How to Know When It’s Time for a New Furnace
Furnace replacement is a big decision. Not only is there a significant cost involved, but an installation project also takes time. Before you commit yourself to replacing your heating unit, you’ll want to make sure it’s the right decision. Weighing several factors can help you figure out whether furnace replacement is the best choice for your home.
Age
Most homeowners get at least 15 years’ worth of use out of their furnaces. After that, it may be time to start thinking about a replacement. It doesn’t mean that you have to automatically replace your furnace at that point. In fact, many units are good for 20 to 30 years. However, once you reach 15 years, an upgrade should be on your radar, and you may want to start saving for a new unit. Also, if you start to experience furnace troubles around that time, a replacement could be your best course of action.
Keep in mind, also, that the longevity of your furnace often relates to how well you’ve cared for it over the years. Annual maintenance can go a long way toward extending your system’s lifespan. If you haven’t been good about scheduling regular tune-ups, then you may be due for a replacement in less than 15 years.
Major Repairs
All furnaces need some work now and then. Many times, a small repair project can get your furnace as good as new again.
There may come a time, though, when your system’s repair needs are not so small. When that happens, you may be faced with a choice between going through with the repair and opting for a replacement. The cost of each project can help you decide what to do. Often, if the repair will cost less than half of what a new system would cost, then the repair is a good option. However, if the repairs will be more than half the price of a new furnace, then you may want to move forward with a replacement.
Safety
Some furnace problems will simply leave you with a chilly house. Others can be downright hazardous for your health. Broken furnaces can leak carbon monoxide into your home. You won’t be able to see it or smell it, but its presence can be deadly. At the very least, carbon monoxide can make you sick.
Carbon monoxide leaks often occur when a furnace has a broken part. For example, there may be problems with the flue, the blower, or the ducts. Any of those issues have the potential to allow carbon monoxide to escape.
One of the most likely causes of a carbon monoxide problem is a cracked heat exchanger. If that happens, it’s time for a new furnace. Your HVAC company is likely to insist on replacing the unit instead of repairing it. That’s the only sure way to fully resolve the problem.
New Technology
Furnace manufacturers are continually updating their products. If you want the best in modern furnace technology, then it’s worth upgrading to a new unit.
In particular, you can benefit from increased energy efficiency. New furnace models are quite a bit more efficient than their older counterparts. Your new unit may be better for the planet, and it could also help you save money on your power bills.
Professional Recommendation
Even when you consider all of the above factors, you may have a hard time deciding whether to move forward with a furnace replacement. Fortunately, you don’t have to make the decision entirely on your own. You can count on your heating technician to help you figure out the best course of action.
A professional can draw on years of experience to determine whether it’s worth continuing to use an older system. You’ll gain valuable insight and personalized advice as you talk to one of our techs about the pros and cons of repairs and replacements. If you are leaning toward a replacement, the tech can also suggest furnace models that would work well for your home.
JAMCO Heating & Air Conditioning is the company to choose for heating installations in the Deptford area. We are a Lennox Premier Dealer, and we perform air conditioner installations as well. You can count on us for furnace, and AC repairs and maintenance for all makes and models. We even work with ductless mini-splits. Our NATE-certified technicians are capable of handling both residential and commercial heating and cooling projects.
Make a call to JAMCO Heating & Air Conditioning to learn more about our HVAC services in the Deptford area.
