Furnaces play a pivotal role in maintaining home comfort, especially during the winter. Over time, however, they deteriorate, which may prompt you to wonder whether it’s better to opt for repairs or consider replacement.
Decisions surrounding heating systems can have lasting ramifications, which is why we’ve created this guide to help homeowners make an educated and informed decision.
Remember, though, while our guide aims to equip you with essential knowledge, it’s always best to consult a professional HVAC expert for personalized advice.
Signs that you need furnace repair or replacement
Determining whether your furnace needs a simple heating repair or outright replacement is dependent on certain signs you may come across. If you notice any of these signs your furnace needs to be replaced, it’s advisable to consult with an HVAC professional for further guidance.
- Rising energy bills: If you notice an increase in your energy bills without any changes in your usage patterns, this could be an indication that your furnace is losing efficiency
- Inconsistent heating: If you notice that some rooms in your house feel too warm while others are too chilly, it might indicate a problem with your furnace
- Unusual noises: As furnaces get older (particularly gas ones), they tend to produce noise. So, if you start hearing sounds like rattling, popping, humming, or screeching coming from your furnace, it’s probably a good idea to reach out to an expert for assistance
- Decreased air quality: An increase in the amount of dust, dirt, soot, or rust particles in your home could be a sign that your furnace is not effectively cleaning the air
- Health problems: If you find yourself experiencing health issues such as headaches, burning sensations in the nose or eyes, nausea or feeling disoriented, it could be due to a malfunctioning unit
The differences between furnace repair and replacement
Understanding the differences between furnace repair and replacement can help homeowners make an informed decision on how to handle a faulty heating system.
Furnace repair
Furnace repair offers a few benefits over replacements.
For one, it’s incredibly cost-effective. Repairing a furnace is often less expensive than replacing it entirely, especially if the issue is minimal. It’s also a quick solution. Repairs can often be carried out quickly, restoring heat to your home in no time.
The repair process entails the following:
- Professional evaluation: An HVAC technician will assess the condition of your unit through a furnace inspection to accurately diagnose the issue
- Evaluation feedback: The expert will then offer feedback, providing recommendations on the best course of action. If the problem is minor and can be resolved through a repair, they may suggest proceeding with that solution
- Repair work: Following their assessment, the HVAC professional will continue with the repairs. This could involve replacing components, cleaning the system, or making adjustments to the settings
Furnace replacement
Furnace replacement may seem like a more significant investment compared to repair, but it also offers several benefits that make it a worthwhile option for some homeowners.
Newer furnace models are designed to be more energy-efficient, resulting in lower utility bills and reduced environmental impact. The overall savings can offset the initial cost of replacement, saving money long-term.
With a new furnace, homeowners can also expect more reliable and consistent heating throughout their homes. This can help eliminate hot or cold spots and ensure everyone stays comfortable no matter the weather outside
As furnaces age, they’re more likely to require frequent repairs and eventually break down altogether. By replacing an old unit with a new one, homeowners can enjoy greater peace of mind knowing their heating system is reliable and less likely to fail
The furnace replacement process typically involves similar steps with assessment and evaluation feedback, with these additional steps:
- Selecting a new furnace: If replacement is advised, the homeowner will then need to select a new furnace that meets their home’s heating needs and budget
- Heating installation: The HVAC technician will install the new furnace, ensuring it’s properly connected and functioning correctly
- Disposal of old unit: The old furnace will be safely removed and disposed of by the technician
Factors to consider when repairing or replacing
When making the decision of whether to repair or replace your unit, here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Age of furnace: If your furnace is relatively new, opting for repairs is probably the best choice. However, if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, investing in a model could prove more cost-effective over time
- Frequency of repairs: Although occasional repairs are common, if your furnace frequently requires attention and fixes, it might be more financially sensible to replace it entirely
- Energy efficiency: Over time, a furnace’s efficiency can decline, resulting in higher energy bills. If you notice that your system isn’t as efficient as before, it may be worth considering an upgrade to an energy-efficient model
Need furnace repair or replacement? Hurliman can help!
Deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace relies on several factors. While fixing smaller issues or newer furnaces can be cost-effective, replacing outdated systems that frequently malfunction or consume excessive energy might be a wiser investment.
Keeping up with regular maintenance can significantly enhance efficiency and prolong the life of your furnace. In the end, seeking advice from an experienced HVAC professional is the best approach to make an informed decision.
Why take chances with your comfort? If you have any doubts about the condition of your
furnace, get in touch with a professional at Hurliman Heating and Air Conditioning for a thorough assessment.
Contact us today to ensure you and your family stay warm!
