Your furnace is one of the most valuable investments in your home. It keeps your home warm and comfortable during the cooler months.
There are no particular rules when it comes to replacing or repairing. But, there are factors you need to keep in mind before it costs you more or becomes unsafe.
Here are some critical factors to consider when debating whether to repair or replace your heating system.
Age Of The System
The age of a heating system is one of the most significant factors to consider when deciding on a repair or replacement. Furnaces last between 10 to 15 years and provide flexibility on the age factor. Even with proper care and constant maintenance, you should consider a replacement as soon as your furnace reaches 10 years.
You can check the age of your furnace by looking at the installation label. The installation label has the exact date and time of manufacture and installation.
If it is not indicated, you can reach out to the manufacturer with the serial number for help.
Constantly High Heating Bills and Inefficiency
Every proper home environment needs to have a safe and energy-efficient heating system. Your furnace should serve your home without necessarily consuming large amounts of energy.
Unknown to most people, higher bills are not often caused by a rise in the cost of energy. Your heating system is prone to lose efficiency without proper maintenance or with age. As a consequence, the furnace will need to run longer to provide enough heat, causing higher energy bills.
Instead of high energy bills every month, buying a new and more energy-saving and efficient furnace is better. Compare your recent energy bills with bills from the previous years, and if you notice a significant difference, then a replacement is due.
Frequent, Obnoxious Repair Needs
Apart from the annual maintenance procedures on your furnace, it will also require major repairs over time, especially as it ages.
Are you calling for heating service in Meridian, ID, every few weeks or months? When minor repairs become frequent, the maintenance cost goes up, which could be a sign of a bigger problem.
An Expensive Repair
The cost of repair depends on the model, brand, and warranties. On some occasions, the repair cost may be too high (almost similar to or more than the cost of replacement). If that is the case, the rule is simple; you should consider topping up and getting a replacement. You could sell your current furnace for parts and use the money to get a new heating system.
Most people try to avoid getting a new furnace for as long as possible. This could be because of the assumption that replacement costs are way higher than repair costs. On the other hand, some go straight ahead to replace when a repair is better.
It is imperative to evaluate the above factors to understand your options thoroughly. If you are unsure and need expert advice, Idaho Heating & Air can help you with your next replacement or repair. Call us today!