When to Repair or Replace Your Furnace
At Squeaks Plumbing Heating & Air in Denver, CO, we understand that deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace can be a tough call. After all, your furnace is the heart of your home during those chilly Denver winters! So, let’s dive into some key factors that will help you make the best decision for your comfort and your wallet.
1. Age of the Furnace
The first thing you’ll want to consider is the age of your furnace. Now, here’s the deal—most gas furnaces are built to last around 15 to 20 years, while electric furnaces can hang in there for up to 30 years with proper care. But how do you know how old your furnace really is?
Look for a sticker or label on the unit that shows the installation or manufacture date. If that’s not visible, jot down the model and serial numbers and give us a call—we can help you figure it out! If your furnace is getting up there in age, especially past that 15-20 year mark for gas units, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement.
2. Condition of the Furnace
Let’s talk about the condition of your furnace. If you’ve been keeping up with regular maintenance (and we hope you have!), your furnace should be running smoothly with just the occasional need for a repair. But if maintenance has been a bit of an afterthought, your furnace might not last as long.
Take a peek at your furnace—do you see any rust or corrosion? That’s a red flag that it might be time to start considering a new unit. Remember, a well-maintained furnace should last its full lifespan, but neglect can cut that time short.
3. Frequency of Repairs
Here’s a question we often ask our customers: How often has your furnace been acting up lately? If you’ve had to call us for repairs more than once in the past year or two, that’s a sign that your furnace might be on its last legs.
Even if the individual repairs don’t break the bank, those costs can add up over time. Instead of pouring money into frequent fixes, it might be smarter (and less stressful) to invest in a new furnace that will give you peace of mind.
4. Cost of Repairs vs. Replacement
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty—money. When faced with a repair, you should weigh the cost of that repair against the cost of replacing your furnace. A good rule of thumb is the 50% rule: If the repair costs more than half the price of a new furnace, it’s probably time to replace.
Or, you can use what we call the “5000 rule.” Multiply the estimated repair cost by the age of your furnace. If the result is over 5000, replacing is usually the smarter choice. For example, a $500 repair on an eight-year-old furnace gives you 4000—not too bad. But that same repair on a twelve-year-old furnace gives you 6000, which means it’s likely time for a new furnace.
5. Energy Efficiency Considerations
Furnaces aren’t getting any younger—or more efficient. Older furnaces just don’t perform as well as today’s models, which means they use more energy (and cost you more on your heating bills).
Take a look at your current furnace’s efficiency rating and compare it to the newer models. You might be surprised at how much you could save by upgrading to a more efficient unit. Plus, with energy costs always on the rise, those savings can add up quickly!
6. Performance, Comfort, and Safety
We know how important it is for your home to feel just right. If your furnace isn’t keeping your home as warm as it used to, or if you’re noticing cold spots, poor air quality, or even dryness in the air, your furnace might not be performing at its best anymore.
Safety is another biggie—especially when it comes to something as serious as a cracked heat exchanger, which can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks. If you’ve got any concerns about safety, it’s definitely time to think about a replacement.
Expert Consultation and Professional Evaluation
Still on the fence? That’s okay—we’re here to help. At Squeaks Plumbing Heating & Air, we believe that the more you know, the better decisions you’ll make. That’s why we recommend having one of our qualified technicians come out to assess your furnace. We’ll give you an honest evaluation of its condition and help you understand your repair and replacement options.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions—whether it’s about the age, condition, efficiency, or even the cost of repairs. We’re here to ensure you’re comfortable with your decision and happy with your heating system for years to come.
Making the Right Decision for Your Home
So, what’s the bottom line? When it comes to deciding between repairing or replacing your furnace, it’s all about weighing the age, condition, repair costs, and efficiency. By considering all these factors, you can make a smart, long-term investment that keeps your home cozy and your energy bills low.
And remember, timely replacement can save you from the headache of emergency repairs in the dead of winter. Plus, a new furnace means better efficiency, improved comfort, and maybe even a little extra cash in your pocket each month.
Contact Squeaks Plumbing Heating & Air, Your Trusted HVAC Expert!
If you’re ready to chat about your furnace options or just need some advice, give us a call at Squeaks Plumbing Heating & Air. We’re always here to help keep your Denver home warm and comfortable!
Before you go, if you’re interested in learning more about keeping your home in tip-top shape, check out our ultimate guide on preventing home water damage—a must-read for every homeowner. And while you’re at it, don’t miss our deep dive into the cost of an electrical panel upgrade to see if it’s worth the investment. For more tips and expert advice, feel free to explore our other blogs!
