How to Know If You Should Replace or Repair Your Furnace

Knowing If You Should Replace or Repair Your FurnaceHave you ever found yourself stuck between a rock and a hard place, deciding between replacing or repairing your furnace? This dilemma hits close to home, and it’s a big deal for homeowners as this decision directly impacts their comfort, safety, and wallet.

Maintaining your furnace is key to keeping it running efficiently and safely, but there comes a point when continued patches may no longer be the best option. Knowing when to repair your furnace or replace it can help you make a well-informed decision that suits your needs.

What Is a Furnace Lifespan?

Furnaces usually last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. But how long yours lasts depends on a bunch of factors like the model, how often you use it, and (drumroll, please) maintenance. Giving your furnace some TLC, including routine checks, cleaning, and timely repairs, can really stretch its lifespan.

With good maintenance, a furnace can run efficiently for many years, but wear and tear will eventually take its toll.

As your furnace gets older, you might notice it acting up more often or your energy bills creeping up. Determine whether to repair or replace it can be challenging, as each option has its own set of costs and benefits that you should carefully weigh.

Key Considerations Before Deciding

Before choosing to replace or repair your furnace, you should assess the specific problem you’re dealing with. Some issues may be easily fixed, while others could indicate that a full replacement is needed. Below are common furnace issues that could help guide your decision:

  • Blown Motor: This can be a big repair, but if your furnace is still relatively new and in good condition, fixing the motor might be cheaper than buying a new one.
  • Broken Thermostat: Often, this is a simple and inexpensive fix that doesn’t justify a full furnace replacement.
  • Uneven Heating or Cooling: This issue could be caused by various factors, including dirty filters, ductwork problems, or the furnace throwing in the towel.
  • Clogged or Dirty Filters: Regular maintenance can prevent this problem, but if it persists, it might indicate a larger issue.
  • Cracked Heat Exchanger: This is a serious problem that often requires a furnace replacement for safety reasons.
  • Overcycling: If your furnace frequently turns on and off, it could be an issue with the thermostat, filters, or the furnace itself.
  • Switch Malfunctions: While this might be a minor issue, if it happens frequently, it could indicate a bigger problem with the furnace’s electrical system.

Why You Should Replace Your Furnace

1. Carbon Monoxide Leaks

One of the most dangerous problems with an old or malfunctioning furnace is carbon monoxide (CO) leaks. CO is a odorless. colorless gas that can be deadly. If your furnace is leaking CO, it’s a serious health hazard that requires immediate attention.

A cracked heat exchanger often causes CO leaks, and in such cases, replacing the furnace is usually the safest and best option. If CO is detected in your home, turn off your furnace, ventilate the area, and call a professional immediately.

2. Old Age

Furnaces over 15 years old are often more prone to breakdowns and inefficiency. While repairs might seem like a cheaper option, they can add up over time, making replacement a more cost-effective choice.

As a general rule, if the repair costs exceed 30% of the replacement cost, it’s wise to invest in a new furnace, which will be more efficient and reliable.

3. Persistent Loud and Violent Noises

Loud noises such as banging, screeching, or rattling often indicate serious issues with your furnace, such as overheating or internal damage.

While some noises might be due to simple issues like loose parts, persistent and violent noises, such as if your furnace is auditioning for a metal band, are often a sign that the furnace is on its last legs. In older furnaces, these noises typically suggest that replacement is necessary.

4. High Repair Costs

When repair costs approach 30% of the cost of a new furnace, it’s time to consider replacement. High repair costs, especially for major components like the motor or heat exchanger, often signal that your furnace is reaching the end of its useful life.

5. Uneven Heating or Cooling

If you’re experiencing fluctuating temperatures throughout your home, it could be a sign of a failing furnace. Before jumping to conclusions, check other components like ductwork, filters, and the thermostat.

However, if the furnace is the cause and it’s an older unit, replacement might be the best option.

6. Rising Energy Bills

A furnace that’s no longer operating efficiently will cause your energy bills to increase. If you notice your bills going up faster than a rocket despite consistent usage, it might be time to replace your furnace.

Newer models are far more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run.

Why You Should Repair Your Furnace

1. Planning to Sell Your Home

If you plan to sell your home soon, repairing the furnace might be more cost-effective than replacing it. Even if it’s not brand new, a working furnace is often good enough for potential buyers, especially if it’s in good working condition.

2. Slight Increase in Energy Bills

A slight increase in energy bills doesn’t always mean you need to replace your furnace. Regular maintenance can often resolve these issues. Cleaning or replacing filters, checking the thermostat, and ensuring the ductwork is intact can help restore efficiency without the need for a new furnace.

3. Broken Thermostat

A broken thermostat is a common issue and typically an easy fix. Thermostats can malfunction due to wiring issues, dead batteries, or simply old age.

Before assuming the furnace is the problem, check the thermostat and replace it if necessary.

4. Ductwork Issues Causing Noise

Noise coming from your heating system may not always be the furnace itself. Ductwork issues can cause rattling or banging sounds.

In such cases, the solution might be as simple as adding insulation covers or having a pro, such as the team at Mister Greenway, inspect and repair the ducts.

Why Choosing Mister Greenway to Repair Your Furnace

Deciding whether to replace or repair your furnace requires caution and consideration of various factors, including the age of the furnace, the specific problem, repair costs, and the safety of your home. For older units, especially those over 15 years, replacement is often the cheapest and safest option, particularly when dealing with carbon monoxide risks or significant repairs. On the other hand, minor issues, especially with newer furnaces, can often be resolved with repairs.

For homeowners in Memphis, TN, Mister Greenway Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning offers expert furnace repair services. Our expert technicians are committed to fixing the problem right the first time and can be at your doorstep in under 30 minutes. Whether you need to repair your furnace or a shiny new one, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your home. Call us today!

Helpful Resource:

How to Repair a Gas Furnace in Memphis