Cooler weather is becoming a realistic possibility in Beckley and Mount Hope, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for your furnace service. However, it’s realistic that it may not be that clear cut if your system is starting to get up there in age and has been causing difficulties over the last few years.
Furnace replacement is an investment in your home, like most other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should buy that new furnace now or just get your annual furnace service done?
At Appalachian Heating, we know that it can be a difficult decision to make, so here are a few tidbits to keep in mind if you’re unsure which way to choose.
1. Furnace Age
This is probably the biggest factor in to your decision, as furnace technology has improved a number of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it gives off. If your furnace is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be putting that money towards a new system.
However, the average 12-15 year lifetime of a furnace doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If furnace service has been scheduled regularly and it has been properly maintained, you might be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always unique circumstances when it comes to figuring out the cost of replacing versus having furnace service and repairs done, but there are a number of things to keep in mind when assessing the two.
Furnace service
- Get a few estimates to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty runs out and note what it includes so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Furnace replacement
- Furnace size will be calculated by the size of your home.
- Cost will fluctuate depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re searching for.
- The higher the AFUE rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you figure out the costs of both options, keep this helpful tip in mind: if your furnace service and repair is going to cost 1/3 or more of the cost of a new furnace and your system is between 12-15 years old, furnace replacement may be the better long-term solution.
Of course, these are only a few of the variables, but the pros at Appalachian Heating are more than happy to help you choose which furnace is right when replacement becomes a necessity. Give us a call at 304-707-0600 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.