Should I Repair or Replace My Furnace?

As cold as it may get during Chicago winters, it’s still cozy indoors. But when your home’s heating system fails to perform to your expectations, it’s essential to address the issue before it leaves you in the cold. Regular furnace maintenance goes a long way toward preventing costly repairs, but even the most reliable furnace can run into issues from time to time.

When you actually do run into heating trouble, how do you know if it’s time to replace the furnace or repair it? The first thing to consider is the age of the appliance. Furnaces have a life expectancy of about 15 to 20 years. If you have issues with a furnace that was installed 15 years ago, replacing it will most likely be your best option.

Even if it’s only 12 years old, a replacement could save you the cost of future repairs. Get a quote for the repair and think about how much you’ve spent on repairs in the past. If the repair is going to cost you 1/3 – 1/2 the cost of a new furnace, replacing it makes much more sense.

Modern furnaces are far more energy-efficient than older models. So lower energy bills can offset the cost of a replacement by at least a little. A new furnace might also qualify you for tax credits or rebates. Check with your local utility company and this online Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency for details.

If your gas furnace is giving off carbon monoxide that’s a sure-fire sign that it needs to be replaced. Carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms including headaches, nausea, disorientation, and even death. If the flame on your furnace burner burns yellow instead of blue, the furnace is emitting carbon monoxide. If you see a yellow flame, leave your home and call the fire department right away. Installing a carbon monoxide sensor near the furnace is a great way to prevent such emergencies.

Lastly, if your planning on moving within the next few years when your furnace acts up, a replacement might make sense. Although furnace age isn’t the first thing homebuyers check, a new, efficient furnace could sweeten the deal. You can show off your low heating bill to potential buyers while assuring them that they’ll have reliable heat for years to come.

So if you’re wondering if you should repair or replace your furnace, ask yourself a few questions. Was the furnace installed more than 15 years ago? How much will the repair cost and how much have they cost in the past? Is the furnace emitting carbon monoxide? And finally, am I planning on moving soon?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s most likely time for a new furnace. Blue Frost Heating & Cooling can install a replacement or provide furnace repair in Chicago, IL and the surrounding areas. Give us a call at (630) 444-0860 for a free estimate to put your heating woes behind you today!