Toward the end of the life of a furnace, homeowners sometimes spend a lot of time and mental energy wrestling with the decision of when to replace it. Of course, if you could get by for a couple more winters, it would feel like a waste to get a new furnace now. But if you wait until it’s completely broken down, you’ll have to rush the replacement so you don’t freeze!
If only there was some way to know whether you should get rid of that old furnace now or try to keep it running, huh? Well, we’ve got some information for you. There’s one thing that means your furnace absolutely must be replaced. Simple, right? Well, it’s a little more complex than that. We’ll explain.
When to Retire Your Furnace
The one basic rule is that you must retire your furnace when it can no longer reasonably be repaired. This could mean a variety of things, though, so we’ll have to cover some specific details. Here’s what we mean.
- The Furnace Is Impossible to Repair: In many cases, a component is damaged or failing, and it could be replaced. But if the entire furnace is damaged and failing—for example, if the whole furnace cabinet has become corroded—there is nothing that can be done to save it. You’ll need furnace replacement in Navarre, FL.
- The Furnace Can’t Be Made Safe: It’s one thing to have a furnace that runs and creates heat. But it’s equally important to have a furnace that doesn’t cause carbon monoxide poisoning or gas leak explosions. If your technician informs you that they cannot restore your furnace to a condition that allows it to operate safely, it’s time for a new furnace.
- The Furnace Is Too Old: A gas furnace generally runs for about 10-15 years and an electric one for a little longer, as long as they receive annual maintenance. If your furnace is reaching that age, no amount of money spent on repairs will get another five years out of your furnace. You’d be lucky if it lasted for just one more year, so it’s unreasonable to invest much money in keeping it running.
- The Repairs Are Too Costly: One single repair should not cost more than half of the cost of a new furnace. You can also multiply the age of the furnace by the cost of the repair needed. If the result is over 5000, it would be unreasonable to repair it. Do keep in mind, though, that smaller repair costs add up, so if the furnace requires multiple repairs each year, it’s time to consider replacement.
Your Heating Replacement Options
If you’re considering your options before replacement becomes an emergency matter, you’ll have time to determine what heating solution is the best fit for your home, your needs, and your family. Things have changed a lot since you bought that old furnace! Heating systems have become more efficient. The most efficient of all is a heat pump, which can warm your home using a fraction of the energy a furnace does.
Whether you’re thinking about a gas or electric furnace or a heat pump, or transitioning to a ductless system for optimal comfort control and energy savings, a member of our team would be delighted to discuss your options with you.
For professional heating replacement services, look no further than Kool Breeze of Northwest Florida, Inc. Contact us today!