Cooler weather is becoming a real possibility in Hodgenville, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for your furnace service. However, it’s possible may not be that cut and dry if your system is climbing up there in age and has been causing difficulties over the last few years.
Furnace replacement is an investment in your home, like many other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should buy that new furnace now or simply get your annual furnace service completed?
At Phelps Heating & Cooling, we know that it can be a tough decision to make, so here are a few tidbits to keep in mind if you’re not sure which way to choose.
1. Furnace Age
This is more than likely the biggest factor in to your decision, as furnace technology has improved quite a few things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it produces. If your system is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be applying that money towards a new system.
However, the typical 12-15 year lifetime of a furnace doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If furnace service has been consistent and it has been properly maintained, you could 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 couple things to keep in mind when comparing 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 contains so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Furnace replacement
- Furnace size will be figured out by the size of your home.
- Cost will differ depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re wanting.
- The higher the AFUE rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you determine 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 option.
Of course, these are only a small number of the variables, but the team at Phelps Heating & Cooling are more than happy to help you determine which furnace is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at 270-358-3167 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.