Drexel Hill can get downright cold in the winter, with January temperatures dropping into the 20s. A properly running furnace is a must for your comfort and safety. Choosing between repairing and replacing your current one is a big decision, especially considering a new unit costs thousands of dollars. Keeping certain factors in mind can help you make an informed decision for your home, needs, and budget.
Consider the Age of the Furnace
Furnaces generally last 15 to 20 years. However, their lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of the initial installation, your usage, and how well it’s maintained. You may not even know some of this information if you purchased your home with the furnace already installed.
The older a furnace gets, the more likely it is that it’ll need repairs. If your furnace starts experiencing multiple problems after it turns 10, it may be more cost-efficient to purchase a new one. If the furnace is younger, repairs can usually allow you to delay a replacement a little longer. However, that’s not always guaranteed.
Evaluate the Cost of Repairs
If your furnace needs repairs, we can give you an estimate of how much they’ll likely cost. You can compare that estimate to the cost of a new furnace. Depending on the comparison and your budget, you may find that one choice makes more financial sense than the other.
Some homeowners attempt to save money on repairs by trying to do them on their own. However, this can be incredibly dangerous. It could result in issues like an electric shock, fire, or explosion. Yes, professional repairs cost money, but you certainly get your money’s worth. You get an expert team that has the knowledge and tools to accomplish tasks safely and accurately. Additionally, we work efficiently. Going the DIY route may take longer, which means being without vital heating when you need it most. Our technicians understand exactly what needs to be done during every project, which helps ensure you’ll have a working furnace much faster.
Check Your Warranty
A furnace warranty typically won’t include a unit replacement, but it usually covers replacing certain parts. Read the warranty to see what’s covered. If you need assistance, our team can help you review the terms.
It’s also important to note that warranties generally have terms stating that professionals, not homeowners, must perform repairs. Attempting them yourself could void the warranty, which means you’ll have to pay for repairs out of pocket.
Contemplate the Frequency of Repairs
Frequent problems are a sign that your furnace is quickly approaching the end of its lifespan. Continuously paying for repairs only temporarily fixes an inevitable situation. Instead of paying for multiple repairs, it may be more beneficial to put that money toward a new furnace.
Think About Safety Concerns
Your well-being is a top priority. It’s crucial not only to have a furnace that heats your home properly but also does so safely. Repairs can temporarily fix issues, but depending on the situation, replacing the unit is usually the safer choice. Additionally, certain problems, such as a cracked heat exchanger, aren’t safe to repair at all and require a replacement. Another serious issue is if you keep noticing persistent gas odors or a yellow burner flame.
Our team can discuss with you the risks of proceeding with repairs compared to replacing the unit. However, keep in mind that upgrading your unit can give you complete peace of mind that your system is functioning safely. Even with a perfect professional repair, it’s easy to still worry.
Assess Comfort and Performance Problems
Your furnace may be running, but that doesn’t mean it’s operating optimally. For example, if it’s short cycling, it’s not completing a full cycle, which means it’s struggling to reach your preferred temperature. Poor airflow, strange odors, uneven heating, and excessive noise are some additional issues. If the furnace’s performance is declining and it’s no longer making your home comfortably warm, it’s likely nearing its end.
These issues won’t improve on their own and may not fully improve even with professional attention. Replacing the unit might be the ideal way to trust you’ll have a perfectly functioning system.
Consider Your Living Plans
How long you’re planning on staying in your current home could impact your choice between replacing or repairing the unit. For example, if you’re staying in your home for the long term, replacing the unit provides comfort and value you can enjoy. If you’re thinking of putting your home on the market, repairs may be more practical and cost-efficient.
However, it’s also not that simple. Many prospective homebuyers love the idea of moving into a home where they need to make as few changes as possible. This is especially the case for costly ones, like replacing the furnace. Upgrading the furnace before you put your home up for sale could make your property look more appealing. It may also indicate that your home is well-maintained. Should you decide to take this approach, you can include the cost of the new furnace in the overall sale price. Make sure you also tout it as a major perk.
Check Your Current Budget
Your current budget may play a major role in whether you can repair or replace your furnace. However, there are other aspects to consider along with your budget and the cost of a new furnace. For example, you can contact O’Brien Heating & Air Conditioning to learn more about any current furnace specials we may be running. Additionally, we offer financing on approved credit. You might feel that a new furnace is out of reach with your current budget, but that may not necessarily be the case.
Think About the Time of Year
It usually starts getting chilly in Drexel Hill during October and November, and the brutal cold approaches quickly. If it’s already deep into the fall and you can’t get a new system at this time, repairs are a good alternative. Being without a functioning heating system isn’t safe or comfortable. You could always replace your furnace in the future, but it’s crucial to make sure you have heat in the present.
Look Over Your Utility Bills
Your utility bills tell a story about how well your heating system is functioning. If they’re increasing for what seems like no reason, it’s usually an indicator that there’s something wrong with your system. Continuously paying higher utility bills throughout winter likely isn’t an appealing prospect. This is especially true if you consider that you could pay lower utility bills with a new heating system. Modern models are more energy efficient than their older counterparts.
Seek Help Today
Don’t wait until the cold weather arrives to choose between repairing or replacing your furnace. Deciding as soon as possible ensures you have reliable heating for the coldest months. O’Brien Heating & Air Conditioning in Drexel Hill, PA, provides dependable furnace repairs, installations, and maintenance. Request service today via our website or call to speak to a team member.