Cooler weather is becoming a real possibility in Wausau, which means one thing: it’s time to schedule your furnace service. However, it’s realistic that it may not be that clear cut if your system is beginning to get up there in age and has been causing issues over the last few years.
Furnace replacement is an investment in your home, like nearly all other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should spring for that new furnace now or arrange to get your annual furnace service done?
At Gilray Heating and Cooling, we know that it can be a hard decision to make, so here are a few pointers to keep in mind if you’re not sure which route 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 gives off. If your equipment is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be setting aside that money towards a new system.
However, the typical 12-15 year lifespan of a furnace doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If furnace service has been routine 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 unknowns when it comes to identifying 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 expires and note what it covers 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 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 calculate 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 Gilray Heating and Cooling are more than happy to help you decide which furnace is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at 715-301-0727 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.