Cooler weather is becoming a real possibility in Cambridge, which means one thing: it’s time to set up your furnace service. However, it may not be that clear cut if your system is beginning to get 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 spring for that new furnace now or simply get your annual furnace service done?
At Pliescott HVAC Services LLC , we know that it can be a difficult decision to make, so here are a few pointers to keep in mind if you’re not sure which path to choose.
1. Furnace Age
This is more than likely the biggest factor in to your decision, as furnace technology has improved a number of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it puts out. If your furnace 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 lifetime of a furnace doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If furnace service has been consistent and it has been correctly maintained, you may be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always variables when it comes to determining 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 multiple estimates to ensure 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 calculated by the size of your home.
- Cost will differ 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 routes, 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 choice.
Of course, these are only a few of the variables, but the experts at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC are more than happy to help you determine which furnace is right when replacement becomes a necessity. Give us a call at 410-228-4822 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.