One of the worst things during the winter is waking up to a chilly home. You know right away when your furnace has stopped working when the temperature is 50°F but set to 70°F. Time to call a furnace technician! The big question is how much is this going to cost and is it going to require extensive repairs? Does your HVAC system require a repair or is it time to replace the whole system? Reynolds Air and Heat helps homeowners answer this question every day and can guide you in the right direction.
How Old is Your Furnace?
Furnaces have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years or longer, but older furnaces are far less efficient. Their parts are harder to find, requiring more time and adding to the cost of the repair. If your furnace is only a few years old, then a warranty may still cover certain repairs or even a new furnace. Keep in mind, newer furnaces have a higher efficiency rating and will cost less to operate, saving you more in your monthly utility bills. Ask your technician for more information during your semi-annual HVAC system inspection.
Is the Furnace Causing Safety Issues?
Inside of a furnace is a heat exchanger. Over time this part often develops rust holes or cracks that may allow carbon monoxide gas to leak into your home. This can be deadly, which is why furnace technicians check for this right away. A crack means you need a new heat exchanger. Due to the cost of this part and repair, you could have bought an entirely new system.
The heat exchanger isn’t the only part that costs more to repair than replace. Your HVAC contractor provides you with all the information you need to weigh the pros and cons when it comes to high price repair items.
When Should you Continue to Repair Your Furnace?
Obviously, if repair costs significantly less than HVAC system replacement you choose to repair, but there are a few other good reasons to hold out, even when you know you will eventually need to replace your furnace. If you are planning on a major home remodel, then you may want to wait. A new furnace can require major upgrades to your ductwork or electrical system, especially if you live in an older home. You may also wait if you are planning on moving soon.
Reynold’s Air and Heat is located in Melbourne, FL. We service all of Brevard County with both HVAC repair and replacement options. Give us a call to schedule an appointment to learn more and don’t forget to ask about our military and senior discounts.