Repair or Replace Your Furnace

With the fall season rapidly approaching, you may wonder whether you should repair or replace your furnace. Without a visual inspection, we can’t tell you for sure. However, here are two general rules:

• If your furnace is 10 years old or more, it probably needs to be replaced. Modern furnaces are significantly more efficient than their outdated counterparts, and energy prices remain high.
• If your repairs are beginning to add up, do the math. Take a look at the repair invoices for the last few years, combined with the new repair estimate provided by your HVAC contractor. If the total amounts to about 50 percent of the replacement cost, a replacement will be the most cost effective move in the long run.

Here are some other questions we hear regarding furnace replacement.

Can a heat pump replace a furnace?

Yes, it can. But you want to make sure it’s a wise investment. Heat pumps work to both heat and cool the home, but they’re usually recommended for moderate climates. They transfer the heat from the outside air into the home, without the use of a flame. However, in colder winter climates like ours, they may not be as efficient as a furnace. That being said, heat pumps use electricity so if your electricity is cheaper than gas/oil, or you have a green energy source, a heat pump may be a better option.

How long does it take to replace a furnace? How much does furnace replacement cost?

In most cases, it takes a full day to replace a furnace, but that is assuming that your duct system is in good shape and that your venting doesn’t need any major modifications. The cost is completely dependent on the size of your home, the make and model you select, and the labor charges from the HVAC contractor. Always obtain a handful of quotes before deciding on a particular installer.

How long should a furnace last?

Typically, a well-maintained furnace will last about 15 years. They can last longer, but you are usually looking at steeper repair costs.

Considering a furnace replacement for your Griffith home? Contact the HVAC experts at Meyers.