Cooler weather is becoming a real possibility in Libertyville, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for your furnace service. However, it may not be that cut and dry if your system is climbing up there in age and has been causing difficulties 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 buy that new furnace now or just get your annual furnace service done?
At TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we know that it can be a difficult decision to make, so here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re unsure which path to choose.
1. Furnace Age
This is most likely the biggest factor in to your decision, as furnace technology has improved a lot of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it produces. If your system is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be putting that money towards a new system.
However, the average 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 identifying the cost of replacing versus having furnace service and repairs done, but there are a couple 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 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 vary depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re wanting.
- 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 few of the variables, but the experts at TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical are more than happy to help you choose which furnace is right when replacement becomes a necessity. Give us a call at 847-362-0262 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.