If the furnace is less than 15 years old and fixing it costs less than half the unit’s purchase price, you should repair the furnace. If your furnace is 15 years old, has frequent problems, or requires expensive repairs, you should replace your furnace. Doing so may cost more upfront but can help you save money on repairs and energy costs down the road.  When deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace, you need to consider more than just the cost of the job. You also need to factor in reliability, safety, efficiency, and home value. Virginia winters are cold and last several months. As such, base your decision on what provides long-term comfort and safety for your family.

Repair Your Furnace If:

• Your furnace is less than 15 years old.
• Your furnace is still under warranty.
• The cost of the repair is less than half the unit’s purchase price.
• The repair provides a long-term solution.
• The repair helps your furnace run more efficiently.
• You have significant perks or discounts under your current HVAC Maintenance Plan.
• You plan to relocate within the next two to five years.

A reputable HVAC technician in Virginia can solve most furnace problems with a simple repair or part replacement. Today’s models are more energy efficient, require less maintenance, and last longer than older models. So, repairs should be minimal and more affordable during the first 10 to 15  years of the furnace’s performance.  When scheduling a furnace repair, get an estimate from the technician. Ask questions about the pros and cons of a repair versus a replacement to explore all your options. Find out if the repair will solve the problem or just put a band-aid on it. Understand the purpose of the repair and how it will improve your furnace. 

Replace Your Furnace If:

• Your furnace is more than 15 years old.
• Your furnace has chronic problems.
• The cost of repair is more than half the unit’s purchase price.
• The repair does not improve the furnace’s performance.
• The repair does not improve your furnace’s efficiency.
• You plan to stay in your house for another five to ten years.

If the idea of replacing your furnace brings on feelings of anxiety and dread, you’re not alone. Many homeowners cannot afford a new unit or don’t want to spend the money to replace their current HVAC. A new furnace is a significant investment. However, as an investment, it does add resale value to your home with an ROI of 20 to 30 percent. A new furnace can also save you between $1,000 and $1,500 in energy savings over a 10- to 15-year period. Plus, you have peace of mind knowing that your family is safe and warm during the winter. Few things are as frustrating as scheduling an emergency furnace repair on the weekend in the middle of the night. 

What to Consider When Choosing Between a Furnace Repair or Replacement

Furnace Age

A well-maintained furnace lasts 10 to 15 years. Once the furnace surpasses the 15-year mark, it will show signs of wear. You can piecemeal the repairs as you go. However, furnace repairs will become more frequent and expensive. 

Furnace Condition

If you inherit a furnace that a previous homeowner neglected or abused, trying to repair it may be a waste of time. A furnace inspection may reveal numerous problems that cost you thousands of dollars to fix. Your best option is to remove the old unit and replace it with a new furnace that provides reliable performance. 

How Long You Stay in the House

Are you planning to stay in the house for several years, or will you relocate? If you plan to relocate, you may want to stick it out and repair the furnace as necessary. A furnace replacement may be a better option if you plan to stay in the house for another five to ten years. Remember that a new furnace is an investment into your home’s market value regardless of when you move.

Furnace Maintenance: The Best Way to Avoid a Repair or Replacement

No matter how you look at it, addressing furnace issues can cost you thousands of dollars out-of-pocket. The best way to avoid furnace repairs or an expensive replacement is to schedule routine preventative furnace maintenance. Furnace maintenance offers several benefits.

• You avoid (or at least delay) costly furnace repairs.
• You avoid a premature furnace replacement.
• Your monthly energy costs or lower. 
• Your furnace keeps your family warm during the winter.

In the debate between furnace repair and replacement, the best answer is furnace maintenance. Scheduling an annual furnace inspection can reveal small issues you can address before they turn into expensive repairs.  A lot of HVAC companies in Virginia offer a maintenance plan that helps you prepare your furnace for the winter before the cold season arrives. Maintenance Plans reduce the cost of maintenance, minimize repairs, and give you perks on other HVAC services. If you don’t want to spend the money replacing your furnace prematurely, sign up for a maintenance plan or schedule annual routine maintenance during the fall season.

Schedule a Furnace Inspection From Cardinal

Keep your family safe and warm this winter. Winterize your heating system by scheduling your home’s furnace inspection and maintenance. Cardinal Plumbing, Heating, and Air can help you with our pre-winter furnace checklist. Contact us today for an in-home assessment. Fill out our contact form or call us today to schedule HVAC Services in Virginia.