Repair or replace your furnace?
It’s time to think about your heating system
It’s a tough call trying to decide whether to repair or replace your furnace. While it can seem less expensive to simply fix the broken part, it can actually end up costing you more over time. You run the risk of additional breakdowns from other aging parts, or even worse, a complete system failure. In fact, because this is such a common occurrence, a chart has been created to help technicians and homeowners alike determine whether or not to repair or replace heating equipment. The chart is based on the repair costs in relation to the age of the furnace. It gives clear direction to people who are unsure if it’s worth it to put money into aging equipment.
The right time to upgrade your furnace is now
Furnaces work hardest when it’s coldest and this is what causes them to break down. Of all the furnaces we’ve repaired and replaced, we’ve seen that, more often than not, the breakdown happens when you need the furnace most. Let me paint a picture for you, it’s Christmas morning and it’s -18 degrees Celsius outside. When you and your family get up the house is freezing! Your furnace stopped working overnight. Now you need to get an HVAC company out, but it’s a holiday so it’s harder to get a technician out to your house, not to mention, considerably more expensive. Doesn’t sound like a very happy holiday at home. That’s why it’s best to be proactive in both monitoring and maintaining your comfort equipment. If you suspect that your furnace is reaching the end of its useable lifespan, then it’s time to think about replacing it before you breakdown and end up in the situation I just described. It’s best to start getting quotes before heating season starts. This allows you time to look at all your options and get it ordered before it gets too cold.
Furnace breakdown warning signs to watch for
There are a few signs that you should be watching for in regards to your furnace being near the end of its lifespan. This way you can get ahead of having to determine whether you repair or replace your furnace. The following should be taken as a warning that it’s time to look into a replacement:
- Loud noises
While it’s normal for your furnace to make noise while it’s running, new or sudden noises are not. If your equipment gets loud suddenly or starts making an unfamiliar sound, it’s likely indicative of a problem going on inside the furnace. There are many different reasons for this but all of them should be checked out.
- Detecting carbon monoxide in your home
Any amount of carbon monoxide should be taken very seriously as it can be fatal. If your carbon monoxide alarm detects any amount you should shut off your furnace and call an HVAC specialist right away. It could be very likely that you need to replace your equipment. A trained HVAC technician can find the cause and let you know what steps need to be taken.
- Higher energy bills
A furnace that is decreasing in efficiency will use more energy and therefore cost you more. A decrease in efficiency means your furnace is not functioning properly and likely heading towards a breakdown. It would be a great time to proactively get a quote on a new unit so you are not stuck without any heat once it gets cold.
If you are experiencing any of these problems, or you’re thinking that it’s time to consider a new heating system, give us a call. Our technicians are great at diagnosing the problem and giving you recommendations on whether to repair or replace the furnace based on their findings.
Get in Touch With Doyle Home Services Today!
Thanks so much for sending Jason and Dan for this task. Both were capable and courteous and completed the job in short order.
— Al, Peterborough, ON
Just wanted to let you know that Kirk was at my home to correct a glitch with our tankless water heater - gotta' say, couldn't be happier.
— Mac & Diane, Peterborough, ON
Doyle sent two plumbers to my house to fix a leak in my kitchen. The best work I’ve ever seen, professional and courteous.
— Charles, Durham, ON
We had Doyle’s come to fix our furnace. The office staff are great, the guys work long hours so people like us have heat and don’t freeze!
— Debbie, Peterborough, ON
I’ve struggled with my air conditioning unit at my business for 5 years. The guys at Doyle were helpful and brainstormed several solutions. In the end, they fixed it!
— Becki, Cobourg, ON
AMAZING service… Starting with the first visit when the quote was provided to the QUICK follow up and scheduling of my appointment. Great work.
— Jeffery, Oshawa, ON
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