Do you need a new furnace? That’s a question that many homeowners begin asking themselves right about the time the leaves start dropping in the fall.

The answer to this question isn’t always simple, but there are some clues (offered by your furnace) that can help you decide whether it’s out with the old and in with the new.

When should you repair vs. replace your system? In this post, we answer that pressing question. You may be surprised by the answers.

How Well Have You Maintained Your Furnace??

If you’re trying to figure out whether you need a new furnace, first think about your maintenance habits. Do you stay up-to-date with routine service or wait for a furnace issue to call your HVAC company?

Modern heating and cooling systems are designed to be durable. That doesn’t mean you can skip regular maintenance. There will come the point when parts start wearing down, sometimes quicker than you expect.

If you’re dealing with one or more furnace failures and you haven’t invested in maintenance, a new furnace could be in the near future.

The Aging Furnace

No matter how good you are to your HVAC system, age will catch up with it, and you’ll need a furnace replacement.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) sets HVAC equipment and components standards. According to their data, a gas-fired furnace should have a median service life of about 18 years.

At around ten years, parts begin wearing out. A routine maintenance plan can help you maximize the service life of your furnace, but it’s wise also to have a plan to replace it with a new system.

Are You Spending More on Furnace Repairs Each Year?

If you keep good maintenance records, you should know how often you repair your furnace. If you’re only making repairs every few years, it likely doesn’t make sense to invest in new equipment.

When you notice that repairs occur more frequently, or if you’re making the same repairs often, you’ll want to consider a furnace replacement. It depends on how much it costs to repair vs. replace.

Also, keep in mind that new furnaces are extremely energy-efficient today. A new heating system may save money over time by lowering your utility bills.

Listen to Your HVAC Technician

When your HVAC tech performs routine maintenance, they look for worn out components. They also test the efficiency of the furnace. Your HVAC service provider is the best resource for helping you decide if you can repair your furnace.

A qualified technician can also alert you when your furnace is nearing its retirement stage. If new furnace installation is in order, your HVAC technician will provide you with written recommendations for new equipment.

Ready for a New Furnace?

After considering your maintenance habits, the age of your furnace, the cost of repairs, and the advice of your HVAC specialist, you should have a good idea about which direction you should take.

Whether it’s time to repair a failing system or you need a new furnace, reach out and talk to the experts at AccuTemp Heating & Air Conditioning. With almost 30 years of HVAC experience, we can help you choose the best furnace for your home.