Cooler weather is becoming more and more of a possibility in Wisconsin Rapids, which means one thing: it’s time to set up your furnace service. However, it’s possible may not be that straightforward if your system is beginning to get up there in age and has been causing problems over the last few years.
Furnace replacement is an investment in your home, like most other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should buy that new furnace now or arrange to get your annual furnace service handled?
At Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc, we know that it can be a hard decision to make, so here are a few tidbits 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 number of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it produces. If your furnace is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be applying that money towards a new system.
However, the typical 12-15 year lifespan of a furnace doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If furnace service has been scheduled regularly and it has been properly maintained, you may be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always unknowns when it comes to determining the cost of replacing versus having furnace service and repairs done, but there are a number of things to keep in mind when considering the two.
Furnace service
- Get multiple estimates to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty expires and note what it covers so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Furnace replacement
- Furnace size will be determined by the size of your home.
- Cost will differ depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re looking for.
- 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 small number of the variables, but the experts at Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc are more than happy to help you choose which furnace is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at 715-301-0256 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.