As winter in Michigan looms, many Detroit-area homeowners start thinking about their furnace’s efficiency. Fall is a great time to schedule professional furnace services, including inspections and maintenance to make sure your system is ready to keep your home comfortable through the colder months. However, when things aren’t going well with your heating system, you might wonder: Should I repair or replace my furnace?
What Is Furnace Repair?
Heating repair services involve fixing or replacing parts in your unit so that it operates effectively again. Common furnace repairs include:
- Cleaning sensors or clearing lines to reduce buildup or blockages and help the furnace operate efficiently
- Cleaning flame sensors or burners and investigating soot buildup or pilot-light problems in a gas furnace
- Fixing problems with motors, fans or other parts by replacing small components or re-securing loose parts
- Replacing components like igniters, fans or motors when they can’t be repaired or when installing new parts makes more sense
Furnace repair timelines depend on how urgent the repair is, what type of parts you need and how complex the repair is. Some repair jobs are finished the same day, while others take longer if special parts need to be ordered.
What Is Furnace Replacement?
Heating installation services differ from repairs because they involve replacing the entire furnace, not just individual parts. Professional HVAC technicians remove the existing unit, install the new furnace and verify that it operates properly.
Furnace replacement jobs take longer than many repair jobs. A standard installation may take most of a day, while more complex jobs can take longer. Scheduling also depends on equipment and labor availability.
Comparing Options: Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace?
Whether you should get your furnace repaired or replaced before winter depends on:
- How old your system is
- Whether your furnace is sized appropriately for your home
- What needs repair
- How much repairs would cost compared to a new installation
- Your own preferences regarding system features and efficiency
The Work Involved in Repairing or Replacing a Furnace
If your furnace repair is a quick fix, especially one you can do yourself, you’ll likely want to skip a replacement. Before you call in an HVAC professional, check basics such as whether filters need changing or if you can clean up around your furnace or vents.
When furnace issues are more complicated, a professional can inspect your unit and let you know how much time and effort is required.
The Cost of Furnace Replacement vs. Furnace Repair
Once you understand the scope of repair needs, you can compare your furnace repair cost with the cost of furnace replacement, including installation. If repairs could cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, ask how much it would cost to replace your furnace.
When Is a New Furnace Installation the Right Choice?
When to replace a furnace instead of repairing it depends on its condition and the costs involved. Signs it may be time for a new system include:
- Repair costs are half or more of replacement costs. If a single repair is half or more of the cost of a new furnace installation, it may be worth considering replacement, especially if the furnace is older or has needed frequent repairs. Consider that additional repairs could also increase the long-term cost of keeping an older furnace running.
- Your furnace is older than 15 years. Older furnaces may be more expensive or harder to repair due to parts sourcing issues. Newer, high-efficiency models may use less energy, so you may enjoy energy savings with a newer model.
- You’re paying for furnace repairs several times every year. Constant repair needs may be a sign your furnace is nearing the end of its useful life. Getting ahead of that issue by replacing it now can reduce hassles and later expenses related to emergency service calls.
- Your furnace isn’t keeping up with heating needs even when it’s running well. A furnace that isn’t the right size or type for your house and heating needs may not keep you warm during Detroit winters, even if it’s in good repair.
Get Help Making a Decision About When to Repair or Replace a Furnace
At Great Dane, we understand that purchasing a new HVAC system is a big decision that can come with a big price tag. When you’re not sure whether your furnace should be repaired or replaced, our technicians take the time to understand your needs, fully inspect your unit and provide you with the information you need to make an educated decision.
Before winter blows in with frigid temperatures, call us to schedule furnace maintenance, repair or installation. We can discuss:
- Your home heating needs
- What options might be right for you
- What service your furnace needs now and in the future
- Payment options to make a new furnace more accessible, if relevant
