Winters in San Antonio are generally mild, but we do get below freezing and occasionally have snow. You rely on your furnace to keep your home warm. If your furnace is breaking down frequently, you might ask yourself if you should replace your furnace instead of getting it repaired again. Here are some factors to consider.
Cost Factor
A general rule of thumb suggests considering furnace replacement when repair costs exceed 50% of the cost of purchasing a new unit. Another guideline is the $5,000 rule. If you multiply your furnace’s age by the cost of repairs and it exceeds $5,000, it’s an indication that it’s time to replace the system.
You can compare the annual costs for your furnace if you are financing. Speak with your HVAC maintenance and repair company about what issues they see with your system. Ask them for some ballpark cost of parts and labor with each part and divide the total cost by 12 to estimate the monthly cost of upcoming repairs. In comparison, get an estimate for the monthly cost of a new, financed installation. You can also factor in the reduction of utility bills you will get with a more efficient furnace.
Leaking Carbon Monoxide
If your furnace has a damaged combustion chamber, it may leak carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Signs of improper combustion can include a yellow and blue flame, rust on pipes, soot around your furnace, or family members experiencing flu-like symptoms. To take safety precautions, have the air in your home evaluated for carbon monoxide and take steps to replace your heater. If you have a fuel-burning furnace, you should have a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Rising Utility Bills
Furnaces tend to lose efficiency as they age. Examine your energy bills. Many companies include how much electricity or fuel you used and the average temperatures for the previous year. If you notice a consistent pattern of increased expenses or unexpected spikes, it could signal inefficient operation. This may suggest that your system is declining and is due for replacement.
You’re Making Repairs More Frequently
While all furnaces occasionally need repairs, frequent and increasingly significant repairs can lead to higher costs as your furnace ages. A well-maintained heating system expected to last for some time should not require constant repairs. Evaluate the pros and cons of repair versus replacement.
You Plan on Selling Your Home
When selling a home, potential buyers consider the investment they are making. Newer, efficient heating systems can save money in the long run and are less likely to require repairs. Older heating systems with a history of breakdowns may deter buyers, making a home with a more reliable system more attractive.
When Repairing Is a Good Option
If your HVAC system is relatively new or it is the first time it has broken down, you don’t want to jump directly to replacing the unit. A skilled repair technician may be able to visit your home, assess the issue that you’re having, and quickly conduct repairs.
Some easy-to-fix issues could be caused by old or clogged filters, a malfunctioning heat exchanger, a broken blower, or problems with the limit switch. An HVAC professional can also look at your thermostat to see if it needs adjusting. They can look at your circuit breaker to see if the problem starts there. Repairing any one of these issues might get your HVAC system working as it should without requiring you to replace your furnace.
Schedule Maintenance Before Winter Arrives
The worst thing you can do is wait until a heating emergency occurs before contacting HVAC professionals to inspect your heater. It’s advisable to schedule annual fall maintenance before you use the furnace for the season. Although it involves a small investment, this proactive approach allows HVAC professionals to identify and address any issues with your furnace, ensuring it remains in good condition when the cold weather sets in.
During the winter, many individuals experience furnace emergencies, leading to longer wait times for repairs and potentially higher costs. Knowing about significant expenses, such as the need for furnace replacement, well in advance provides you with more time to assess your options and budget. This preparation enables you to make informed decisions and avoid the stress of last-minute emergency repairs.
Working With Certified HVAC Contractors in San Antonio
At MD Air Conditioning & Heating, we strive to understand our clients’ home comfort needs. Our services include HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. We offer commercial and residential HVAC as well as indoor air quality services. Contact MD Air Conditioning & Heating in San Antonio, TX today and see what sets us apart from the rest.