Cooler weather is becoming a realistic possibility in Lafayette, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for your furnace service. However, it’s realistic that it may not be that cut and dry if your system is climbing up there in age and has been causing difficulties over the last few years.
Furnace replacement is an investment in your home, like nearly all other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should spring for that new furnace now or just get your annual furnace service done?
At AC Sales, we know that it can be a hard decision to make, so here are a few pointers to keep in mind if you’re uncertain which path to choose.
1. Furnace Age
This is probably the biggest factor in to your decision, as furnace technology has improved quite a few things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it produces. If your system 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 lifetime of a furnace doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If furnace service has been consistent and it has been properly maintained, you could be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always variables when it comes to determining the cost of replacing versus having furnace service and repairs done, but there are a couple things to keep in mind when comparing the two.
Furnace service
- Get a couple estimates to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty runs out and note what it includes so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Furnace replacement
- Furnace size will be calculated by the size of your home.
- Cost will differ depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re wanting.
- The higher the AFUE rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you determine 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 solution.
Of course, these are only a small number of the variables, but the pros at AC Sales are more than happy to help you determine which furnace is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at (337) 234-2345 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.
