If your furnace has been acting up, you may be wondering whether it can be salvaged or if it’s time to say goodbye to your well-used unit. There are several options for upgrading your home’s HVAC system: expert repairs, replacement, or a retrofit of your current unit by a top HVAC specialist. But how do you know which to choose?
Here are a few key indicators to look out for in your heating system that determine whether your unit can be repaired, requires a hardware upgrade, or is nearing the end of its lifespan. Keep reading to learn how to get top-quality commercial and residential furnace repair from Weiss-Johnson!
When Your Furnace Can Be Fixed
If you notice something wrong with your furnace, that doesn’t automatically mean it needs to be replaced. Even well-maintained units may require occasional repairs.
Suppose your furnace is still relatively new (10 years old or less), within its warranty period, and has generally been a reliable heating source. Repairs are likely the more cost-effective way to get your HVAC back up to snuff.
Your energy consumption is also a big indicator of whether a unit is fixable. If you’ve noticed an issue with your heating system but haven’t experienced a spike in your utility bills, repairs can help maintain its lifespan by several years. Routine maintenance and parts replacement can also help keep any minor issues with your unit at bay.
When a Replacement is More Worthwhile
Even the most well-maintained and high-quality furnaces reach the end of their serviceable life. If your furnace is acting up more than usual, it’s likely beginning to show its age. Some signs that your furnace has seen better days include:
- Age. With proper maintenance, furnaces can last up to 20 years. If your furnace is older than 15 years, its efficiency will only continue to decline.
- High utility bills. Have you seen a consistent spike in your energy bills that doesn’t match how often your furnace is being used? This is a strong indicator that your unit is working harder than it should to heat your home. As your furnace continues to degrade, your utility bills will likely continue to increase.
- Regular breakdowns and maintenance visits. Generally, your furnace should only be serviced once or twice a year. If visits from your HVAC specialist have become a regular occurrence, you’re likely spending more money to fix your furnace than it’s worth.
A general rule of thumb is that if the cost of repairing your furnace exceeds half the price of a new unit, the more cost-effective option is to opt for a full replacement.
When to Opt for a Retrofit
Retrofitting your HVAC system is a great alternative to replacing your furnace, especially if your current unit still has a few years left in its serviceable life. This option is ideal for both residential and commercial HVAC systems, as it is generally more cost-effective for business owners than opting for a full replacement.
Some ways you can retrofit your HVAC system include:
- Install an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) to improve indoor air quality, balance ventilation, maintain comfortable temperatures, and manage humidity levels.
- Upgrade controls to a Smart system for a more intuitive user experience.
- Update your ductwork and insulation to prevent leaks and heat loss.
- Pair your furnace with a standard or ductless mini-split heat pump for optimal heating efficiency. Switching between these two units can prevent your furnace from being overworked during warm temperature spikes in fall and winter, prolonging its lifespan and long-term efficiency.
- Install a programmable thermostat with an Energy-Saving Mode to prevent your utility bills from spiking overnight or when you’re away.
The verdict? Whether you choose to repair, replace, or retrofit your furnace comes down to what best benefits your time and money.
If your furnace is still within its estimated lifespan and under warranty, repairs and system upgrades can help improve its efficiency and provide your home with more comfortable heating and breathable air.
However, if you’re regularly getting your furnace repaired to no avail, it may be time to consider replacing your well-loved unit and save more money in the long run.
Contact Weiss-Johnson for Expert Furnace Repair
Since 1977, Weiss-Johnson has been the go-to partner for heating and cooling systems for Edmonton homeowners, builders, and commercial sites, offering tailored services with a customer-first approach. Whether you need a simple furnace repair, a retrofit, or a full-scale replacement, you can rely on our team to deliver top-quality HVAC services!
Contact us to book your furnace repair, replacement, or retrofit today.
