When the cold winter months arrive in McKinney, Frisco, Plano, here in Blue Ridge, and surrounding North Texas areas, having a reliable furnace is essential to keeping your home warm and comfortable. However, if your furnace is on the fritz, you’re faced with a tough decision: should you repair it or replace it with a new one? At Crazy AC Guy, we understand that deciding between furnace repair and furnace installation can be a challenge, especially when it’s a matter of comfort and cost. Let’s walk through the factors you should consider when making this decision, and how we can help you choose the best option for your home.
WHEN TO REPAIR YOUR FURNACE
Furnace repairs can be the best option if your unit is still relatively young, and the issues are minor or repairable. Here are some situations when furnace repair makes sense:
1. The Furnace is Less Than 10 Years Old
If your furnace is relatively new, say under 10 years old, it might be worth repairing it. Furnaces of this age still have many years of life left, so a repair can restore its efficiency and keep your home warm.
2. The Issue is Minor or Specific
Sometimes, furnace problems are caused by small issues like a dirty air filter, faulty thermostat, or a pilot light that needs adjustment. In these cases, a simple repair could have your furnace running like new. If the issue is isolated to a component, repairs are often cost-effective.
3. You’re Looking to Save Money
Furnace repairs tend to be much less expensive than a full furnace replacement, especially when you’re dealing with small issues. If the repair costs are under 50% of the cost of a new furnace, repairing your existing furnace could be the better choice.
4. Your Furnace Is Running Efficiently
If your furnace is still running efficiently and the issue at hand doesn’t affect its overall performance, repairing it might be a more affordable and logical solution. Ensure that the unit still heats your home effectively and doesn’t require constant repairs.
5. You Don’t Plan on Staying in the Home Long-Term
If you’re planning to sell your home soon, repairing your furnace might be enough to get it through the last stretch. Buyers may not mind a slightly older furnace if it’s in good condition.
WHEN TO INSTALL A NEW FURNACE
There are some cases where installing a new furnace is the better option, especially when your current system is old, inefficient, or too costly to repair. Here’s when you should consider furnace replacement:
1. Your Furnace is Over 15 Years Old
Furnaces have an average lifespan of 15-20 years. If your furnace is nearing or past that age, it’s likely to start experiencing more frequent and expensive breakdowns. Even if it can be repaired, it’s often more cost-effective to replace it with a new, energy-efficient model that will save you money in the long run.
2. The Furnace Requires Frequent Repairs
If you find yourself calling a technician every season for repairs, it may be a sign that your furnace is on its last legs. Frequent repairs can add up quickly, and at a certain point, replacing the furnace with a new one will cost you less in the long term.
3. Your Furnace Isn’t Heating Your Home Properly
If your furnace is no longer able to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home, it may be time to replace it. Poor performance, uneven heating, and an inability to reach desired temperatures are common signs that your furnace is no longer working efficiently.
4. Rising Energy Bills
An inefficient furnace can cause your energy bills to rise as it struggles to keep your home warm. If your furnace is over 10 years old, it may no longer be energy-efficient, and replacing it with a high-efficiency model could help lower your heating costs.
5. You Want the Latest Technology
Newer furnace models come with a host of energy-saving features, smart thermostats, and improved efficiency ratings. Upgrading to a newer model could increase your home’s comfort while reducing your carbon footprint. If you’re looking for a long-term investment in comfort, a new furnace might be the way to go.
FURNACE REPAIR CHECKLIST: DO-IT-YOURSELF VS. CALLING THE PROFESSIONALS
While some furnace issues are minor and can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, other problems require professional expertise. Here’s a quick checklist to help you determine whether you can handle the repair yourself or need to call in the experts at Crazy AC Guy:
DO-IT-YOURSELF (DIY) CHECKLIST:
- Check the Thermostat: Ensure that the thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature.
- Inspect the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can cause airflow problems and reduce furnace efficiency. If it’s clogged, replace it with a clean one.
- Inspect the Pilot Light: If your furnace has a standing pilot light, ensure it’s lit. If it’s not, relight it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check for Obstructions: Make sure nothing is blocking the furnace vents or registers. This can affect airflow and heating efficiency.
CALLING A PROFESSIONAL:
- Loud or Unusual Noises: If you hear loud banging, squealing, or grinding noises coming from your furnace, it’s a sign of a serious issue that requires professional attention.
- Furnace Not Heating Properly: If your furnace isn’t heating your home effectively, it could indicate a larger issue, such as a malfunctioning blower motor or heat exchanger, which requires expert repair.
- Constant Cycling: If your furnace turns on and off frequently (short cycling), it’s likely a sign of a serious issue that should be diagnosed by a professional.
- Pilot Light or Gas Issues: If your pilot light won’t stay lit, or you smell gas near the furnace, call a technician immediately, as this could be a safety hazard.
HEATING SYSTEM INSTALLATION SERVICES FROM CRAZY AC GUY
If you decide that it’s time to replace your old furnace, Crazy AC Guy is here to provide top-quality heating system installation services. Our team will work with you to choose the perfect furnace for your home, budget, and needs. We specialize in high-efficiency furnaces that will save you money on energy bills and ensure consistent warmth throughout your home.
We provide professional furnace installation with a focus on:
- Proper Sizing: Ensuring that the furnace is the correct size for your home and heating needs.
- Energy-Efficiency: We help you select energy-efficient models that will reduce your carbon footprint and lower your utility bills.
- Upfront Pricing: You’ll know the full cost of the installation before we begin the job, with no surprises at the end.
- Expert Installation: Our skilled technicians will install your new furnace quickly and professionally, ensuring it runs smoothly from day one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How do I know if my furnace needs to be replaced?
A: If your furnace is more than 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or is no longer heating your home efficiently, it might be time to replace it.
Q: What’s the average cost to replace a furnace?
A: The cost to replace a furnace depends on the size of your home and the type of furnace you choose. Contact Crazy AC Guy for a free estimate, and we’ll help you find an option that fits your budget.
Q: How long does a furnace typically last?
A: A well-maintained furnace can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. After that, it’s likely to become less efficient and require more repairs.
Q: Can I repair my furnace myself?
A: Some minor issues, like replacing a dirty air filter, can be done yourself. However, for serious problems, it’s best to call a professional technician to ensure safe and effective repairs.
Q: How often should I have my furnace serviced?
A: It’s recommended to have your furnace serviced annually, before the winter season, to ensure it’s running efficiently and safely.
Whether you need a simple repair or a full furnace replacement, Crazy AC Guy is here to provide reliable, efficient solutions for your home. We’re committed to keeping you warm during the winter months with expert service, competitive pricing, and dependable results. If you’re not sure whether to repair or replace your furnace, give us a call, and we’ll help guide you to the best decision for your comfort and budget.
Need furnace service? Contact Crazy AC Guy today at CrazyACGuy.com or call us for a free consultation and expert advice!