Heating System Repair Vs. Replace: Which Option Is Best?
Your heating system is your best friend during winter. No matter how cold it gets outside, it will keep you and your family warm inside. Over time, however, problems might develop that will force you to consider either a repair or a replacement.
It is not always easy to know if you should repair or replace your heating system. Most will try to have their system repaired over and over again because of the lower cost. Yet, there are cases wherein heating system replacement is actually the more logical choice.
When To Opt For A Heating System Repair Vs. Replacement
In this article, we discuss some telltale signs that you require a heating system replacement. By knowing these signs, you can save money on HVAC repairs while enjoying an energy-efficient, comfortable home.
Age Of Your Heating System
Heating systems are generally reliable. They are known to last between 15 to 30 years depending on the design, maintenance, usage frequency, manufacturer, and other factors. You could try to maximize those three decades, but it is not always possible. Sometimes issues start to develop much earlier at about 12 to 15 years. By this time, you have already gotten a lot of service from the equipment, so it’s not that painful to have it retired. You will save yourself from the stress of repairs in the future by going for a replacement. Technological progress will also make newer models quite appealing.
A Decrease Of Energy Efficiency
All machines suffer from a gradual reduction in efficiency over time. There are ways to slow this down, such as regular tune-ups. However, this decrease in efficiency cannot be eliminated entirely.
As heating system efficiency decreases, the system will start to consume more fuel to produce the same amount of heat. At some point, the decline in efficiency can be so drastic that fuel consumption becomes unreasonable.
If this happens, a heater replacement will make better sense than holding on to the old machine. High energy consumption is simply not good for the environment as more greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere. Also, you will notice a drastic increase in your home heating costs.
Increased Home Heating Costs
The rise in fuel consumption comes with a corresponding increase in energy costs. Fuel prices vary over time and can spike due to shortages and high demand. However, with an aging or underperforming heating system, it will use more fuel and energy than it normally would. The additional amount of money going to fuel purchases can add up to a significant sum. A few repairs might produce efficiency improvements but not by much. If you replace the heating system, then the new one will immediately impress you with its low fuel consumption and operating cost.
Frequent Heating System Repairs
In theory, a homeowner can keep having the system repaired as long as there are available parts and skilled technicians. That means the 30-year lifespan can really be achieved. Yet, few actually wait for that to happen because repairs can cost a great deal in both time and money. An annual visit by a technician might be tolerable. However, if it becomes three, five, or more time in a year, then you have to wonder if it is all worth it. Perhaps all of the heating system repair costs can simply be channeled into getting a new furnace installed for better reliability.
Discomfort and Heat Imbalance Throughout The Home
The effectiveness of the heating system will also regress with time. In the first few years, it was probably able to keep every room warm enough to keep the whole family comfortable. After a while, the rooms located farther from the system will begin to feel a bit colder until staying in them becomes unviable.
This is one of the surest signs that you need heating system replacement. The machine is no longer up to the task so you have to install a unit that can do the job in its place. Do this at the soonest possible time.
Dusty Home & Poor Indoor Air Quality
We often worry about outdoor air quality because of the factories, cars, and other well-known pollutants. What many fail to realize is that indoor air quality can suffer, too. Dust, debris, and dirt can be trapped inside the home, circulate with the indoor air, and cause discomfort among the occupants of the space. This can be improved by regularly replacing the air filters, cleaning the ducts, and installing UV lights at strategic places. Using an air purifier is another good option. However, if all these are already being done and the air quality has not improved, then perhaps a whole system replacement should be considered.
Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your Heating Needs
The debate about repairs or replacement is endless. However, you will have to take action at some point for the sake of your family’s health and your long-term financial stability. By all means, try to take low-cost options first and see if that works. You might be able to fix problems quickly without spending too much if you act right away.
Just be open to the possibility that you might indeed need to undertake a full heating system replacement when it reaches a certain age or displays other signs mentioned above.
Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.
Need a heating system repair or replacement? No worries. You are in good hands with Point Bay Fuel. We guarantee the most competitive furnace repair and replacement costs in the area. If you happen to need a replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give us a call today for a free, in-home estimate.
Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!