Knowing when to replace your furnace isn’t always easy. Although many homeowners believe repairing a furnace offers the cheaper option, frequent repairs often can cost more than a replacement. As such, the Fast Air Repair team put together a guide to help you understand when to replace your furnace, so you don’t waste money on costly repairs.
Fast Air Repair is one of Ocala, FL’s most trusted furnace installation and replacement companies. We have extensive experience installing and replacing all the leading furnace makes and models from the biggest names in the industry. If you have a heat pump, you can also receive heat pump repair in Ocala by Fast Air Repair.
We help countless Ocala residents replace their furnaces and can do the same for you at a fair and affordable price.
Replacement vs. Repair
As stated before, figuring out if your furnace requires repairs or a replacement isn’t easy. Many people don’t notice a failing or faulty furnace’s warning signs until too late. However, you need to consider three aspects when deciding whether you need furnace replacement or repair:
- Replacement costs vs. repair costs
- Your furnace’s age
- Your comfort goals and budget
Furnace Repair
Furnace repair costs depend on replacement parts prices and labor time. Although the average lifespan of a furnace ranges from 15 to 20 years, most require minimal repairs every so often. All repairs fall in one of two categories: minor repairs or major repairs.
Minor Repairs
Minor repairs take less time and don’t demand exceedingly high prices. While most people won’t need to replace their furnaces due to minor repairs, your technician will examine your system and help you decide the next steps.
Some of the most common minor furnace repairs include:
- Pressure switch replacements
- Ignitor replacements
- Sequencer replacements
- Transformer replacements
Major Repairs
Major furnace repairs are much more strenuous and often take longer to complete, resulting in higher prices. They significantly decrease your system’s performance and often cause it to stop functioning entirely.
Below we list some of the most common major furnace repairs.
- Gas valve replacement
- Circuit board replacement
- Inducer motor replacement
- Blower motor replacement
- Heat exchanger replacement or repair
Furnace Replacement
New furnaces usually cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,600 after labor. However, the final price depends on the following.
- Staging
- Efficiency level
- Sizing
A large, high-efficiency furnace will cost more than a smaller, less efficient system.
Sometimes it’s more cost-effective to replace your furnace than perform major repairs, but it isn’t always the case. Since furnace repair costs range from 100 bucks to thousands of dollars, you must compare the repair and replacement prices and decide which solution works best for you.
Why Your Furnace’s Age Matters
One of the best ways to determine if you need a furnace replacement is by evaluating your system’s age. Most modern furnaces last up to 20 years. However, if you maintain your furnace correctly, you can extend its lifespan even further.
If your furnace is 15 years or older and breaks down somewhat frequently, the best option might be to replace it rather than spend money on continual repairs. Even if your 15-year-old furnace doesn’t malfunction regularly, you should still consider replacing it as soon as possible so you won’t have to deal with future issues.
A well-built furnace shouldn’t require repairs before hitting the ten-year mark. If it does, you may want to consider upgrading to a better system.
When To Replace Your Furnace
If your furnace is ten years old or younger and needs a major repair, it’s likely experiencing considerable strain and may require you to replace the unit. There are a few potential causes for the strain, including:
- Manufacturer defects
- Improper installation
- Improper maintenance
Although it’s natural for furnaces to malfunction occasionally, newer furnaces shouldn’t require major repairs for at least ten years. Always compare the repair prices to the replacement costs before committing to a specific service. Consider replacing the unit if the repairs outweigh or come close to the replacement costs.
Warning Signs of a Failing or Faulty Furnace
Unusual Noises
Your furnace might make slight noises while in use. However, if you notice your system rattling, squealing, or popping, you must call Fast Air Repair for immediate service.
Rattling noises often indicate a loose mechanism, while squealing and popping are signs of a more significant issue. Our team will evaluate your furnace and help you find the best solution.
Uneven Indoor Temperatures
Faulty furnaces have trouble keeping your indoor temperature even, resulting in fluctuating climate distribution. Their decreased efficiency causes a substantial loss in air circulation and can increase your monthly energy expenses. Our team will handle any air distribution issues plaguing your system and ensure your unit functions optimally.
Strange Odors
Furnace motors emit an off-putting burnt electrical smell when about to stop working. If you don’t address the problem swiftly, it can lead to more significant and expensive repairs. You must hire a professional technician to replace the motor before the situation worsens.
Increase in Monthly Energy Expenses
Faulty furnaces require more energy to function than well-maintained systems and can skyrocket your monthly energy costs. Replacing your insufficient furnace with an upgraded model will decrease your energy bill expenses and provide adequate heat distribution throughout your home.
Contact Fast Air Repair for All Your Furnace Repair and Replacement Needs
Fast Air Repair is your source for high-quality furnace repair and replacement services in Ocala, FL. Our team can handle all your furnace needs without burdening your finances. We always make you our number one priority and won’t hesitate to go the extra mile to ensure you are 100% satisfied with our services.
Don’t trust inexperienced furnace installation companies to learn when to replace your furnace. Call 352-290-7968 and receive first-class furnace installation and replacement by Fast Air Repair at a price that fits your budget today!