Winters can get very cold in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, which is why it’s important to have a reliable heating system. When a furnace breaks down, homeowners often have the difficult decision of deciding between furnace repair or furnace replacement.
It’s important to know when your heating system needs professional repair and when it’s time for an upgrade.
Schedule Furnace Repair:
Still Under Warranty – Professionally installed furnaces come with manufacturer warranties that can save money on replacement parts. If your furnace is still under the warranty period and the needed replacement part is covered—it’s probably best to repair the system.
Enrolled in Protection Plan: If you have a furnace protection plan through your heating and cooling company, certain repairs could be covered or labour expenses could be discounted making furnace repair the best option.
Minor Repair: A certified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and explain the required repair and associated cost. A minor, stand-alone problem is usually worth the repair costs, especially if it will help keep your home warm for a few more years.
Schedule Furnace Replacement:
Decade-Old System: A well-maintained furnace can last an average of 15 years. If your current heating system is over a decade old—or hasn’t been properly maintained—it’s at risk of breaking down more often. In this instance, it’s usually a better option to replace your current system with a new high-efficiency furnace.
Frequent Issues & Repairs: If you notice your furnace repair bills are adding up and require increasingly more maintenance to keep it properly functioning, it will usually be more cost effective to replace your system. A new high-efficiency furnace will be more reliable and will also come with a new manufacturer warranty.
Major Repair: If the furnace is not under warranty and requires a major repair or replacement—like a heat exchanger—it’s often more affordable to replace your system than schedule a repair.
The best way to determine if you should repair or replace your furnace is to call a certified technician. They will be able to inspect the heating system and give you an honest assessment of its performance and lifespan.