During the cold weather season, homeowners in New York depend on their furnace in order to maintain a warm and comfortable home. As they show signs of needed excessive repair, many homeowners are at a loss as to whether they should replace or simply repair their furnace. Most homeowners would rather pay for the smaller repair fees as opposed to the replacement costs if the furnace can last a few more years. To help you make a more informed decision, we at Agape Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing would like to offer some points regarding furnace repair versus furnace replacement.
Cost of Furnace Repair VS Replacement
More than half of the price of a replacement is exceeded in repair costs. Should any repair costs exceeds 50% of the cost of a replacement, it is recommended by expert that you invest in a furnace replacement. Additionally, in the event the furnaces that have operated through over 75% of their lifespan require repairs of 1/3rd of a replacement cost, a replacement is in your better interest. A furnace, when it first shows signs of decline that is over 15 years old should also be replaced.
Steadily Increasing Heating Bills
With the changes in weather patterns from year to year as well as the supply and demand, homeowners can expect the heating costs fluctuate. Although, when the use of the furnace use coincides and you notice unusual spikes month to month, it is likely caused by underlying problems. The wear and tear naturally occur on the internal components as the furnace ages. In the event the furnace is under 10 years and the repairs are few and far between it is usually safe to consider repairs over replacement.
Age of Furnace
Though it depends on manufacturing year, quality of the model and the care provided, the lifespan of a furnace can range between 15 and 30 years. As the furnace approaches later years, may concerns naturally arise. When the furnace is under 10 years it is safe to presume repairs are safe, but when they are older than a decade and continually needs repairs for two seasons in a row, you should consider replacement.
Furnace Carbon Monoxide Leak
Carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” can be potentially fatal with long-term exposure. Because this toxic gas is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, detection is only possible with carbon monoxide detectors. Additionally, for those who are observant can suspect a leak with the red flags. Usually furnace has a cracked combustion chamber, that is irreparable though there are other similar issues that can produce carbon monoxide. There has likely been prolonged carbon monoxide exposure that are indicated with the signs below:
– Surrounding the furnace, there are soot streaks
– Rust on the pipes
– Flu-like symptoms like headaches, nausea, disorientation, and other like symptoms
– The inactive chimney upward draft.
– The furnace’s burner flame becomes yellow instead of blue
– Visible excessive moisture buildup on surfaces such as windows, walls, and others
Forced Air Furnace Heating Repair, Replacement & More in Bedford Hills, Manhattan, Flushing, Queens, Brooklyn & The Bronx, New York
Ultimately, it is your choice if you opt to replace or repair the furnace, as this is a guide for your consideration. The trusted experts of at Agape Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing is happy to assist you, no matter if you decide to repair or replace your furnace. Contact us today!