What To Do & When to Do It
Your heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It’s also one of the most expensive. The last thing you want to do is replace it prematurely. But how do you know when it’s time to replace your old unit? What should you look for in a replacement? As a homeowner, you want to stay on top of your heating system, but some of these issues can be truly baffling unless you’re a professional.
Below we answer five frequently asked questions about heater replacements. Keep reading to learn more.
#1: My Heater Is 20 Years Old; Do I Have to Replace It?
If your heater is operating efficiently and happy with its performance, you do not have to replace it. However, if your furnace is over 15 years old, you should begin planning for a replacement. Though a furnace in good repair may last up to 30 years, this is somewhat rare, and most people replace their furnaces around the 15-20 year mark.
To avoid a premature replacement and get the most out of your current furnace, make sure you schedule annual maintenance with a professional heater service specialist like ours at Premier Indoor Comfort Systems. We can help you keep your current system running smoothly and help you defer a replacement until it’s truly necessary.
#2: How Do I Know Whether To Repair or Replace My Heating System?
When your heater breaks down, it can be hard to know whether or not you just need a simple repair or if you should replace the system. Things become even more complicated when you’re choosing between an extensive repair and replacement.
To determine if you should repair or replace your heater, you should consider a couple of things:
- Does the cost of the repair exceed the price of a new system?
- Will the repair resolve the problem in the long term?
- Is the system in otherwise good condition, or are you dealing with chronic repair problems?
- Are you satisfied with the heating system’s performance, generally speaking?
If your heater breaks down and you’re unsure whether to repair or replace it, rely on the expertise of a trusted heater repair specialist. Your service technician can help you understand all of your repair and replacement options and guide you in selecting the option that makes the most sense for you.
#3: Is It Difficult to Replace a Furnace?
Replacing a heater is a big job. Any time a large gas appliance needs to be removed or installed, it is important that you work with a skilled, licensed professional. When furnaces are not installed correctly, it can be dangerous for you and your family. The last thing you want to deal with is a gas leak. Additionally, an incorrectly installed furnace may become damaged beyond repair, and you may find yourself having to pay to replace your replacement.
#4: What Should I Look for in a New Furnace?
The answer to this question will vary depending on your individual needs. The first thing you want to look for is a furnace that utilizes the fuel type your home is set up for: gas, propane, electric, or oil. From there, you will want to find a furnace that is correctly sized for your home and which fits your budget.
When selecting a new furnace, you should also:
- Look for a furnace that is made by a reputable, major manufacturer.
- Avoid buying a heating system based solely on price.
- Decide if you want a single-stage, multistage, or modulating heat furnace.
- Select a heater with a high AFUE rating.
- Consider the cost of operation (fuel costs).
- Factor the cost of installation into the purchase price.
Selecting your new furnace can be overwhelming. We recommend working with one of our furnace replacement experts during this process. Our goal is to ensure that you are happy with the new heater you select, and we will always provide you with honest guidance.
#5: Will a New Heating System Increase the Value of My Home?
Depending on your situation, a new heating system may make your home more attractive to potential buyers. If your current heating system is in disrepair or broken down, you may be required to replace it as part of the inspection process. Additionally, potential buyers may be wary of buying a home with an old heating system because they do not want to face the costs of making such a large replacement so soon after moving in.
Though a new heating system may help increase the overall appeal of your home, it is unlikely to increase the home’s value directly.
Get the Help You Need When You Need It
Replacing your heating system is a big investment. Luckily, you do not have to make this important decision alone. Premier Indoor Comfort Systems has helped countless homeowners through the heater replacement process, and we are here to help you too. We work hard to ensure that our customers get the dedicated guidance they need, and we are proud to offer expert-level heater installation services.
Contact us online to discuss your furnace replacement now.