Furnace Repair vs. Replacement: How Do You Decide?

The new year is here, and the temperature outside is freezing. Hopefully, you’ve survived the holiday season in comfort. Your furnace is working hard to heat your home. But if you suspect problems with your heating system, it could be time to repair or replace it. Read on to determine whether you need a furnace repair or a replacement.

Signs You Need a Furnace Repair

Repairing your furnace can be a cost-effective way to make it through the winter without requiring a replacement. If you notice any of these common issues, chances are a service technician can repair it and restore your comfort quickly:

High-Pitched Squeal

It’s normal for your furnace to make sounds as it turns on and off and during operation. But the sounds shouldn’t alarm you. Many noises can signal trouble for your furnace. But even though a high-pitched squeal might sound like a horrible thing, it usually means a blower belt has slipped or frayed. The good news is that this is an easy furnace repair for a service technician to complete as long as you have the issue looked at right away.

Frequent One and Off Cycling

Frequent cycling can indicate numerous issues, but the most common is a clogged air filter. You should change your furnace’s air filter every three months to prevent poor airflow, added system strain and higher heating costs. If you’re not sure which filter to use or how to change it, a service technician can help you complete this vital maintenance task.

Yellow Burner Flame

Do you have an older gas furnace? If so, it’s critical that the furnace’s burner flame is blue. If it’s yellow, you likely have dirty burners. It’s important to clean the burners in your furnace at least once either before or during the heating season to prevent other problems. A service technician can cleaner the burners and inspect the assembly.

Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement

Replacing your furnace can be a stressful endeavor, especially in the middle of winter. Holding off until the spring is an option, but you shouldn’t wait longer. Here are some indications you need a furnace replacement soon:

Old Age

Manufacturers design furnaces to last up to 20 years. But to operates that long effectively and efficiently, you must schedule annual furnace maintenance. If your furnace is approaching 15 years in age, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Saving for a new furnace now will help you avoid a hefty financial burden later.

Rising Energy and Repair Costs

Are you constantly calling a service technician for a furnace repair? If so, it’s probably more cost-effective to replace your heating system. Rising heating costs can also indicate that your furnace is straining itself to heat your home for any number of reasons. If these reasons add up over time, it could result in a permanent breakdown.

No Home Heating

If your furnace isn’t heating your home, first check to ensure you’ve set the thermostat correctly. The setting should read higher than the temperature in your home, and you should set the fan to on instead of auto. If that doesn’t fix the issue, you’ll need a service technician to visit your home to take a closer look. It could be a severe problem.

Home heating is essential to family comfort and health. If your home’s furnace isn’t effectively and efficiently warming up your home this winter, you should schedule a professional inspection to determine whether you need to repair or replace it. Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. For friendly service, call us at 703-783-0145. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take care your furnace repair needs through the cold winter months.

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