Making the Decision to Repair or Replace Your Old Furnace Unit
Finding the Most Affordable Option
Choosing to repair an existing unit is often the most cost-effective option in the short term while replacing an older furnace may allow owners to reduce heating and operational costs in order to save money in the long run. Choosing whether to repair or replace is never a decision that should be taken lightly. Costs and expenses need to be considered carefully in order to determine which option is the most frugal.
Equipment Age
The first, and often most important, factor when deciding whether to repair or replace is the age of the equipment. Heating and cooling appliances that have been in use for a decade or more may be far more likely to suffer from impaired performance, inefficient operation and more frequent breakdowns or mechanical problems. While having to cover the cost of a new unit can be a significant expense, trying to make do with a furnace that is too far past its prime could end up being far more costly in the end. Even a furnace that may require only minor repairs may not be worth the expense once it has reached a certain age.
Features, Performance, and Dependability
Even a forced air heating system, furnace or other HVAC components that may be in fairly good condition may be worth maintaining. Newer appliances and equipment options typically provide a range of features and a level of performance that is not available from their older counterparts. Having to make frequent repairs on an older furnace or dealing with the frustration and lack of comfort typically associated with less dependable appliances is something that homeowners would do well to avoid. Upgrading HVAC components can help to create a more comfortable, efficient and cost-effective household environment.
Environmental Impact
There is much that can be said about minimizing the ecological impact of the household. Homeowners who are concerned about the environment would do well to learn about how next-generation HVAC systems, equipment, and appliances can help to minimize consumption of electricity and other utilities and help reduce the home’s carbon footprint. From AC systems that are leaking coolant to older furnaces that may be polluting the air with each use, homeowners who are serious about creating a greener and more sustainable household would do well to assess the ecological impact of their home before deciding whether to repair or upgrade their existing appliances.
Determining the True Cost
While cost is not the only issue that may need to be considered, it is an important one. Even households that are committed to creating a state-of-the-art system will still have to deal with the constraints of their budget or financial situation. When assessing the cost differences, it is important to pay attention to all of the details. Failing to account for future repair costs when assessing the value of an existing furnace, overlooking the added costs needed to purchase a warranty, or arranging for professional installation when purchasing a new unit can lead to many problems.
Tax Credits and Utility Rebates
Assistance programs, sales events, and other opportunities to reduce the purchase cost of a new furnace can often make a key difference. Flat or even no-interest loans that can provide home and property owners with the financial resources needed to improve energy efficiency throughout the home can be a major factor when it comes to determining if the time is right for an upgrade. Other rebates and incentives that may be available through a utility provider, or evening knowing when HVAC companies in Montgomery, AL may be having a sales event, can help to ensure that more successful and cost-effective purchases and upgrades can be made.
Making the Best Decision
Choosing whether to repair an existing furnace or to invest in a new unit can be a big decision. From purchase and operational costs to potential health or safety hazards older equipment may pose, there are numerous factors that will need to be considered. Identifying the situations where a simple repair is all that is required or knowing when the time is right to upgrade to a newer-model unit is not a matter that should be left to chance.