Furnace Repair vs. Replacement: How to Decide

When your furnace starts to show signs of trouble, you’ll have the difficult decision of whether to repair or replace it entirely. Do you fix the existing system and possibly extend its lifespan? Or do you invest in a new energy-efficient system that better meets your current heating needs? Understanding the factors that influence this decision can save you money, improve comfort, and help you avoid problems down the road.

Serving Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas, The Lee Thompson Company has been providing home and business owners throughout the greater Houston metro area with reliable HVAC services since 1961. Whether you’re in need of prompt furnace repair or require a furnace replacement, our team of trained technicians can help you create a warm and cozy space, backed by The Lee Guarantee.

Not sure whether you need a furnace repair or an entirely new furnace? We can help. Let’s break down the key considerations to help you decide whether furnace repair or replacement is the right choice for you.

Signs that Your Furnace Needs Attention

A well-functioning furnace is key to maintaining a comfortable home environment, especially during the colder months. However, when your furnace starts to show signs of distress, it can lead to discomfort and unexpected costs. Recognizing these signs early on can help you decide whether to repair or replace your furnace.

Inconsistent Heating

Hot and cold spots around your home are a telltale sign that your furnace may not be distributing heat properly. This could be due to clogged filters, ductwork issues, or failing components like the blower motor.

One of the best ways to prevent inconsistent heating issues and keep your equipment in the best shape possible is through regular maintenance. At The Lee Thompson Co., we offer two maintenance plans with member perks like annual tune-ups, discounts on repairs, priority service, and annual loyalty credits.

Unusual Noises

Noises, such as banging, whistling, and screeching, are common red flags. A properly functioning furnace should operate quietly. Unusual noises often point to mechanical problems, such as a loose belt, malfunctioning blower, or worn-out bearings.

Rising Energy Bills

If you notice that your heating costs are significantly higher than usual, it could be an indication that your furnace is losing efficiency. Older furnaces or units in poor condition can consume more energy to produce the same amount of heat, leading to higher bills.

Short Cycling

Short cycling occurs when your furnace starts and stops frequently without completing a full heating cycle. This could be caused by a faulty thermostat, clogged filters, or an issue with the heat exchanger.

At The Lee Thompson Co., our licensed and trained technicians can help you diagnose the problem and recommend a suitable solution. Our technicians are background-checked, drug tested and receive ongoing safety training to ensure customer satisfaction.

Yellow Pilot Light

A yellow or flickering pilot light can be a sign of a gas burner problem or incomplete combustion. This issue should be addressed immediately, as it could indicate a carbon monoxide buildup.

Strange Odors

If you smell something burning or see smoke coming from your furnace, immediately turn off the unit and call in a professional. This could indicate an electrical issue or an internal component that is overheating or burning out.

Factors to Consider When Deciding Between Furnace Repair and Replacement

When faced with a furnace that’s showing signs of wear, it’s crucial to evaluate several factors before deciding whether to repair or replace it. The decision often comes down to a combination of cost, efficiency, safety, and long-term benefits. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when making this important choice:

Age of the Furnace

The average lifespan of a furnace is between 10 and 20 years, depending on the brand, usage, and maintenance. As furnaces age, they become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.

A furnace older than 15 years will often start to show signs of wear, leading to higher repair costs and decreased performance. The older the furnace, the less likely a repair will be a long-term solution. In addition, parts for older models can be difficult to find and are often less efficient than newer, more advanced models.

If your furnace is approaching the end of its lifespan, it may be time to consider furnace replacement rather than more furnace repairs. At The Lee Thompson Co., we offer industry-leading products such as American Standard, Lennox, and Mitsubishi to ensure that you’re fully satisfied with your new heating system.

Cost of Repairs

Furnace repairs can range from simple fixes to expensive replacement of critical components. Important components, such as the ignitor, thermostat, blower motor, and heat exchanger, can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. The cost of labor can significantly add to the final bill.

When considering if a new furnace is right for you, have an HVAC professional provide a thorough assessment of your current equipment. Does it still have plenty of life? If so, furnace repair services may be the best approach. However, when repair costs approach or exceed 50 percent of the cost of a new furnace, replacing the furnace may be the smarter financial choice.

Efficiency and Energy Costs

Older furnaces tend to operate at lower efficiency levels compared to newer models. While most furnaces manufactured before the 2000s have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 60 to 70 percent, modern units can achieve 90 to 98 percent efficiency.

New furnaces feature high-efficiency technology, meaning they use less energy to produce the same amount of heat, Replacing your old furnace with a high-efficiency model may reduce your heating costs by 30 to 40 percent. In addition, modern furnaces are equipped with features like modulating gas valves and variable-speed blowers, which can provide more precise temperature control and reduce energy waste.

If you discover that your aging furnace is not as efficient as you’d like and is driving up your utility bills, it may be time for a furnace replacement.

Frequency of Repairs

It can be frustrating to deal with frequent furnace repairs. While most homeowners encounter the occasional need for furnace repair services, frequent repairs may indicate that the furnace is deteriorating and may soon require additional fixes. In these cases, investing in a new furnace can prevent ongoing frustration and unexpected costs.

Frequent repairs are not only costly to deal with, although furnace repairs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Homeowners also lose valuable time spent waiting for HVAC technicians to arrive, inspect, and repair their equipment. If you’re tired of dealing with frequent repairs, a furnace replacement may be the best option.

Need help paying for furnace repair or replacement? The Lee Thompson Co. offers multiple payment options, as well as convenient financing options for major repairs. Also, ask about our special discounts, including $250 off any heat or AC replacement, $25 off any heat or AC repair, and free estimates on equipment replacement.

Safety Considerations

Older furnaces pose safety risks, especially if they have reached the end of their lifespan. Furnaces with cracks in the heat exchanger, for example, can leak carbon monoxide, a dangerous, colorless, and odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in high concentrations.

Gas leaks or poor ventilation in older systems can also lead to the buildup of harmful gases. If you notice signs of gas leaks, such as a sulfur or rotten egg smell, or if the furnace is producing yellow or flickering pilot lights, immediate attention is required. Some minor safety issues can be fixed through furnace repair services, but not all are small fixes.

If your furnace has any major safety hazards, it is often best to replace it to avoid safety risks. Modern furnaces are equipped with improved safety features, such as better combustion systems, sealed combustion chambers, and advanced sensors that monitor and control gas and airflow.

When to Choose Furnace Repair Services?

When furnace replacement often makes sense when the system is old or inefficient, there are several scenarios where repairing your furnace is a more cost-effective and practical decision. Consider furnace repair if:

• Your furnace is relatively new (under 10 years old)
• The repair is minor and affordable, such as repairing a faulty thermostat
• The furnace has been well-maintained, meaning regularly cleaned and serviced
• The furnace is under warranty
• The problem is isolated and not recurring, such as a sensor malfunction
• The cost of repair is less than 50 percent of the cost of replacement
• You are planning to move soon

When to Choose a New Furnace Installation?

In some situations, furnace repair isn’t enough to keep your heating system running efficiently and affordably. There are several key scenarios that make furnace replacement the most sense. Consider furnace replacement if:

• Your furnace is over 15 years old and needs significant repairs
• The furnace requires frequent or expensive repairs, such as replacing a heat exchanger
• The furnace is inefficient and driving up energy bills
• The furnace poses a safety risk, such as a cracked heat exchanger that is leaking gas
• The furnace is no longer adequately heating your home, leading to cold spots
• The furnace needs a major component replacement
• You want to improve indoor air quality and air filters are no longer effective at capturing dust, allergens, and other pollutants
• You’re looking to upgrade to a more efficient or feature-rich heating system

Trust The Lee Thompson Co. for Furnace Services

When it comes to deciding between furnace repair and replacement, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best choice depends on factors like the age of your furnace, the frequency and cost of repairs, energy efficiency, safety concerns, and long-term financial considerations. By weighing all the factors carefully and considering both short-term costs and long-term benefits, you can help ensure that your home stays warm, safe, and efficient for years.

If your furnace is acting up, furnace repair or replacement may be in your future. At The Lee Thompson Company, we offer a wide range of heating services, including heating repair, installation, and maintenance, as well as boilers, furnaces, heat pumps, ductless mini splits, and temperature zoning systems. Our heating experts can help you determine if furnace repair is the best option for you or if you should consider upgrading to a new heating system. Call us today at 713-766-4846 to discuss your heating needs.