One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether it’s time to replace their furnace or if a repair will do the job. The truth is, the answer isn’t always black and white. You should feel confident in your decision, whether that means extending the life of your current furnace or investing in a new one.
Some places just want to sell you a new furnace, which makes it hard to get a truthful answer. Here’s how to know when a replacement makes sense and when repairing your furnace in Winnipeg is the smarter choice.
Look at the Age of Your Furnace
The first factor to consider is age. With regular care and maintenance, furnaces typically last between 15 and 20 years. If your unit is less than 10 years old, repairs usually make more sense. If it’s closer to 20 years, replacement is often more cost-effective.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” says Dallas Friesen from Lynn’s Heating & Cooling.
That being said, age alone isn’t the deciding factor. In Winnipeg, we service plenty of older furnaces that still work reliably thanks to regular maintenance.
Check the Maintenance History
Your care and maintenance routine over the years makes a difference when it’s time to decide whether you should repair or replace your furnace. Your regular maintenance routine should include the following:
- Filters replaced on schedule
- Components cleaned and lubricated
- Gas pressure is properly adjusted
- Annual inspections
By taking care of your furnace with the help of reliable HVAC technicians in Winnipeg, you can help it run safely and efficiently well past its average lifespan. In contrast, a poorly maintained furnace may need to be replaced sooner, even if it’s not that old.
Weigh the Cost of Repairs
Think about how much repairs will cost. If a repair bill is minor, fixing the furnace makes sense. However, if the repair costs are high, especially if they approach the price of a new unit, it’s time to consider replacement.
In other words, it often costs more to keep fixing an old furnace than it does to invest in a newer, more efficient system. Over time, replacement can save you money on both repairs and energy bills.
Watch for Signs Replacement May Be Needed
Even if you take care of your furnace, it will start to wear out over time. Your furnace may be nearing the end of its life if you’re experiencing the following:
- Frequent breakdowns or repeated repairs
- Uneven heating or more cold spots in your home
- Unusual noises like banging or squealing
- Rising energy bills without increased usage
- Visible damage, such as cracks in the heat exchangers
Some of these red flags are more obvious than others. In some cases, repairs will only buy you limited time, and replacement may be the better option.
Why Professional Advice Matters
Many homeowners worry that calling a technician for professional furnace services in Winnipeg will lead to being pressured into buying a new furnace. That’s not how we operate at Lynns:
“You don’t have to be afraid when you hire a technician; they just try to sell you a new unit. We want to fix what’s there, keep your home warm, and keep your budget comfortable.”
Our technicians carry parts, make repairs when possible, and always put your comfort first. Replacement is only recommended when it’s the smarter choice for your finances and safety.
Repair or Replace Your Furnace in Winnipeg
So, when should you switch out or repair your furnace? The decision ultimately comes down to professional furnace installation, age, maintenance history, repair costs, and the overall condition of the furnace. With proper care, many older furnaces in Winnipeg can still run reliably. However, when repairs become too costly or safety is at risk, replacement is often the better choice.
At Lynn’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we provide honest advice to help you get the most from your furnace, with trusted plumbing services in Winnipeg. Do you need a reliable, insured technician to repair or replace your furnace? Contact us today to schedule a furnace inspection today!
