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Furnace Service or Furnace Replacement: What to Consider

September 11, 2015

The chilly weather in Portland means it’s time to make an appointment for your annual furnace service. If your furnace is getting past its prime, it might be time to start thinking about a furnace replacement.

As with any home improvement project, a new furnace is a considerable investment in your home. The pros at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling can help you decide if it’s time for a furnace replacement or annual furnace service. We have some things to keep in mind while deciding the future of your furnace.

1. Age of System

This will almost certainly be the most telling factor in deciding if it’s time for a repair or replacement. There have been many advancements in furnace technology over the years, including an increase in efficiency and a decrease in noise. If your furnace has almost hit its teen years, it’s a good idea to start looking for a new system. The experts at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling can help you determine if it’s the proper time for a replacement.

2. Cost Comparison

Purchasing a new furnace is an expenditure a homeowner doesn’t want to make until necessary. That’s why comparing the price tag of continually repairing your furnace against the cost of a replacement is a vital part of the decision-making process. When you start comparing the two we have a few things to keep in mind.

Furnace service

  • Look into when your warranty expires and note what it covers so you’re always saving as much as possible.

Furnace replacement

  • When considering what size your new furnace needs to be it’s a good idea to call in the professionals. A technician will determine a load calculation by taking into account your home size and various other factors such as home design, insulation and the typical routine of people living inside the home.
  • The energy efficiency level of the system will factor into the cost of a replacement.
  • Furnaces with higher AFUE ratings will lead to greater energy savings down the road.

After you’ve looked at the costs to continually repair your system or to replace it, there’s a straightforward rule to use as a guide. If your repair cost is 1/3 the price of a replacement or if your furnace is reaching old age, the best option may be a replacement.

Our team in Portland is here to guide you wherever you are along the decision-making process. Whether you need a repair or some guidance in finding a quality replacement, give the pros at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling a call at 503-213-4433.