A new gas furnace in Boulder, CO, can cost a pretty penny, depending on the model you choose and its output. With this kind of investment, you will want to consider carefully if your next step is a repair or a replacement. Continue reading for help deciding whether you should consider repairing your existing unit or replacing it with a new one.
Age of Your Furnace
The average gas furnace should last between 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If your furnace is less than 12 to 15 years old, you may want to consider repairing your existing unit.
However, if you are beyond the 12-year mark, you might want to start looking at new furnaces to see what’s on the market.
Increasing Heating Bills
Have you noticed your heating bills steadily increasing over the last few years? While bills may be variable based on commodity prices, your consumption should be fairly static.
Increasing consumption indicates your furnace’s efficiency continues to drop. This means either your system needs replacement or needs repairs to restore its efficiency.
Repair Costs
Consider the costs of the heating repairs you need. If the repair costs are high enough, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Strange Noises and Smells
Strange noises and smells coming from your furnace indicate there is a problem. Some of these indicate substantial problems needing immediate attention. For instance, a strong chemical smell indicates a possible leak in your heat exchanger.
Call for a system inspection if you notice strange smells or unusual noises. Once you determine what is causing these problems, you can evaluate whether you should attempt a repair.
Operational Safety
One of the biggest risks of aging units is leaking carbon monoxide into your home. A certified technician will evaluate if there are any current leaks or components that may develop leaks. Call us at Vectra Mechanical HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing to schedule your furnace consultation today.
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