When to Replace or Repair Your Gas Furnace in Oregon

When your gas furnace is broken, a furnace repair might be your first thought. But there are times when it makes more sense to replace the furnace. ​

Keep reading for a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know when deciding between a gas furnace and a replacement. We’ll explain:​

• How long do furnaces last?
• Signs your furnace needs to be repaired or replaced
• When you should have your furnace repaired
• When you should have your furnace replaced

Taking the time to research this could help you make a more fiscally responsible choice and save money in the long run. ​

Key Takeaways:

• Gas furnaces typically last between 15 and 20 years, depending on maintenance and usage.
• A malfunctioning gas furnace can be dangerous. Leave your home and seek immediate help if you smell gas, have headaches or nausea, or hear your carbon monoxide detector sound off.
• A furnace replacement is sometimes the better choice, especially if your furnace is older, frequently breaks down, or requires an extremely expensive repair.

Here are some of the warning signs that your furnace is going to need a repair (or replacement) soon:

• Performance and comfort symptoms:
  • Uneven heating
  • Longer run times
  • Trouble reaching the set temperature
  • Short-cycling (turning on/off frequently)
  • Weak airflow from vents
• Cost and reliability red flags:
  • Heating bills are trending up without a clear reason
  • Increasingly frequent repairs or repeat failures (same part or same problem arising)
• Sound/smell/operation clues that warrant a call:
  • New or worsening noises (rattling, squealing, booming)
  • Persistent burning smells
  • Soot/dust issues
  • Visible rust/corrosion
• Safety-oriented cues to treat as urgent:
  • Gas odor
  • Symptoms like headaches/nausea
  • A carbon monoxide alarm is sounding

Note that if you notice any of these urgent warning signs, you need to leave the home and call emergency services immediately.

Some of the scenarios where repair is typically the smarter move are:

• The furnace is relatively newer and has a solid maintenance history.
• The issue is isolated, and the rest of the system is performing normally.
• The repair cost is reasonable compared to replacement, and the unit isn’t experiencing repeated breakdowns.

Of course, it’s essential to understand what a “reasonable” cost looks like. You should always compare the repair cost to the remaining expected life.

Additionally, if the furnace is still under warranty, repairs often pencil out better.

Here’s what you can expect from a quality repair visit:

• A root-cause diagnosis
• Basic safety checks
• Airflow review
• Recommended maintenance steps

Four Seasons has NATE-certified technicians who are experts at diagnosing and fixing any gas furnace issue.

Here are some of the everyday situations where a furnace replacement is recommended:

• The furnace is in (or beyond) the typical end-of-life range, and reliability is slipping.
• Repair frequency is increasing.
• You’ve had multiple repairs in a short time.
• Repairs are expensive, and the system still struggles with comfort or efficiency afterward.
• A major component failure means the repair cost approaches a significant portion of the price of a new system.

Some quality-of-life reasons can justify replacement sooner, such as:

• Persistent hot/cold rooms that haven’t improved with repairs
• Noise issues that indicate overall wear
• Desire for better efficiency, comfort control, or adding cooling

Before you jump into purchasing a new gas furnace, consider your options. For example, Oregon’s climate can make heat pumps a practical upgrade for many homes.

Also, note that the condition of your ductwork will play a significant role. If ductwork improvements are required, the cost of your furnace replacement may increase.

Finally, as you assess your replacement options, remember to consider the following:

• Load sizing considerations so you can avoid oversizing/short cycling
• Options that match your budget
• Comfort priorities
• Warranties
• Maintenance plan option