Should I Repair or Replace My Furnace?


Consider these factors when deciding between repairing or replacing a dying furnace.

Here’s the situation: it’s cold outside, and your furnace isn’t working properly. So, what do you do?

Furnaces are a big investment for homeowners. And when yours is acting up, it can be stressful deciding between having yours repaired or replaced. So, if you’ve had your furnace for a while and you’re wondering which choice is the right one, we’re here to help.

While everybody’s situation is different, the three major factors to take into consideration when deciding between repairing and replacing a furnace include:

  • The age and condition of your furnace
  • The cost of the repair
  • Changes in your energy bills and comfort

This article will go over the factors mentioned above to help you make the best choice for your unique situation.


Rather speak directly with a heating and cooling expert?

Call Four Seasons at 503-538-1950 today. Our comfort specialists will answer all your questions with honest, educated advice. We offer a wide range of heating systems, flexible financing, and unmatched guarantees at the best prices possible.

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The Age and Condition of Your Furnace

Is your furnace turning 15 years old? It might be time to replace it.

The age of your furnace should be the first factor to consider deciding between making repairs on your furnace or replacing it with a new one.

If your furnace is over 15 years old, it could be approaching the end of its lifespan, and you’re better off replacing it than wasting hundreds of dollars on repairs that may only keep it working for a short while longer.

If your furnace is 10 years old or less, making repairs should suffice unless your furnace has consistently serious issues.

A well-maintained furnace can last anywhere between 15 and 20 years. A furnace’s lifespan will depend on its usage and maintenance over the years, but keeping up with annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs when necessary can extend a furnace’s life.

For example, a furnace that a professional HVAC technician has regularly maintained on an annual basis will likely last longer than a furnace that hasn’t. However, while furnace maintenance will help keep your system operating efficiently, no furnace lasts forever.

One great way to ensure your furnace operates safely and efficiently is with annual maintenance by a professional HVAC technician. It’s also important to change your filters regularly. Investing in regular furnace maintenance can:

  • Help your system perform more efficiently
  • Decrease heating bills
  • Prolong the lifespan of your heating system
  • Decrease the chance of costly repairs
  • Keep your warranty valid
  • Help to eliminate the risk of unexpected repairs
  • Ensure the system is running without risk to your health or safety

The Cost of the Repair

Does the furnace repair cost 50% or more of a new system? It’s time to replace your furnace.

A high repair bill is likely the most significant reason a homeowner would choose a replacement system over a repair. But how high of a cost is high enough to justify a full replacement?

When the cost to repair your furnace is more than half a new installation's cost, you should replace it.

For example, your furnace requires a hefty repair which will cost around $1,700. Let’s say a new furnace would cost you around $2,500. So, in this scenario, a repair would cost more than half the cost of a brand new furnace. In this case, it would be much more cost effective to replace your old furnace entirely instead of paying for repairs.

Another factor to take into consideration is how often your furnace needs repairs. While some wear-and-tear is normal, you shouldn’t find yourself regularly calling an HVAC professional for repairs. If you’ve needed numerous repairs over the past 2 years, you should consider replacing your furnace rather than pouring more money into a dying system.

Changes In Your Energy Bills and Comfort

Is your furnace not able to keep your home warm? It might be time to replace it.

The older your furnace is, the less efficient it becomes, and the more you’ll end up paying in energy costs every month. So, if your energy bills have steadily increased over the last couple of years, it may be time to replace your furnace.

As furnaces age, they lose their efficiency and often require more energy to produce the same amount of heat as when they were newer. Older furnaces also have a more difficult time distributing heat evenly throughout your home, which can cause your energy bills to fluctuate from month to month.

When your furnace becomes inefficient, it may be in your best financial interest to replace it with a new, high-efficiency furnace to reduce your operating costs.


Want Honest Furnace Repair or Replacement Advice From a Portland Pro? Contact Four Seasons.

Two Four Seasons Heating & Air Conditioning executives in branded jackets standing side by side in an office, holding awards

Four Seasons is the company you can rely on for high-quality furnace repairs and replacements.

At Four Seasons, our number one goal is to help you choose the best repair or replacement option for your heating needs and budget. That’s why when you contact our team of comfort advisors, you can trust that you’ll never endure sales pressure to buy any equipment you don’t want or need.

Since 1979, we’ve offered Northwest homeowners the best prices and customer service possible. At every stage of your furnace repair or replacement, you can count on us to delight you with 100% satisfaction— guaranteed. With easy financing options and same-day service by NATE-certified technicians, give us a call and see why Portland homeowners have left us so many 5-star reviews.

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