When Should You Replace Your Furnace: 7 Tips for Homeowners
A furnace is expected to last 15-20 years, 20-30 years with maintenance and extra repairs. So, when is it time to replace your furnace? Homeowners are constantly wondering if they should upgrade, invest in repairs, or install a new energy-efficient model.
The experts at Shamrock HVAC are here to help with the Homeowner’s Guide for When to Replace Your Furnace. Figure out if repairs are better, if you’re on your last legs, or if the latest models are the right choice to improve home comfort and efficiency.
In Maryland? Call Shamrock HVAC for professional advice. We also offer a $90 heating and cooling check to advise on exactly what your home needs. Stop guessing and feel better about home heating.
How Long Does a Furnace Last
Most furnaces last 15–20 years. Gas furnaces will last closer to 20 years, while electric will last closer to 15 years. Some furnaces, with regular maintenance and repairs, may last 20 to 30 years, although it is a greater investment in upkeep.
If your furnace is over 15 years old, you want to start thinking about upgrading your furnace to avoid unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs. Getting ahead of a furnace replacement helps avoid a home without heat.
Top Signs You Should Replace Your Furnace
1. You Need Frequent Repairs
If you’re calling for furnace repairs more than once a year, or furnace repairs cost more than 40% of a new furnace, a new replacement is the smarter choice. If you notice breakdowns during cold weather, constantly replacing major parts, or strange noises you can’t fix, it is advised to get a new furnace estimate.
2. Your Energy Bills Keep Going Up
An old furnace burns more fuel to heat your home. If you notice your heating bill has increased in the last two or three winters, and nothing else has changed, your furnace may be the problem. This is why it is advised to replace old furnaces, so you can improve home efficiency.
Are energy bills rising, but it’s not the furnace? Get our expert tips on how to reduce energy bills this winter.
3. Uneven Temperatures in Your Home
If you notice cold spots or cold rooms, even when the furnace is on, it means there is a problem with your furnace. It could be weak airflow, a worn-out blower, duct issues, or general efficiency problems. It could even be because your furnace is blowing cold air.
While some furnace repairs can take care of cold spots, you want to consider a new replacement to maintain steady heating without all the troubleshooting.
4. Your Home Takes Forever to Warm Up
If the furnace runs and constantly cycles but your home stays cool, the system is likely losing power. A weak furnace is usually beyond basic repairs. While there are some repairs that may be attempted, a newer furnace is a better way to improve home heating.
See 7 Easy Furnace Maintenance Tips for Common Furnace Issues to be sure before you call for a furnace replacement.
5. Poor Air Quality
Have you been feeling sick or stuffy lately, or noticed an increase in allergy symptoms? Yes, an old furnace could be the cause of poor home air quality.
This is because an old furnace will blow more dust, dry out your air, and spread allergens. Newer furnaces have installations in place to improve your home’s air quality, with better filters for better breathability.
6. Yellow or Flickering Burner Flame (Gas Furnaces)
The furnace flame should be steady and blue. A yellow flame can mean the furnace is not burning fuel well, carbon monoxide may be present, or there’s a dangerous ventilation issue. If the flame is yellow or flickering, you want to call a professional right away. Do not troubleshoot furnace repairs; ask for urgent service.
7. Carbon Monoxide Detector Alerts
If your CO detector has gone off, and other sources are ruled out, your furnace may be cracked inside. This requires immediate attention and usually a full replacement. Never mess around with CO detection. A newer furnace is advised.
Repairing vs Replacing a Furnace
Not all furnace repairs require a new furnace replacement. The right home heating company can help you troubleshoot the issue and decide what the better cost investment is: a new furnace replacement or continued furnace repairs.
Furnace repairs will likely be recommended if:
- Your furnace is under 10 years old
- The problem is small (thermostat issue, clogged filter, ignition sensor)
- The repair cost is low
- The furnace still heats your home
Benefits of Replacing Your Furnace
While the upfront cost of replacing an old furnace may give you sticker shock, the long-term savings and immediate home comfort improvement are worth it. Don’t keep insisting on fixing an old furnace if a new furnace could improve your home.
Lower Energy Bills: Newer furnaces use far less fuel due to energy-efficient upgrades. Many homeowners save between 15% and 30% on heating costs by upgrading to a newer model.
Better Temperature Control: No more cold rooms or fighting over the thermostat. You can set the temperature and settle in for the winter, your home will heat itself without any issues.
Cleaner, Healthier Air: New units filter and circulate air much better. Your home’s comfort will be immediately noticeable.
Fewer Repairs: You’ll spend less time troubleshooting the furnace every winter and instead be able to sit back and relax. Plus, take advantage of a new replacement warranty.
Higher Home Value: Yes, a new furnace dramatically improves your home’s value, as a new buyer does not need to worry about furnace repairs or imminent replacements.
Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?
Are you ready to upgrade your furnace? Tired of cold spots in your home, endless repairs, and spending the first weeks of winter making sure the heat won’t fail?
Shamrock HVAC in Maryland is available to help with a new furnace replacement. We know you can’t be sitting at home in the cold, waiting for the heat to kick on as a cold front moves into town. Call today to speak with our friendly techs and see how we can help make a new furnace replacement affordable and easy.
Furnace Replacement • Heating Repair • Thermostat Upgrades • Total HVAC Services
Serving Maryland
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my furnace is too old?
Most furnaces last 15–20 years. If your furnace is approaching 20 years or older, a newer furnace replacement can provide better heating, improve air quality, and lower energy bills.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a furnace?
If your furnace repairs cost more than 40% of a new furnace, replacement is usually the better choice. A newer furnace can also cut back on service fees, high energy bills, and cold spots in your home.
Will a new furnace lower my energy bills?
Yes. New furnaces often cut heating costs by 15–30% due to newer technology that prioritizes energy efficiency.
How long does furnace installation take?
A furnace installation can be done in 4 to 8 hours, depending on home specifics like space, connection points, and more.
Do I need to replace my ductwork with a new furnace installation?
You only need to upgrade your ductwork if the ductwork has air flow issues, blockages, or other damage.
Can I finance a furnace replacement?
Talk to your local HVAC company about financing options and state or county assistance programs. New energy-efficient furnace installations may qualify for money back or other grants.
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Get in Touch with Shamrock HVAC Services
- 3932A Ten Oaks Rd #F Dayton, MD 21036
- Office: (301) 854-3495
- Fax: (301) 854-3497
- shamrockservicehvac@gmail.com
- Serving Maryland and Northern Virginia