Should you repair or replace your furnace?

How old is it?

Most furnaces last somewhere around 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance. If yours is well within that range, a repair is usually the sensible choice. Once it's near or past the end of that range, it's worth getting a replacement price alongside the repair quote.

How big is the repair?

A common rule of thumb: if a repair costs a large share of what a new system would, and the furnace is already old, replacement often makes more sense. Small repairs like an igniter, flame sensor, or thermostat are usually worth doing even on an older unit.

How often has it needed work?

One repair in several years isn't a warning sign. Several service calls in the last couple of winters often means more are coming.

Is it keeping you comfortable?

Uneven temperatures between rooms, rising energy bills, or a system that runs constantly can all point to a furnace that's wearing out or the wrong size for the home.

Would a different system suit you better?

Replacement is a chance to reconsider what you heat with. Depending on your climate, fuel costs, and whether you want air conditioning, a heat pump or a dual-fuel setup (a heat pump paired with a gas furnace) may be worth pricing. Many utilities offer rebates for efficient equipment, so ask what's available locally.

What to ask a contractor

• What exactly failed, and what caused it?
• What would the repair cost, and what would a replacement cost?
• How many more years would you expect after this repair?
• Are there rebates or financing for a new system?
• Is the replacement sized with a load calculation, or based on the old unit?