When you’re bundled up for a cold winter’s night, you want your heating system to fire on all cylinders. If you experience an issue with your heater, it’s normal to want to call in your local HVAC technicians in Syracuse, NY, to handle the job quickly. However, have you found yourself calling them in more frequently than you’re used to and continue to see those repair bills rise higher and higher? Knowing precisely when to repair or replace your HVAC system can be challenging, but we’re here to help guide you to the best decision!
How Do I Decide Whether to Repair My Furnace or if it’s Time to Replace It?
Knowing whether you should repair or replace your HVAC system has always proven a more nuanced question than it initially appears. Various factors influence this decision, and knowing which ones apply to your system will be crucial to your decision. Here are some of the most common and important factors that affect whether you should repair or replace your heating system.
Its Age
The overall age of your heating system will play a significant role in whether you need repairs or a full replacement. For newer models, unless the unit has suffered a catastrophic failure and has zero hope of being fixed, routine repairs should be enough to keep it up and running for the long haul. However, the older your system gets, the more often you may need to have an experienced technician take a look.
Older models have years of wear and tear on their components, affecting their overall performance and how frequently it needs maintenance. At a certain point, the frequency and cost of repairs exceed a reasonable threshold, and getting a brand-new system becomes more cost-effective. A well-maintained heating system can last you upwards of 20 years, but any time after the 12-year mark, you should begin preparing for a replacement.
The Frequency of Repairs
Every homeowner should expect to have their heating system repaired at some point over its lifespan. It’s a heavily relied-upon piece of technology that helps keep your home moving in the winter months. However, how often those repairs are needed provides vital clues as to when you should consider a full replacement.
If it’s been a few years in between your most recent repair call, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about going with a full replacement. However, if you find those repair calls becoming much more frequent, it could be a sign that your system is reaching its last legs. Additionally, if the total cost of repairs is creeping up toward the cost of buying a new one outright, it’s time to consider making a change.
Noticeable Shift in Energy Bills
After homeowners have been in their homes for a few winters, they have a general idea of what their energy bills should look like throughout the winter. However, those numbers stem from a heating system running as efficiently as it should. When your system experiences inefficiency and has to work harder to provide the same level of comfort that you have come to expect, it’s time to consider an upgrade.
Sometimes addressing these troubling efficiency trends can be as simple as updating your thermostat or fixing your ductwork. However, if these quick fixes aren’t making a discernible improvement, then it’s time to consult a furnace and boiler expert in Syracuse, NY.
Contact Hummingbird Heating & Cooling for Your Heating Repair and Replacement Needs
Whether you need to repair or replace your heating system, you need to get the right team for the job. Knowing which path works best for your home requires a seasoned professional helping you every step of the way to ensure you’re making the best decisions possible. Hummingbird Heating & Cooling is here to help our clients find the right solution for their homes and stay nice and cozy all winter long. Contact us to request your initial estimate and schedule your next service call today!
