Summer is an ideal time to address any issues concerning your home’s furnace that persisted all winter. Not only do you have time to save any funds needed for major work, but Barkley Blevins Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning in Lexington, KY, warns that any ductwork issues that you have over the summer can further damage your heater while it’s not in use. This means that once colder weather rolls around, your furnace might not be up to the task of heating your home, putting you in an unnecessary time crunch.

Their experts have shared troubleshooting tips to help homeowners determine whether their furnace will need to be repaired or replaced this summer.

Furnace Repair vs. Replacement

Signs You Need a Repair

The average life expectancy of a furnace is between 15 and 20 years. If your model is less than 10 years old, then it’s likely that a repair can solve any issues that you’re having. Your appliance will naturally lose its efficiency as it ages, and proper maintenance along with regular repairs will help to restore its longevity.

If your furnace isn’t heating as efficiently as it once did, a routine HVAC maintenance check should be able to determine whether simply upgrading your thermostat or improving your home’s ductwork will improve its efficiency.

Are your energy bills higher than usual lately? Before replacing your unit, perform a quick inspection to see if a quick repair is the right solution. For example, replacing your air filters every one to three months will help boost your system’s efficiency by reducing the amount of time it needs to run.

Signs You Need a Replacement

If you’ve noticed a trending increase in your energy bills each month, your furnace likely will need to be replaced.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your furnace’s energy efficiency drops to 78% AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) after about 20 years of use. It’s best to have your system replaced if it’s nearing its 18^th birthday, as you likely won’t be able to extend its longevity long enough to warrant a repair.

Additionally, if a repair will cost more than one-third of the cost of a new furnace, then it’s more prudent to schedule a replacement. Depending on the size of your home and type of system needed, your new equipment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $8,000.

If you’re in need of a furnace repair or replacement, turn to Lexington, KY’s longtime experts. Barkley Blevins Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning has been serving commercial, residential, and industrial clients throughout Fayette County for more than 125 years. They attribute their success to timely arrival for appointments, friendly customer service, and staying up-to-date on the latest techniques and industry innovations. Learn more about their HVAC repair and emergency services online, or call (859) 252-3519 to speak with a member of their team.