Like all HVAC equipment and large home appliances, furnaces have a shelf life. As you approach the winter months, it's important for homeowners to know when it’s time to opt for a new furnace installation. Here are a few factors that might indicate it's time to go beyond just temporary repairs and shop for a new home heating system. 

When to Opt for a New Furnace Installation

It's Almost 15 Years Old

Most furnaces are built to last somewhere between 12 and 15 years. If yours is getting close to that outer age limit, you might be doing yourself a favor in the long run by replacing it before the appliance starts to experience costly, ongoing problems. 

It Needs Major Repairs

Another opportune time to consider replacing your old furnace is if it breaks down and is in need of significant repairs. A general industry rule of thumb for a new furnace installation is, if the unit is three-quarters through its total shelf life—around a decade for many furnaces—, and the repairs will cost you one-third of the price of a complete replacement, go with the replacement. 

It's Consistently Underperforming

Of course, if an older furnace continues to heat your home well and never requires repairs, then there's a strong argument to keep it for another couple of years. If you do start to notice the unit no longer heats your home as well as it used to, however, opting for a new furnace installation could make for a much more comfortable winter season. 

For 70 years residents of the greater Cincinnati, OH, area have come to rely on the team at Reading Heating & Air Conditioning for top-quality HVAC services. The experienced technicians handle everything from furnace installations and repairs to AC work, and they also offer 24/7 emergency repair service for those in a serious jam. Visit their website to learn more about how the team can keep your home warm all winter long, or call directly at (513) 821-1633.