As the fall chill starts to settle in, you’ve probably turned on your furnace to restore the warmth to your home. During seasons of heavy use, there’s always a chance that your home heating system will malfunction or stop working altogether. If it does, you’ll have to pay for repairs or invest in a brand-new unit. This guide explains the circumstances when repair makes sense and when replacement may be a better option.

When Should You Repair?

Furnaces are designed to last a long time. If your unit is less than a decade old, repairs are likely worth pursuing. If this is the first time your furnace has gone on the fritz, you may yet get years of use out of it. Choose a reputable furnace repair provider and have them investigate and address problems.

Once repairs are complete, you can minimize the chances of reoccurring problems with regular maintenance. Change the filter in your furnace according to the manufacturer’s recommendation—usually about once every three months—and have a home heating contractor inspect your unit yearly. They’ll deal with minor issues before they become significant problems.

When Should You Replace?

If your furnace is more than 12 to 15 years old, it’s probably not as energy-efficient as newer units. If your energy bills are steadily rising, a replacement will produce heat efficiently and consume less energy. In addition, an older furnace is likely to need more frequent repairs, which can be costly and inconvenient. If you’ve had your unit repaired multiple times in the past few years, consider replacing it.

If you decide that a new furnace is right for you, consult a home heating contractor to install an energy-efficient unit. Homeowners in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati count on Niceley’s Appliance Repair for home heating, AC, and appliance repairs. If you’re a DIY type, you can investigate their inventory of appliance parts at their Erlanger location. To learn more about their services and parts, visit them online, or call (859) 342-9900 to schedule a visit for appliance repair.