3 Factors To Help Homeowners Decide Whether To Continue Using An Older Furnace Or Opt To Install A New One
When a furnace fails or seems to need constant repairs, it is easy for homeowners to make the decision to install a new one. But it can much more difficult for homeowners to decide to replace an existing furnace that is old but still functional. If your home is currently heated by a furnace that seems to be working well but is at or past its expected lifespan, here are some important factors to help you choose whether the time is right to move ahead with a new furnace installation.
When switching heat type offers benefits
An important reason to consider the installation of a new furnace, instead of continuing to use your current one, is to take advantage of a different type of heat. For example, in areas where electricity rates are rising dramatically, homeowners may find that switching to a gas or oil furnace could help them stabilize or reduce future heating costs. Homeowners who are considering the installation of a new furnace to take advantage of a more economical type of heat will need to carefully consider the entire cost for the project. This cost includes the new furnace, the cost of installing fuel lines, storage tanks, and any other changes that may be needed for the conversion, as well as the projected cost of the new heating fuel type.
When the home will be put up for sale
While replacing a furnace can be costly, homeowners who are planning to put their home up for sale may find that installing a new furnace can help them improve their selling experience. Buyers often look at the age and condition of the heating system of each home they are considering as part of their selection process and are likely to see a new furnace as a benefit.
When additional space will need to be heated
Another reason to move ahead with replacing a functional furnace is when the home is being expanded and there will be more square footage to heat. Furnaces are specifically sized for the square footage of the interior living spaces at the time of installation. While your existing furnace may be perfectly suited to heat your home now, it may not be large enough to comfort the entire interior living spaces after an expansion has occurred. Homeowners who are planning to finish additional space inside their home or add additional living space by expanding the structure will want to discuss their plans with a trusted furnace repair and installation contractor to determine if installing a larger furnace is a wise plan.