How to Decide: Repair or Replace Your Heating System
January 26, 2024
Are you having problems with your heating system? Maybe your energy bills have significantly gone up or you’re noticing that your home just isn’t as comfortable as it should be. Unfortunately, there are still a few more months left in winter and your heating system may be in need of repairs. With the coldest month of the year right around the corner, any issues you’re experiencing now will only get worse before the season ends.
In some cases, however, repairs just aren’t enough to fix the problem, and getting a replacement is the best option. If you’re having troubles deciding between repairing or replacing your heater, don’t worry about it because the Brower Mechanical team is here for you. Not only do we offer comprehensive installation, repair and maintenance services on furnaces and heat pumps, but we can also provide professional advice on repairing or replacing heating systems.
Furnace Repairs? Try These First
The last thing any homeowner wants to go through is a broken heater in the dead of winter. Before making the call for furnace or heat pump repairs, however, we recommend a few DIY troubleshooting steps to make sure the issue isn’t a quick fix:
Correct thermostat settings: Your heating system should be set to “on” or “heat”, not “fan”.
Your circuit breaker: If your heating system won’t turn on at all, ensure it hasn’t tripped a breaker.
A clean air filter: Dirty air filters can make your heating system work harder than it needs to. Air filters should typically be changed every 30-60 days.
Vents are clear of obstructions: Airflow restrictions can overwork your heating system, all vents should be clear of furniture, plants, and other obstructions.
Pilot light is on (for gas furnaces): If you don’t feel comfortable checking the gas connections to your furnace, our team can handle that for you!
If your heating system is still having issues after you’ve completed these steps, give Brower Mechanical a call. Our team is available 24/7 for emergency services and we can help find a reliable solution for whatever problem you may be experiencing.
Repairing vs. Replacing Heating Equipment
While it’s impossible to tell what your HVAC equipment needs without a professional inspection, there are a few factors to consider when repairing or replacing a heating system.
Equipment Age
While most HVAC systems have a lifespan of up to 20 years, they will become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns as they age. In general, if your heating system is over a decade old and constantly needs repairs, a replacement might be the best option in the long run.
Frequency & Cost of Repairs
Have you had to repair your heating system more than once in the past year? In some cases, heating system repairs won’t get your equipment back to 100%, but just prolong the inevitable replacement. Also, if the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of a new system, a replacement will most likely be the most cost-effective long-term heating system solution for you.
Heating System Performance
If your heating system is consistently struggling to keep up with demand, its wise to replace your heating system before it breaks down at the least convenient time. Some signs that your HVAC has low performance can include short cycling (constantly turning off and on) or having troubles reaching your desired temperature. The expert team at Brower Mechanical can determine the source of the problem and help you make the best decision for your home’s heating needs.
Available Incentives
There are several rebates and tax credits available for efficient heating system upgrades in the Greater Sacramento area that can make a replacement more affordable. From federal tax credits that cover 30% of the total cost to rebates from local utilities like SMUD, PG&E, and Roseville Electric, incentives can significantly lower the cost of a heating system replacement.
Annual Maintenance: The Key to a Long-Lasting Heating System
Whether you decide to repair or replace, maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your heating system. Not only does this crucial service ensure that your system is operating at peak performance, but it also allows our team to fix small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Brower Mechanical offers Maintenance Agreements that can give you peace of mind with annual tune-ups before peak season, diagnostic reports, and more.
Brower Mechanical: Your Sacramento & Placer County Heating Experts
We’ve been providing our community with a full range of heating and cooling services since 1979, becoming a local leader in energy efficiency and HVAC services. Our team is highly trained in building science principles and uses a whole-home approach to solving issues. We won’t just try to sell you a new system when you don’t need it, but instead will find the most effective and long-lasting solution that meets your needs and budget.
