While there are many options you could choose from for your home heating system, few are more reliable than an oil furnace. Still, even the best system will need to be replaced eventually. How can you know if the time has come to replace your furnace? While most homeowners don’t ask this question until they’re in need of repairs, this isn’t the only deciding factor.

Deciding Whether to Repair or Replace

When you find your oil furnace in need of repairs, it’s only natural to wonder whether you should replace your system entirely. In general, minor repairs, like a malfunctioning thermostat or low airflow, don’t warrant a replacement, especially with a newer unit. For furnaces less than 12 years old, any repairs that are less than one-third of the price of a new unit also mean it is still okay to keep.

The more serious the repairs, the more likely you will need to replace your furnace, especially if it is older than 15 years. Damage to the heat exchanger or control module can be expensive and even dangerous. Any time repairs approach half the cost of a replacement unit, you’re likely better off buying a new system.

Looking at Other Factors

Even if your furnace currently seems to be operating fine, there are a few factors that may indicate that you’ll need to buy a new unit soon. Furnaces have an average lifespan of 16 to 20 years. If you’ve experienced a higher-than-average number of breakdowns and other repair issues in recent years, your unit is likely on its last legs. 

You should also be on the lookout for rising energy bills, unusual noises, or a yellow (instead of blue) burner flame. These warning signs mean that it is likely time for a replacement.

Even a brand new oil furnace is only as good as the heating oil inside it. With Andersen Oil Company, in Ledyard, CT, you’ll benefit from convenient and affordable delivery of high-quality oil. With 24-hour emergency services available, you can depend on them to meet your needs. To learn more about their services in New London County, visit them online or call (860) 464-7628.