Heating Repair vs. Heating Installation: Which is Right for You?
If your heating system isn’t working correctly, you have a few different options: heating repair or heating installation. Both options have pros and cons, so it can be challenging to decide which is the right choice for you. In this blog post, Coastal Climate Experts will discuss the pros and cons of heating repair vs. heating installation so that you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your home.
Factors for you to consider in heating repair vs heating installation
There are numerous factors to consider when weighing whether to repair or replace your heating system. You must consider the age, condition, and efficiency of your system, as well as your heating bill and how frequently you need to repair your system. Your home’s air quality and how effectively it can be heated also need to be considered. Finally, you must think about your budget and what sort of repairs or replacements you can afford. All of these factors will determine whether repair or replacement is proper for you.
How old is your system?
One of the most important factors to consider is the age of your heating system. If your system is more than 15 years old, it’s likely that repairs will be needed more frequently and that replacement parts will be harder to come by. Additionally, an older system is likely to be less efficient than a newer one, meaning higher heating bills. If your system is on the cusp of needing replacement, it may be worth investing in a new one now rather than paying for frequent repairs.
What condition is your system in?
Even if your system is relatively new, it may still be in poor condition. This condition can be due to a number of factors, including incorrect installation, lack of maintenance, or damage from severe weather. If your system is in poor condition, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than attempt to repair it.
What are the price estimates to repair your system?
If the price to repair your heating system is 50% or less of the cost of a new installation, it may be worth repairing your current system. However, if the repair costs are close to the cost of a new installation, you may want to consider a replacement.
What is your heating usage?
Do you use your heating system frequently or only occasionally? If you only use your heating system a few times each year, it may not be worth repairing or replacing the system. However, if you use your heating system on a daily basis, it is likely worth repairing or replacing your heating system.
Do you hear strange noises from your heater?
If you hear strange noises coming from your heating system, it is likely time for a repair or replacement. These noises may be indicative of a problem with the system. Possible reasons for strange noises include:
- An issue with the fuel ignition
- Clogged or dirty air filters
- Loose ducts
- A loose blower fan
- Cracked heat exchanger
- Sediment build-up (in a water heater)
- Worn out fan belt
- A leak
If you hear any of these noises, then maintenance or repair is necessary. Compounding factors like the age and condition of the system could necessitate a replacement of your heating system.
Is your heater less efficient than it used to be?
If your heating bills have increased, but the temperature in your home feels the same, then inefficiency is to blame. Inefficiency may be caused by:
- Dirty air filters
- Leaking ductwork
- An undersized heating system
- A cracked heat exchanger
- Sediment build-up (in a water heater)
- Worn out fan belt
- A leak
If you have any of these problems, then maintenance or repair is necessary. Compounding factors like the age and condition of the system could necessitate a replacement of your heating system.
Are your heating bills higher?
If your heating costs have risen out of proportion to your usage, then that is a sign that you should probably replace your heating system. If your energy bills suddenly and unexpectedly rise, you may need a more efficient heating system. Old heating systems are less energy efficient than new systems, and heating systems only get less energy efficient with age.
If your heating system needs repairs because it has an estimated service life of more than 15 years and the cost of fixes exceeds half the value of a replacement, go for a new system. When it comes to buying a new heating system, you’ll want to find one that’s more efficient. There are several reasons for high power bills, ranging from basic difficulties such as clogged filters to complex issues like electrical ignition or pilot control malfunctions. Have an expert in the field of heater repair check your system before making a decision.
Do you have to repair your heater frequently?
If you’ve been heating your home for a while, it’s likely that at some point, you’ve had to call in a heating repair technician. While heaters can last for many years, they can sometimes break down, especially if they’re not properly maintained. If your heater is starting to show signs of wear and tear, or if it’s been breaking down more frequently, you may be wondering whether it’s time to repair or replace it. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision:
- The age of your heater: If your heater is more than 15 years old, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it. Newer models are much more energy-efficient, and they may come with features that weren’t available when your current heater was manufactured.
- The severity of the problem: If your heater is starting to make strange noises or isn’t heating your home as well as it used to, a repair may be all that’s needed. However, if the problem is more serious, such as a cracked heat exchanger, it’s probably time to replace the unit.
- The cost of the repair: In some cases, the cost of repairing your heater may be almost as much as buying a new one. If this is the case, it’s probably wiser to invest in a new heating system.
Is your home’s heating unbalanced?
If certain rooms in your home are too hot or too cold, it may be a sign that your heating system is unbalanced. You can often solve this problem by adjusting the vents in each room. However, if this doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to replace your heater.
Is your indoor air quality poor?
If you have noticed that your indoor air quality is poor, it could be due to your heating system. An old or inefficient heater can circulate dust and other allergens throughout your home. If you have asthma or allergies, this can be a severe problem. A new heating system can help improve your indoor air quality.
Find out whether your should repair or replace with Coastal Climate Experts
Not sure when it comes to heating repair vs heating installation? The best way to get the most out of your heating system is to call Coastal Climate Experts. We have served Melbourne, Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, and surrounding areas for over a decade by offering fair prices and exceptional service. Our company works with all types of systems, and we dedicate ourselves to establishing a lasting relationship with our customers. Contact us today to figure out whether repair or replacement of your heating system is right for you.