If your heating system has annual maintenance, it can last 20 years. Beyond 20 years, your heating system loses efficiency and parts become obsolete. Current heating systems are more energy-efficient which saves on gas and electric costs. The national average for a full furnace installation is $4820 to $9350. This includes the furnace itself, labor fees, ductwork, removal, and disposal of the old furnace, as well as other installation costs or upgrades included. The average cost to replace a gas furnace with a standard-efficiency, 80,000 BTU model in a 1500 square foot home is $4360.
Comfort
The ideal temperature in winter is 68 degrees when the home is occupied. Energy.gov recommends that the heat be lowered while you are asleep or away. Hot or cold spots in some parts of the home indicates the duct work is failing, not ghosts haunting. Cleaning the ducts will not fix the issues. A rising heat bill is a sign of heater inefficiency that fights against the duct work or the furnace itself. Perpetual cold indicates time to replace the heating system.
Frequent is a nonspecific term. If you must fix the heating system every 2 years, start saving for a replacement system. If you must fix the heating system more often than every 2 years, it is time to replace the system. Repairs every winter add up. Don’t get caught with no heat in the winter.
Sickness
Frequent sickness in the household can indicate a problem with the heating system. Flu and cold season thrive in cold temperatures. Inefficient heating systems push out dry air that can lower immunity. Improperly distributed heat will make you sick too.
Home warranty
A home warranty can help substantially when it comes to furnace repair and replacement. With coverage for your heating system, you won’t have to bear the full burden if your furnace breaks down. For the cost of a monthly premium and a low service call fee, you can have the peace of mind of knowing you won’t need to pay full price to have a broken furnace replaced. Here are our top three recommendations for home warranty companies, all of which offer coverage for heating systems regardless of age:
- American Home Shield: Best Overall
- Choice Home Warranty: Best Basic Plan
- Liberty Home Guard: Most Responsive