When to Repair vs Replace Your Furnace

Your furnace is one of the most important systems in your home, keeping you warm through Alberta’s long, cold winters. When it starts showing signs of trouble, many homeowners face the same question: should you repair it or replace it? The answer depends on factors like age, cost of repairs, and efficiency.

How Long Do Furnaces Last in Alberta

Most furnaces last between 15 and 20 years when properly maintained. Alberta’s harsh winters, however, put heavy demand on heating systems, which can shorten their lifespan. If your furnace is over 15 years old, replacement may be worth considering, especially if repairs are becoming frequent.

When Furnace Repairs Are the Right Choice

Repairs often make sense if your furnace is still relatively new and the issues are minor. Examples include:

• Furnaces under 10 years old with only occasional problems

• Simple fixes like replacing a thermostat or blower motor

• Systems that are still energy efficient and heating the home consistently

In these cases, repair costs are manageable, and the furnace still has years of reliable service left.

Signs It’s Time for a Replacement

Replacement is often the smarter long-term choice when:

• The furnace is more than 15–20 years old

• Repairs are frequent and becoming more expensive

• Energy bills are rising due to poor efficiency

• The system struggles to heat the home evenly or consistently

Investing in a new unit eliminates the cycle of costly repairs while providing better performance.

Comparing Costs of Repair and Replacement

A good rule of thumb is the 50 percent rule: if the repair costs more than half the price of a new furnace, replacement is usually the better option. While replacement has a higher upfront cost, the long term savings from lower energy bills and fewer service calls often outweigh short-term repair savings.

Efficiency Benefits of a New Furnace

Modern furnaces are designed to be far more energy efficient than older models. Energy Star furnaces can reduce heating bills by as much as 15 percent compared to older systems. For Alberta homeowners, where heating accounts for a large portion of utility bills, this efficiency improvement quickly adds up.

Professional Guidance for Alberta Homeowners

Deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace isn’t always simple. A professional assessment can help you understand the true condition of your system and weigh the costs against long-term value. Jurassic Mechanical provides expert heating services and reliable furnace installation to keep Alberta homes warm and efficient all winter.

For inspections, repairs, or replacement advice, reach out to Jurassic Mechanical today.