When Is It Time to Replace or Retrofit Your Furnace in Bozeman, MT? A furnace is an essential component of any home that requires consistent warmth throughout the year. And like any appliance, a furnace has a lifespan and requires replacement or retrofitting after several years of use when showing signs of wear and tear. From the age of the system, sudden temperature changes, high energy costs and loud noises to excessive dust and soot, these are some of the signs that it’s time for a retrofit or a furnace replacement with a new energy-efficient system.
Deciding whether to replace or retrofit your furnace depends on various factors, such as age, efficiency, and condition.
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FURNACE IN BOZEMAN, MT?
One of the primary reasons to replace a furnace is its age. The average lifespan of a furnace is around 15-20 years, and as it ages, it becomes less efficient and prone to breakdowns. After a furnace reaches its peak lifespan, it becomes harder for the system to evenly distribute heat throughout your home. This can cause a considerable spike in your energy bills each month.
If your furnace has an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of less than 80%, it’s time to consider replacing it with a more efficient model. Newer furnaces have AFUE ratings of up to 98%, which means that up to 98% of the fuel they consume converts into heat.
Excess dust and soot throughout the home indicate that your old furnace produces too much Carbon Dioxide. This soot buildup is commonly found near the furnace register and grille. A register is an air duct cover regulating airflow throughout the home. If you notice dirt or soot around the furnace register, this is a standard warning that it’s time to hire an HVAC professional.
If you have a furnace in service for ten years or less, it’s recommended to repair your old furnace to fix common issues. You can use a simple calculation to see when a furnace repair is worth it: multiply the repair cost by the furnace’s age, and if the result is less than 5,000, the repair isn’t too expensive. For example, if you have a furnace that’s seven years old and it needs some fixes to its burners that cost $400, the repair is probably worth it. (7 x 400 = 2,800.)
THE ADVANTAGES OF RETROFITTING YOUR FURNACE IN BOZEMAN, MT
Retrofitting involves modifying the current furnace system, such as adding a variable-speed blower or replacing the burner, to improve its performance and efficiency. A furnace retrofit can be a better option than a furnace replacement when the existing furnace is still relatively new and in good working condition. However, it needs modifications to improve its efficiency or meet new regulatory requirements.
The main advantage of retrofitting is that the cost is significantly lower than replacing the furnace. A retrofit may be preferable if the existing furnace is a custom or high-end unit that would be difficult or expensive to replace.
WHEN A FURNACE REPLACEMENT IS THE BETTER CHOICE
However, there are also cases where a furnace replacement may be the better choice. For example, if the existing furnace is old and inefficient or requires extensive repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace the furnace rather than retrofit it.
Additionally, if the existing furnace is too small for the home or if the homeowner wants to switch to a different type of furnace, such as from oil to gas, a replacement may be necessary.
CONCLUSION
Ultimately, the decision to retrofit or change out a furnace depends on various factors, such as the condition of the existing furnace, the cost of the retrofit or replacement, and the homeowner’s preferences and goals. Although retrofitting your furnace is a more cost-effective option, it may not be as effective as replacing your furnace in terms of efficiency and performance. It’s always a good idea to consult a licensed HVAC contractor to assess your options and make an informed decision.
FURNACE ON THE FRITZ? CALL COMFORT SYSTEMS OF MONTANA
Comfort Systems of Montana is Veteran-and family-owned HVAC company that has been offering heating and cooling services since 1999. Our skilled NATE-certified technicians have the expertise and experience to diagnose and fix any furnace problem. We specialize in furnace retrofitting and replacement services. Our team is committed to performing the highest quality work to ensure your 100% satisfaction.
We are a Factory-Authorized Carrier Dealer that works on all make and models of HVAC equipment. When you sign up for our Comfort Club Membership (maintenance plan), you’ll receive an inspection and cleaning of your heating system. We’ll complete a comprehensive check to ensure that every part works. If it’s not, we’ll recommend a repair or replacement. You’ll get 15% off all labor, parts, and more as a member.
Contact Comfort Systems of Montana if you’re looking for a reliable heating company that services Big Sky, Bozeman, Livingston, or the surrounding area.
Related FAQs
HVAC systems last an average of 10 years. However, for your equipment, it may differ. Variables that affect life expectancy include the type of system, climate and the regularity of routine maintenance.
Many factors affect the sizing and specifications of your system, including square footage, insulation, window surface and configuration, geographic location of your home, and duct sizing and arrangement. A technician from Comfort Systems of Montana can perform an in-home load analysis to determine which equipment combinations will perfectly suit your home and your family’s needs. Depending on the construction of your home, one (1) ton of air conditioning can cool anywhere from 300 to 800 square feet. You can ensure that the system you purchase is the right size and not smaller or larger than you require, by having your heating and cooling needs evaluated by a licensed professional.
