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Should You Replace Your Furnace? 11 Key Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask
What you’ll learn in this article
Not sure if this is the year to replace your furnace? You’re not alone. Deciding whether to keep repairing your current unit or invest in a new one can be tricky. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most important questions to ask yourself before making that decision.
Just like when you debate repairing or replacing your car, a furnace requires the same kind of cost–benefit analysis. Do you keep putting money into an older system, or is it smarter to upgrade to a more efficient, reliable model?
Before you decide, here are 11 key questions to help you figure out if now is the right time to replace your furnace.
1. How old is your furnace?
Most furnaces last between 15 and 20 years, depending on how well they’ve been installed and maintained. If yours is nearing this range, you may already notice:
- Uneven heating throughout your home
- More frequent temperature fluctuations
- A drop in overall efficiency
Older models—especially those with low AFUE ratings—can waste 30% or more of the fuel you pay for. A high-efficiency furnace can save you money month after month.
2. Are your heating bills increasing?
Rising energy costs can stem from many factors: poor insulation, drafty windows, or even a particularly harsh winter. But if your furnace is aging, it may be using more energy to deliver the same amount of heat.
Even with good maintenance, older systems naturally lose efficiency over time. If you’ve noticed steady increases in your bills, it might be a sign that it’s time for an upgrade.
3. Is your home less comfortable than before?
Cold spots, inconsistent temperatures, or a furnace that struggles to keep up are all red flags. If your system can no longer maintain consistent comfort, a replacement may be more cost-effective than continuing repairs.
4. Are repairs becoming frequent or expensive?
One or two repairs over the years are normal. But if you’re facing breakdowns season after season—or a major repair that costs more than half the price of a new furnace—replacement is usually the smarter move.
5. Has your furnace been red-tagged?
A red tag means your furnace has a critical safety issue.
- Type A: Immediate danger (such as a carbon monoxide leak). Gas service is shut off immediately until repairs or replacement are completed.
- Type B: Serious issue, but not an emergency. You’ll have a limited time to fix or replace the furnace before gas service is cut.
6. Is your furnace making unusual noises?
Furnaces make some noise, but certain sounds signal deeper problems:
- Banging: Ignition delay
- Scraping: Loose blower wheel or ball bearings
- Whistling: Blocked airflow
- Clicking: Ignition or gas issue
- Rumbling or humming: Loose or failing parts
If these noises keep happening, a technician can confirm whether repairs are worth it—or if a replacement is the safer option.
7. Does your furnace need constant attention?
Recurring issues such as clogged filters, faulty thermostats, ignition failures, or blower motor breakdowns are common in aging furnaces. If repairs are adding up and your warranty has expired, it’s often better to invest in a new unit instead of pouring money into the old one.
8. Do you see rust or cracks?
Moisture issues, poor ventilation, or condensation problems can lead to rust and corrosion inside your furnace. Left unchecked, this can cause cracks in critical components like the heat exchanger—posing serious safety risks such as carbon monoxide leaks or fire hazards.
If rust or cracks are widespread, replacement is usually the safest and most cost-effective solution.
9. Is it the wrong time of year to wait?
If your furnace is struggling at the start of winter, replacing it now could prevent a mid-season breakdown. Emergency replacements in freezing weather are stressful, costly, and harder to schedule since HVAC companies are busiest during extreme cold spells.
10. Is your furnace safe?
Safety should always come first. Warning signs of an unsafe furnace include:
- Yellow instead of blue flames
- Strong smells or odd noises
- Rust or cracks
- Frequent cycling
- Uneven heating
An HVAC professional can tell you if your system is still safe—or if it’s time for a replacement.
11. Do the warning signs add up?
One issue alone may not justify replacement. But if you’re facing multiple problems at once—higher bills, frequent repairs, safety concerns, and declining comfort—it’s a strong signal that a new furnace is the better investment.
What to Expect When Replacing Your Furnace
The Replacement Process
A licensed HVAC technician will:
- Help you choose the right size and efficiency level
- Remove your old furnace safely
- Install and connect your new system
- Test it thoroughly for performance and safety
- Dispose of the old unit
Cost of Furnace Replacement
In Canada, a new furnace typically costs $4,000 – $6,500 (including installation). Prices vary depending on:
- Brand and model
- Furnace type and efficiency rating
- Home size and location
- Installation complexity
- Add-ons like a smart thermostat
When Is the Best Time to Replace?
The best time to replace your furnace is spring or early fall, when HVAC contractors are less busy. Avoid waiting until winter, when demand (and prices) are highest.
Rebates and Financing Options
Rebates from government programs, energy providers, and manufacturers can help offset costs—but many are now shifting toward heat pumps. Always apply before purchase to qualify.
If upfront costs are a concern, ask local HVAC companies about financing options to spread payments over time.
Next Steps
FurnacePrices.com provides:
- Independent reviews of top Canadian furnace brands
- Cost breakdowns for different models
- Access to trusted local contractors who can give you free, no-obligation quotes
👉 [Get your personalized furnace replacement estimate today!]
FAQs
Should I repair or replace my furnace?
It depends on the age of your unit, efficiency, repair costs, and whether it’s still under warranty. Use our [furnace decision quiz] to find out.
How often should a furnace be replaced?
Most furnaces last 15–20 years. After that, efficiency drops and repair needs increase.
Can I replace my furnace myself?
No. Furnace installation involves gas lines, electrical systems, and venting—serious safety risks if done incorrectly. Always hire a licensed HVAC professional.
How often should my furnace be inspected?
At least once per year by a licensed technician. Annual inspections maintain efficiency, prevent major issues, and keep your warranty valid.
