🔑 Key Takeaway
If your furnace is over 15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or can’t keep up with Sacramento’s chilly nights, it may be time to stop patching and start planning for a full replacement. But not every issue means you need a new unit. This guide breaks down when a repair makes sense—and when it’s smarter to move on.
“Just Get Me Through One More Winter…”
We hear that from Sacramento homeowners every fall.
And honestly? Sometimes that’s all you need. A quick part replacement, a cleaned-up blower motor, and you’re good to go.
But sometimes, that same old unit is costing you more in the long run—in repairs, higher energy bills, and stress.
So let’s walk through it.
Signs You Should Repair Your Furnace
There are situations where a furnace repair is the obvious choice—especially if your system is relatively young and the issue is small.
Repairs usually make sense when:
- The furnace is under 12–15 years old
- It’s the first time you’ve had issues
- The cost of repair is less than 1/3 the cost of a new unit
- Your system is still under warranty
- You’ve been getting consistent heat and reasonable energy bills
Common fixable issues include:
- Faulty ignitor
- Clogged filter or drain
- Dirty flame sensor
- Thermostat or control board glitches
Noticing strange smells while troubleshooting? Read: Why Your Furnace Smells When You First Turn It On
When It's Time to Replace That Old Furnace
If this list feels too familiar, it might be time to let it go:
- Your furnace is 15–20 years old
- You’ve had two or more repairs in the last two years
- Your heating bill keeps climbing
- It makes loud noises or struggles to heat rooms evenly
- You smell gas, oil, or smoke too often for comfort
- You’re tired of wondering if it’ll survive another season
In Sacramento homes—especially older ones with original HVAC systems—it’s common to outgrow a furnace without realizing it. You keep repairing because it’s “cheaper,” but those little fixes start to add up fast.
What’s the Cost Difference?
Let’s break it down simply:
- Basic repair: $150–$600
- Major repair (heat exchanger, motor): $800–$1,500
- New furnace install: $4,000–$7,000 (depending on size, brand, ductwork)
If your repair cost is creeping near or above the $1,500 mark—and your furnace is more than 15 years old—it’s almost always smarter to replace.
Still Not Sure? Ask These 3 Questions
- How often am I calling for repairs?
- Am I nervous every time I turn on the heat?
- Could I improve my home’s energy efficiency with a newer system?
If you’re answering “yes” more than “no,” it’s worth getting a quote on a new system.
Live in an older house? You might want to explore better heating options for Sacramento’s older homes—some don’t even require ductwork.
Final Word
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a right answer for your situation. Sometimes it’s a quick repair. Other times, it’s time to move on and invest in a system that’s safer, quieter, and more efficient.
Need an honest opinion?
Arctic HVAC & Construction offers straight answers, fair quotes, and expert guidance—whether you’re repairing, replacing, or just trying to get through one more season.