Deciding whether to repair or replace an oil-fired furnace or boiler is not a fun question to answer – but it’s one that you will more than likely have to face at some point in your home-owning life.

Sometimes the choice is easy – especially if you have an older system that is performing poorly. But more often than not we need to take several factors into account if we’re to make the smartest decision for our North Fork or East End home.

New Heating Equipment Decision Factors

Here are some questions to ask when it comes time to decide whether to repair or replace your heating oil furnace or boiler:

1. How old is your system? Today’s heating systems can last 15 years or even longer if they’re properly maintained, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be running at peak efficiency toward the end of that cycle. If you’re having problems with a system that’s well into its second decade, replacing it may be the smarter choice, especially if it’s not keeping you as comfortable as you’d like or if your equipment has been breaking down frequently. If your furnace or boiler is 20 years old and in only average condition, you should probably replace it.
2. How well has your current system been maintained? If you’ve maintained your heating system regularly since day 1, it’s a better bet to last longer with fewer costly problems (the main reason we talk so often about the importance of routine heating maintenance on this blog). Just keep in mind that no amount of maintenance will make your equipment more efficient than it was when you bought it – or more efficient than a new heating system.
3. Have my heating needs changed? If you’ve added space to your house without changing your heating system, the next breakdown you have could be caused by pushing your furnace or boiler beyond its limits – a problem that is likely to recur if you keep an undersized system in place.
4. Is my current system safe? A 10 to 15-year-old system carries a much higher risk of developing a safety problem than one that is newly installed. For example, older heat exchangers can crack or rust, causing carbon monoxide leaks in your home.

Summing Up

When you weight the costs and benefits of repairing or replacing older equipment, there are often significant advantages to replacement. Is repair ever a viable option?

Yes, if:

• Your system is less than 10 years old and in good condition
• Your heating costs and comfort levels have been acceptable
• The performance of your system is reliable
• The equipment is still under warranty
• You’re planning to move

The bottom line: Oil-fired heating systems are long-term investments whose components work together to ensure your comfort – and like any investment, you need to do your research to find the best way to spend your money.

When it comes time to make your choice, make it a smart one – call the pros at Burt’s Reliable.

Not sure if you should repair or replace your furnace or boiler? We can help! Contact us today and we’ll walk through your options for boiler and furnace installation in eastern LI.