When temperatures drop in Edmonton and surrounding Alberta communities, your furnace isn’t just about comfort – it’s essential for safe winter living. If your heating system has been acting up lately, you may be wondering: Should you repair your furnace… or is it time to replace it?
At Academy Mechanical Services Inc., this is one of the most common questions we get every winter. Here’s how to tell which option makes the most sense for your home and your budget.
How Old is Your Furnace?
Most furnaces last 15–20 years with proper maintenance.
If your system is:
- Under 10 years old → Repairs usually make sense.
- 10–15 years old → It depends on the issue and cost.
- 15+ years old → Replacement may be the smarter long-term investment.
Older furnaces are less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, especially during Edmonton cold snaps when systems run constantly.
Are Furnace Repairs Becoming Frequent?
One repair every few years is normal.
Two or three service calls in one winter is a warning sign.
If you’re repeatedly paying to keep an aging furnace running, those costs add up quickly. In many cases, that money is better invested in a new high-efficiency system.
Rule of thumb:
If a repair costs 30–40% of a new furnace, replacement is worth considering.
Are Your Heating Bills Increasing?
If your energy bills keep rising without changes in usage, your furnace may be losing efficiency.
Modern high-efficiency furnaces can reach 96%+ efficiency, meaning more fuel heats your home instead of being lost through exhaust. Upgrading can significantly reduce monthly heating costs during long Alberta winters.
Uneven Heat or Comfort Issues
Do some rooms feel freezing while others are too warm? This could be a sign that your system is no longer sized properly for your home or has worn out internal components. If comfort is becoming a constant issue, replacement may be the better solution.
Furnace Safety Concerns
Older furnaces can develop cracks in the heat exchanger, which can allow carbon monoxide to leak. While uncommon, this is a serious safety risk.
If your furnace has had heat exchanger damage or repeated safety-related issues, replacement is typically the safest choice.
Repair vs. Replace: Professional Advice You Can Trust
At Academy Mechanical Services Inc., we never push replacements if a safe, reliable repair makes more sense.
Our approach is simple:
- We inspect your furnace thoroughly
- We explain the issue clearly
- We present honest repair and replacement options
- You decide what fits your home and budget
No pressure – just practical guidance from experienced Edmonton HVAC professionals.
Need Furnace Repair or Replacement in Edmonton or Spruce Grove?
If it’s time to replace your furnace, we’ll help you choose a high-efficiency system designed for Alberta winters – properly sized, professionally installed, and built to last.
If a repair is the better option, we’ll restore your heat quickly and safely.
Contact Academy Mechanical Services Inc today to schedule furnace repair or request a replacement quote in Edmonton or Spruce Grove.
Stay warm, safe, and efficient all winter long.