Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace? Key Signs for Business Owners6 min read

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Think You Need to Repair or Replace Your Furnace?

Canadian business owners are well aware of how important it is to have a properly functioning furnace during the winter months. These systems are essential for keeping customers, guests, and employees comfortable. As a result, understanding the signs it may be time to repair or replace your furnace can be a major benefit for your business.

If your furnace is older, you are concerned about its condition, or you are simply looking to ensure your HVAC equipment is operating at peak performance, we are here to help.

Keep reading to learn about key signs it may be time to repair or replace the furnace in your facility.

Browse This Content:

1. A Brief Background on Furnaces in Commercial Applications
2. 3 Signs it Might Be Time to Replace Your Furnace
3. 3 Signs it Might Be Time to Repair Your Furnace
4. Need to Repair or Replace Your Furnace? Try the Reliance™ Rental Program
5. Interested in HVAC Rental But Not New Equipment? Try Our Buyback Program

A Brief Background on Furnaces in Commercial Applications

The furnace is the component of your HVAC system that generates heat. In gas-powered central HVAC systems that use ductwork, here is how a furnace works:

1. The thermostat signals the furnace to turn on
2. The burners ignite and deliver heat to a heat exchanger
3. Blowers move air over the heat exchanger into ducts that distribute heat around a space.

Learn More About HVAC Systems From Reliance

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3 Signs it Might Be Time to Replace Your Furnace

While the prospect of repairing or replacing your HVAC equipment can seem daunting, it is important to keep your furnace in good working order. So regardless of whether you notice any of the signs below, it is best not to wait for something to go wrong: Preventative maintenance can help identify issues early which could help avoid costly breakdowns and unplanned downtime. Regular inspections may also help ensure your system is running right when you need it most!

1. The Age of Your Furnace

The longevity of a furnace depends on a number of factors. such as:

• The usage demands
• The initial installation
• The amount/quality of maintenance over time

Aside from general wear and tear over time, older furnaces may be less efficient which could be costing your business. So while putting off a furnace or HVAC replacement might seem like it is saving you money, it may not be the best decision.

Tip: If your furnace is more than 15 years old but you are not noticing any obvious problems, it is always a good idea to contact a trusted, certified HVAC technician to get a professional opinion and to ensure it’s operating at peak performance.

2. Frequent Repairs

While routine maintenance is a great way to help keep your furnace running properly, there is a big difference between preventative maintenance and the constant need for regular repairs. Sometimes, when a furnace is nearing the end of its life, it breaks down and needs repairs more regularly. If you have recently had one part of your furnace replaced only to discover that something else needs to be repaired, it could mean that it is time to think about a new unit.

3. Rising Utility Costs & Declining Performance

If you are noticing spikes in your utility bills, you might want to see if there is a more efficient product available to help keep your bills in check.

Thanks to advances in technology, newer furnace models can run efficiently than older units. By upgrading to a newer furnace, you may be able to take advantage of increased efficiency and lower your energy bills. For more information, be sure to consult a trusted HVAC service provider on the energy ratings associated with different models. For example:

AFUE: This is a seasonal measure of how well a furnace is able to convert the amount of energy used to heat. The higher the number, the more efficient your furnace will be.

3 Signs It Might Be Time To Repair Your Furnace

If you notice any of the signs below, it is time to consider a system tune-up from an expert you can trust. While these signs do not definitively indicate it is time to replace your furnace, they could signal it is time for repair or preventative maintenance.

Excessive Noise

If you hear unusual banging, clanging, buzzing, or high-pitched sounds, this could point to loose parts, broken parts, debris, and other issues. Shut the unit down and call a technician right away.

Rust

Rust is also a concern to watch for. Furnaces may develop rust over time which could be a sign that there is an issue, such as a condensate leak.

Clogged and Dirty Filters

Filters play an essential step in keeping your HVAC system running cleanly and efficiently. Commercial business owners should regularly have their filters inspected and replaced to ensure that they are not clogged with dust, dirt, and debris. If left unattended, a clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause problems in the unit.

Need to Repair or Replace Your Furnace? It is Easier With the Reliance™ Rental Program

Regardless of the state of your furnace or broader HVAC system, it’s understandable to feel wary of the investment needed to replace your equipment. Consider that, when you purchase new equipment outright, you will be on the hook for upfront costs for equipment and installation, plus the added (and often unexpected) costs associated with ongoing maintenance and repairs.

For those looking for an alternative to the risks of ownership, consider renting your HVAC equipment through the Rental Program available with Reliance Commercial Solutions™. You will benefit from one predictable monthly bill that covers the costs of the maintenance, service, and repairs*. Reliance customers can also take advantage of:

• Guaranteed 4-Hour Service Call Response Time*: In the event of a breakdown, our priority is to get you back in business as soon as possible.
• No Upfront Capital Outlays: Most replacements won’t cost you a cent upfront, allowing you to hold onto more capital.
• One Number to Call: We pride ourselves on offering the easiest, most convenient and accessible service in the industry.
• No Extra Repair Costs: Ongoing service and repair costs (including parts and labour) are included in your monthly payment.
• Qualified Team of Experts: We work with hundreds of licensed technicians to provide the service you need when you need it.

You can also rest easy knowing your equipment is backed by an industry leader that has delivered excellent service and results for over 60 years!

Interested in HVAC Rental But Not New Equipment? Try Our Buyback Program

Exclusive to Reliance Commercial Solutions, the Buyback Program is a way for business owners who currently own their HVAC system to have Reliance purchase and maintain their equipment. They can then reinvest this capital wherever they see fit. After the buyback is complete, you rent your equipment from us and take advantage of the Reliance Rental Program. This program presents an opportunity for you to enter into a far more convenient and stress-free arrangement when it comes to your mechanical equipment.

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