Should I Repair or Replace My Furnace?
What this costs
| Option | Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace | Furnace Replacement | $2,950 | $8,350 |
ENERGY STAR's checklist
The EPA's ENERGY STAR program says that if two or more items in the Replace column apply to you, it's probably time to consider replacing the system.
- Repair if: under 15 years old. Replace if: over 15 years old.
- Repair if: good service record. Replace if: repeat problems.
- Repair if: major repairs were made recently and only a minor one is needed. Replace if: extensive or costly repairs are needed.
- Repair if: on/off cycling isn't excessive. Replace if: it seems excessive.
- Repair if: it performs up to expectations. Replace if: it doesn't.
- Repair if: you're moving soon. Replace if: you're staying long term.
Signs that aren't obvious
NAHB's 2007 study puts furnaces at 15 to 20 years on average, so a 15-year-old unit may have some life left. ENERGY STAR says rising bills, rooms that are too hot or too cold, excessive dust, humidity problems and a noisy system can all point to a system that isn't doing its job, even if it still runs.
Run the numbers
Our replacement estimate is on this page. Get a repair quote and compare the two.
Furnace Won't Turn On? Safe Checks Before You Call
Common questions
Should I repair a furnace that is 20 years old?
What if I smell gas near the furnace?
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Last verified 2026-11-03
- ENERGY STAR / EPA: Repair or Replace? You Decide (undated checklist for contractors) — Repair-or-replace checklist: 15 years is the dividing age; two or more items in the replace column means consider replacement.
- ENERGY STAR: When Is It Time to Replace? — Warning signs and age thresholds for replacement.
- NAHB / Bank of America Home Equity: Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (2007) — Furnaces last 15-20 years on average.
- U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Saver Guide (2022) — Consider replacing a furnace more than 15 years old; frequent repairs and rising bills.
- Wisconsin Public Service Commission: Natural Gas Consumer Safety — If you smell natural gas: leave immediately, call the gas utility from a safe distance outdoors, avoid phones, lights and flames near the leak.
General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.