Introduction
When the chill sets in across Salt Lake City, your furnace quickly becomes one of the most important appliances in your home. But what happens when it starts acting up? Should you pay for a repair, or is it smarter to invest in a full replacement?
How Long Do Furnaces Last in Salt Lake City?
Most furnaces last between 15 and 20 years with regular maintenance. However, Utah’s cold winters, dry indoor air, and air quality issues can accelerate wear and tear, sometimes shortening that lifespan, meaning Salt Lake City furnace repair services are often needed sooner than expected.
Signs Your Furnace May Just Need Repair
Repairs may be the best option if:
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Your furnace is under 10 years old
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The issue is minor (igniter, thermostat, etc.)
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You haven’t needed frequent service calls
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Your energy bills remain stable
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
Replacement makes more sense if:
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Your furnace is 15+ years old
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Repair costs approach 50% of replacement
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Energy bills are steadily climbing
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Heating is uneven throughout your home
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Safety issues like carbon monoxide are present
Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replacement in Salt Lake City
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Typical repair costs: $150–$1,200
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Average replacement cost: $4,500–$8,000
While repairs are cheaper upfront, replacements often save money in the long run through higher efficiency, lower utility bills, and fewer breakdowns.
Utah Energy Rebates
Utah homeowners benefit from incentives when upgrading:
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Rocky Mountain Power offers rebates for efficient heating equipment
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Dominion Energy provides rebates on high-efficiency furnaces
These programs can reduce upfront costs by several hundred dollars.
Example Scenario
If you have a 17-year-old furnace with a $1,000 repair estimate, replacement may be the smarter choice. A new system will come with warranties, improved energy efficiency, and fewer future repairs.
How to Make the Right Decision
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Schedule an inspection with a licensed contractor
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Get side-by-side estimates for repair and replacement
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Consider safety first — carbon monoxide risk isn’t worth gambling on
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Weigh long-term savings from efficiency and rebates
FAQs
Can I wait until spring to replace my furnace?
Possibly, but winter breakdowns are common. Replacing now avoids emergency situations.
What size furnace do I need?
It depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, and design. An HVAC contractor can perform a proper load calculation.
How long does installation take?
Most furnace installations take 1–2 days, depending on the complexity.
Final Thoughts
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Repair is practical for younger furnaces with small, isolated issues.
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Replacement is better for older, inefficient, or unsafe systems — especially when you factor in Utah’s rebates.
At Utah Heating and Cooling, we provide honest recommendations to help you choose between furnace repair and replacement. Serving Salt Lake City, West Jordan, Provo, Sandy, and surrounding communities, our team is here to keep your home safe and warm.
Contact Utah Heating and Cooling today for a professional inspection and estimate.
