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Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace? A Simple Cost Breakdown

By Zachary Morgan | The Repair Blog | Heating & Furnace Services in Ruston, LA

When your furnace starts acting up — making strange noises, blowing cool air, or not working at all — you’re faced with a big question:

Should you repair it… or replace it?

At Alltec, we help homeowners in Ruston, Monroe, and nearby areas make smart, cost-effective heating decisions every day. In this post, we’ll break down the key factors that determine whether it’s better to repair your furnace or invest in a new one — with simple cost comparisons to guide your choice.

🔍 First, Know the Warning Signs

Before we dive into costs, let’s look at signs your furnace might need serious attention:

  • Furnace is over 15 years old

  • Frequent repairs in the last 2–3 seasons

  • Rising energy bills without increased usage

  • Uneven heating or poor airflow

  • Loud banging, rattling, or squealing noises

  • Short cycling (frequent on/off)

  • Yellow burner flame (should be blue)

If you’re seeing one or more of these symptoms, it's time to weigh your options.

🔧 Option 1: Furnace Repair

💰 Typical Repair Costs

  • Minor repairs (thermostat, igniter, flame sensor): $150–$400

  • Moderate repairs (blower motor, circuit board): $400–$800

  • Major repairs (heat exchanger, control module): $1,000–$2,000+

If your furnace is relatively new (under 10 years), and the repair is minor, repairing is usually the best choice.

But if repairs are frequent or expensive, they can quickly add up.

⚠️ When Repair Makes Sense:

  • Furnace is under 10–12 years old

  • Total repair cost is less than 50% of replacement cost

  • The part needing repair is under warranty

  • You’ve had few to no issues in recent years

🔁 Option 2: Furnace Replacement

🛠️ Average Replacement Cost (Ruston, LA area)

  • Basic efficiency furnace: $3,500–$4,500

  • Mid- to high-efficiency furnace: $4,500–$7,500+

  • Installation & labor included

While replacing your furnace is a bigger upfront investment, it can save you more in the long run — especially if your current unit is inefficient or unreliable.

✅ When Replacement Makes Sense:

  • Furnace is 15+ years old

  • Repairs would cost more than $1,500+

  • Energy bills are unusually high

  • You’re planning to stay in the home long-term

  • You want to improve home value and comfort

  • The system is no longer under warranty

💡 Quick Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replace

SituationRepair CostReplacement CostRecommendationBlower motor failed, 8-year-old unit$500$4,000✅ RepairHeat exchanger cracked, 16 years old$1,800$4,500❌ ReplaceFrequent repairs past 12 years$1,000+ (annually)$5,000❌ ReplaceThermostat issue, newer unit$200N/A✅ RepairEnergy bills rising, 14-year-old unitVaries$5,500⚠️ Consider Replacement

🔥 Additional Benefits of Furnace Replacement

  • Improved energy efficiency (especially with ENERGY STAR® models)

  • Quieter operation

  • Smart thermostat compatibility

  • Improved indoor air quality

  • Peace of mind with warranty coverage (often 10 years or more)

🏡 Serving Ruston and the Surrounding Parishes

Whether you're on the fence about repairing or replacing, Alltec is here to help. We offer honest, transparent evaluations — not sales pressure. Our HVAC technicians will inspect your furnace, explain your options clearly, and help you make the best decision for your home and budget.

📞 Need Furnace Help? Call Alltec Today

  • Free estimates on new furnace installations

  • Fast, reliable repair service

  • Financing options available

  • Serving Ruston, Monroe, West Monroe, Farmerville, Dubach, Bernice, Calhoun, Simsboro and nearby towns

👉 Call us now @ (318) 255-9020

Erica Everding