Replace a Furnace or Use Furnace Retrofits: Which is Better?

Are you thinking about replacing your furnace? You might want to consider a furnace retrofit. This could be a cost-effective solution for you, but then again, maybe a full replacement is a better option. Here's some information that may help you with your decision.

Furnace Retrofits, Generally Speaking

If you know that you'll have to replace your furnace in a few years, it may make more sense to save your money, and put it toward a new unit. Retrofits are designed to increase your efficiency and help you save money, but they need to be in place long enough for you to recoup your expenses. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average life span for a furnace is 15 to 20 years, if you ensure that your system is serviced regularly. If you expect that you'll get several more years of service out of it, then furnace retrofits may be a good option.

Retrofits for Gas and Oil Furnaces and Boilers

Here are some of the furnace retrofits or additions that you could make to existing gas and oil systems:

• Hot-water boilers
• Modulating aquastats
• Time-delay relays
• Vent dampers
• Derating burners

Retrofits for Gas Furnaces Only

If your gas furnace has a continuous pilot light, you could replace it with a intermittent ignition device, which can boost efficiency. These typically pay for themselves, via savings on your heating costs, within 10 years.

Retrofits for Oil Furnaces Only

Barometric flue dampers are items for oil burning systems only. This is an inexpensive item that when properly installed and used can help save you money on your family's fuel cost while being an inexpensive fix.

Source: U.S.Department of Energy