Quick answer
Repair when the furnace is under 12 years, the fix is under one-third of replacement cost, and heat exchanger is sound — replace when age, efficiency, safety, or repeat repairs exceed that threshold.
- Compare practical options by risk, cost range, and comfort outcome.
- Identify what to verify in an estimate before you sign.
- Choose a path that fits your budget and timeline.
After a repair quote
You're holding a repair invoice wondering if replacement is smarter before winter.
Compare your options
Repair signals
Single component failure, young system, valid warranty.
Replace signals
Cracked heat exchanger, 15+ years, 50%+ repair-to-replace ratio, rising gas bills.
Key terms and context
This guide is written for heating & air decisions in the Puget Sound. It uses the same terminology you'll hear from inspectors, technicians, and permit offices.
Repairing unsafe units
Heat exchanger cracks require replacement — not patch.
How we build this guidance
- Straight answers first, so you know your options without the fluff.
- Written and reviewed by techs who do this work every day.
- Specific to Puget Sound homes, weather, and utilities.
- Updated 2026-06-08 from real heating & air jobs around the region.
Methodology: Industry-standard repair-vs-replace framework; safety overrides cost.
Last updated: 2026-06-08
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Common questions
What's the 50% rule?
If repair exceeds half of a new system, replacement often wins on total cost of ownership.