Every winter I encounter many homeowners who call us for furnace repair and often ask us if it’s worth repairing the furnace or spending more on a replacement.
In general, if your furnace is less than 10 years old, and the repair is minor, fixing it is usually the most economical choice. This is because the furnace is relatively new, and if it was installed correctly by a licensed technician, it should still be under the manufacturer’s warranty.
If your furnace is more than 10-15 years old, has frequent breakdowns, or has a major issue such as a cracked heat exchanger, a replacement furnace is usually the smarter investment, especially if rebates happen to be available at the time.
Why Replace My Furnace?
Energy Efficiency and Utility Bills
By law, all new furnaces on the market are high-efficiency furnaces with an AFUE rating of 90% or higher. This means that for every $1 spent on heating, 90% of that money is converted into heat. Old furnaces can have AFUE ratings as long as 60% or lower, meaning 40% of your utility bill to heat your home is wasted. A new furnace can save you money on your utility bills.
Homeowners in Vancouver and across Metro Vancouver, including Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and the North Shore, can take advantage of several programs that make furnace and heat pump upgrades more affordable. FortisBC furnace rebates and FortisBC heat pump rebates can provide savings of up to $3,000, while BC Hydro rebates help lower the cost of installing ducted or ductless heat pumps.
Parts Availability
Unfortunately, as a furnace ages, parts availability starts becoming an issue. Parts may no longer be available to purchase or are special order only. This means you may be stuck waiting for parts for several weeks in the dead of winter.
Warranty and Long-Term Reliability
A new furnace typically comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that can cover major components for 10 years or more, providing peace of mind and protection against costly repairs. Beyond the warranty, modern furnaces are built with improved technology and higher efficiency standards, reducing the risk of frequent breakdowns and ensuring consistent performance over the long term.
Comfort and Indoor Air Quality
Believe it or not, furnace and heat pump technologies have come a long way since the 80’s. Furnaces are now more efficient, quieter, and smarter than ever with smart thermostat and Google Home integration. This includes UV lights and IAQ filters which all help improve the overall air quality inside your home, important for those who are sensitive to dust and allergens in the air.
Furnace Repair & Replacement FAQs
How much does furnace repair cost in Vancouver?
A furnace repair costs between $350-$600, depending on the severity of the problem and cost of parts.Older furnaces may cost more to repair due to parts availability.
How much does a furnace replacement cost in Vancouver?
A new furnace costs between $5,000 to $8,000 in 2025. This cost can vary depending on the brand, size of your home, ductwork or any other repairs that may have to be conducted. Often, old duct work may have to be modified or repaired before installation can take place.
When should I replace my furnace instead of repairing it?
When your furnace is over 10 years old and starts to experience reoccurring problems, it may be time to start thinking about a replacement.
How long does a furnace last in Vancouver?
In my 40 years of experience, furnace typically lasts between 10-15 years, depending on its maintenance history. A well-maintained furnace may last for many years without major issues.
What are the signs my furnace is failing?
You furnace may be failing if it continues to experience breakdowns such as blowing cold air or triggering your homes carbon monoxide alarm. If this happens, shut down your furnace and call professional immediately.
Are there rebates available for furnace replacement in Vancouver?
Yes, as of the time of this article, FortisBC is offering a rebate of $1,000 for furnace replacement.
How do I qualify for the FortisBC furnace rebate?
To qualify for rebates, make sure you select a contractor such as Ashton to install your furnace. A FortisBC approved contractor can help guide you through the process and help you apply for any available rebates and make recommendations on your installation to maximize your savings.
Schedule Your Furnace Inspection or Replacement Estimate
If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your furnace, the experts at Ashton Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning can help. With more than 38 years of experience serving homeowners across Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and the North Shore, we’ll inspect your system, explain your options clearly, and help you decide what’s best for your home and budget. Take advantage of FortisBC and BC Hydro rebates and 0% interest financing through the Canada Greener Homes Loan to make upgrading even more affordable.
Call 604-283-2383 today or book online at www.callashton.com to schedule your furnace inspection or replacement estimate with Vancouver’s trusted heating professionals.