
Should You Repair or Replace? Your Burning Questions About Heating Systems Answered.
A Quick Guide to Making the Right Choice for Your Heating System
“Yikes, why did you turn the furnace off? It’s freezing!”
“Uh, I didn’t turn it off.”
“Oh no…”
A conversation like this strikes fear into the heart of even the hardiest Minnesotan.
When your furnace or boiler starts acting up in the middle of a Minnesota winter, you need answers fast.
Is this a quick fix, or is it time for an upgrade? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with straightforward advice to help you make the best decision for your home and budget.
Understanding Your Heating System's Lifespan
Just like your car, heating systems have a typical lifespan. Furnaces generally last about 12-15 years, while boilers can keep going for closer to 20 years with proper maintenance. But these are just averages—your system’s actual lifespan depends on factors like maintenance history and usage patterns.
Common Heating Issues You Might Face
Whether you have a furnace or boiler, certain problems signal it’s time for professional attention. Here are some helpful examples.
For Furnaces:
- No heat
- Weak airflow
- Making unusual banging, whistling, or rattling sounds
- Emitting strange odors
- Creating uneven heating throughout your home
- Short cycling (turning on and off frequently)
For Boilers:
- No heat
- No hot water production
- Kettling sounds (like a kettle boiling)
- Visible water leaks or drips
- Inconsistent heating across radiators
- Unusual pressure readings
You don’t need to check off all these symptoms for there to be a real problem. Any of them could spell trouble.
The Big Question: Should You Repair or Replace Your Heating System?
We get it—this is a significant decision. Here are a few things you should consider.
System Age
If your furnace is approaching 15 years old or your boiler is over 20, replacement might be the more cost-effective choice. However, age alone isn’t always the deciding factor.
Repair History
If you’re facing frequent repairs, it might be time to break up with your old system. Now through March 31, we’re offering a credit of up to $1,500 for past repairs (even from other companies!) when you upgrade to a new furnace or boiler. Click here for details.
Energy Efficiency
Older systems often operate at 60-70% efficiency, while new high-efficiency models can reach 95% or higher. This difference really shows up in your monthly energy bills.
Future Plans
Planning to stay in your home long-term? A new system with our Lifetime Warranty could be your best investment. Moving soon? A high-quality repair might make more sense.
What Does it Cost to Invest in a New Heating System?
While a new heating system is certainly an investment, current incentives can make it more affordable than you might think. For example:
- Federal tax credits for energy-efficient systems
- Utility rebates, including furnace rebates and boiler rebates
- Flexible financing options
- Our current offer: Up to $1,500 credit for repairs completed in the past two years when you purchase a new system
The exact cost depends on your home’s size and the system you choose, but don’t stress; we provide free custom quotes and second opinions to help you make an informed decision.
Why Thousands of Twin Cities Homeowners Trust Bonfe
We’re not just another heating company. Here’s what makes us different:
- Our industry-leading Lifetime Warranty means you only pay the $99 service charge for covered repairs
- 100% Family-owned and locally operated in South St. Paul since 1993
- A+ BBB rating and 4.8 stars from over 9,500 Google reviews
- Available 24/7/365 for emergency service
- Expert guidance on tax credits and rebates
Limited-Time Offer: Get a Credit of Up To $1,500 When You Purchase a New Furnace or Boiler
For a limited time, when you purchase a new heating system with us, we’re offering a credit of up to $1,500 for past repairs that were completed in the last two years. Even if you used a different company for the repairs! Just show us the receipt. How’s that for a hot offer?

It’s cold out there. Let's make sure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.
Whether you need emergency furnace or boiler repair in the Twin Cities area or you’re considering installing a new furnace or boiler, we’re here to help.
Our experienced technicians can assess your system and provide honest recommendations based on your specific situation.
