Key Takeaways:
After your furnace has spent its better days heating your home, you may be wondering if it’s time to replace it. These 8 signs we’re discussing below can tell you whether or not it’s time for a new furnace:
- It’s age
- Unusual energy bills
- Peculiar noises
- Uneven heating
- Increased dirt, dust, soot, and debris
- Frequent repairs
- Home humidity problems
- Visible signs of damage
- Advice from a technician
- We’ll also advise you on when you should just continue servicing and repairing your furnace.
A furnace lasts on average 15-20 years. This is a long time for most homeowners and it can be easy to forget that the furnace is aging, leading to a costly and inconvenient breakdown. You may have heard tales of furnaces lasting 30 years or more, but it’s important to remember that those cases are rare and you should be preparing for a replacement if your furnace is getting up there in age.
Here are 8 signs that it’s time to start thinking about replacing your furnace:
1. The Age Factor
As mentioned before, if your furnace is at least 12 years old, it’s likely time to think about replacing it. Save up some money in preparation for this expense if your furnace is reaching the end of its life. The earlier you start saving, the better.
2. Unusually High Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed your energy bills inching up without any explanation as to why, it could be a sign that something is wrong with your furnace. Over time, furnaces become less efficient and begin to use more energy than they should. If this happens then replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model could help you save money in the long run.
3. Peculiar Noises or Smells
If your furnace is making any strange noises or producing an odd smell, don’t ignore it! These can be signs of something wrong with your furnace and if left unchecked, can lead to even bigger problems. It’s usually best to call a professional for an inspection if you notice any of these issues, as they can diagnose the problem and tell you whether or not it’s time for a new furnace.
4. Uneven Heating
A furnace unit installed right should be able to evenly distribute heat throughout your home. If you notice certain rooms feeling colder than others, then this could indicate that it’s time for a new furnace. Usually, it’s the result of an inefficient unit that isn’t able to properly heat your home. Uneven heating can also be caused by clogged air ducts, so you may want to have those checked out as well.
5. Increased Dirt, Dust, Soot, and Debris
The increased presence of dirt, dust, soot, and debris can be an indication that your furnace needs to be replaced. This is because older furnaces tend to not filter the air as well as newer models. While you can improve the situation by replacing the filter, eventually the furnace will need to be replaced to get better indoor air quality.
6. Frequent Repairs
If you’re constantly needing to have repairs done on your furnace, it could be a sign that it’s time to replace your unit. Frequent repair bills can add up quickly and you may find that replacing the furnace is a more cost-effective option in the long run. The same goes for parts replacements, if you’re having to routinely replace certain components of your furnace, it’s time to start considering a replacement.
7. Home Humidity Issues
High humidity levels in your home can cause several issues, from mold and mildew growth to excess dust. If you find that the humidity levels in your house are constantly higher than normal, it could be due to an inefficient furnace. Replacing your unit with a newer model can help reduce the amount of moisture in the air and improve the overall comfort of your home.
8. Visible Signs of Damage
If you can visibly see signs of damage on your furnace, such as rust or corrosion, it’s definitely time to start thinking about replacing it. Not only is this a sign that the system is nearing its life expectancy, but faulty components could lead to safety issues as well. You should schedule an inspection with a certified technician to determine the extent of any damage your furnace may have sustained.
9. Advice From a Pro Technician
Replacing your furnace is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s an expensive investment and one that should last for many years. That’s why it’s important to make sure the time is right before you commit to purchasing a new unit. If you’re still not sure whether it’s time to replace or repair your current furnace, contact a certified HVAC professional. They can provide you with an assessment of your current system as well as guidance on what to do next.
Should You Continue With Maintenance?
No matter the age of your furnace or how many problems it’s had, keeping up with regular maintenance is key when it comes to extending its life span and preventing unexpected breakdowns. If you’ve been neglecting routine maintenance, now may be the time to start getting back on track. A professional HVAC technician can help you set up a preventive maintenance plan that fits your budget and needs.
Work With Carney & Son 72 Degrees For the Best Installation and Repair
If you’re ready to replace your furnace, it’s important that you work with a reliable HVAC contractor like Carney & Son 72 Degrees. We have extensive experience in the installation and repair of residential heating systems, and our technicians are knowledgeable in all aspects of the process. We can help you select an energy-efficient system that meets your budget and performance requirements. Reach out to us today for a free quote and consultation.
