As the winter season winds down, it is almost time to switch your HVAC system from heating to cooling. As you flip your furnace off after a long winter, now is the perfect time to assess its performance and evaluate if it is time to get a new furnace. Even if on the surface it seems like your furnace is still performing adequately, it is crucial to contact your HVAC contractor for a replacement before it is too late. With warm weather approaching, this is the time to make the difficult decision, so that your new furnace is ready to go for next winter. If you are unsure exactly if it is time to upgrade your furnace, below are some signs to look for that indicate your furnace has run its course and it is time for a new one.
Your Furnace Is More Than 15 Years Old
The average lifespan of a furnace is a little more than 15 years. However, right around the 15-year mark is when you are likely to begin seeing a drop in energy efficiency and experience breakdowns and maintenance problems. If you have had your furnace for over 15 years, it is time to get a new one.
Your Heating Bill Has Increased
This is one of the most common signs your furnace is on the way out. A variety of problems with your heating system can be occurring, and almost all of them will decrease the unit’s energy efficiency, causing your heating bill to rise. If there is a drastic increase due to a specific issue, an HVAC contractor can fix the problem. But if your bill has steadily increased over the past few years, it means your furnace is on its last legs.
Your Furnace Needs Repairs Frequently
If your furnace has an issue and needs to be repaired by a trusted HVAC contractor, that is normal. However, if your furnace breaks multiple times in a year or two, that is cause for concern. Ask yourself this question, are the costs for repairs over the last two years over 50% of the cost of a new furnace? If so, you are probably better off just upgrading your system.
Hearing Strange Noises
When your furnace is running, do you hear any rattling, popping, clicking, or banging? As older furnaces begin to wear down, they make strange noises. Your blower also may begin to sound much louder than usual and turn on and off frequently. These are all signs of a furnace at the end.
Temperature Never Consistent
Are you finding that you are never comfortable regardless of the temperature you set on your thermostat? Some rooms are too cold, and some are too hot. This means your furnace is no longer properly distributing heat throughout your home.
Burner Flame Is Yellow Instead of Blue
If your furnace is producing a yellow flame instead of blue, that could indicate your system is producing carbon monoxide, or that the fuel is not burning as cleanly and efficiently as it should.
Upgrade Your Furnace Ace Hardware Home Services
How many of these signs sound familiar to you? If any of these apply to your furnace, it is probably time to pull the trigger on a new system. At the end of the day, you are going to end up spending more on repairs and an increased heating bill. Contact Ace Hardware Home Services for a new furnace installation before next winter and be confident you and your family will be comfortable. Call us at 765-966-1300 to schedule your appointment.
