Furnaces typically last 15-20 years before needing replacing. If yours has reached this mark or has passed it already, now may be a good time to start thinking about a replacement option. Repair bills add up quickly, and sometimes investing in a new heater before its current one gives out is more cost effective.
Your Furnace is More Than 15 Years Old
If your furnace is over 15 years old, it is time to consider replacing it. Heaters may last as long as 30 years when properly maintained; however, most heaters tend to reach their prime around 15 years after manufacture. Newer models are generally superior quality and more energy efficient compared to older furnaces – this could save both on energy costs and repairs by switching out for something better made and more energy efficient than what was currently in your home.
If your older-model furnace needs repeated repairs, it might be time to consider upgrading. Over time, heaters become less energy-efficient, leading to higher energy costs and eventually outweighing their repair cost – making purchasing new ones more affordable.
One way to determine whether it’s time for a replacement furnace is when repairs begin costing more than 50% of what a new one would cost. This rule of thumb should serve as a good indication, as keeping an old furnace repaired usually ends up costing more over time than just buying one and it becomes increasingly more likely that repairs occur frequently.
Your Furnace is Making Strange Noises
Hearing strange noises coming from your furnace can be unnerving, yet hearing banging; rapping, scraping or screeching could indicate potential serious issues with its operation. Most such sounds are harmless requiring only minor maintenance fixes to address, however more serious ones could suggest more serious concerns that require attention immediately.
Whistling may not be a common sound, but it’s one that should raise red flags about your heater. It could be due to restricted airflow caused by dirty filters or closed vents reducing airflow or excessively large ductwork or broken fans reducing circulation in your home.
If your furnace emits a banging or booming sound, it could indicate serious problems that could damage its heat exchanger or other costly parts. A professional should inspect it to ascertain whether its cracks or dent are present before making their diagnosis and fixing as quickly as possible to reduce carbon monoxide poisoning risk in your home.
Your Energy Bills Are Higher Than Usual
Though furnaces typically last 20-30 years, this site suggests that there comes a point when upgrading is sensible. An older heater may require repairs that cost more than replacing it would; when repair costs exceed half or more than its cost to upgrade, now may be the time for action.
If you have noticed an increase in your energy costs, it’s wise to have Custom Heating and Air Conditioning of Kingsport service your heater and inspect its ductwork – this may reveal leaks in the ducts as well as areas not properly heated by heat distribution systems. Their information is below, so contact them with any questions or concerns before having them out for a visit.
Custom Heating and Air Conditioning of Kingsport
1009 Cox Trail Pl, Kingsport TN, 37660
423-226-5033
https://www.customhvactn.com/
Your Furnace Isn’t Distributing Heat Evenly
Furnaces do not last forever and should be serviced or replaced when they show signs of wear and tear. Some telltale indicators are an increase in energy bills or changes to house feel or an intermittent issue with uneven heating.
Notice if some rooms in your home feel cold even with the furnace running. This could be caused by a number of issues such as inadequate insulation or leaks in ductwork, so consulting with a qualified heating technician like Custom Heating & Air can help identify what the source may be and offer solutions. For a small fee, they’ll be able to give you a diagnosis without even working on your system (in some cases).
Carefully consider how your heater smells, because when properly operating, it should have a fresh, clean scent. If the heater emits musty odors or is exuding smoke, schedule a service call immediately; this way a technician can determine whether it can be fixed easily or needs replacing altogether. Prior to their arrival, clear an area around the unit for them to work safely while performing their service call.
Your Furnace is Leaking Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide gas is produced as a byproduct of furnace fuel-burning processes and should be safely vented out through its flue vent into the outside air; however, if any component of your furnace breaks down it could leak into your home and potentially contaminate it with carbon monoxide.
Protecting yourself and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning requires regular furnace maintenance, clean air filters and scheduling a carbon monoxide test. Carbon monoxide detectors in your home should also be installed – these sensors detect trace amounts of this toxic gas and emit an audible beeping noise when levels become dangerously high.
Carbon monoxide leaks from furnaces may manifest themselves through soot-like stains around it and a pilot flame that’s yellow instead of blue, and dizziness or illness when you are near your furnace. If this describes your experience, contact a professional immediately for a carbon monoxide test.