There are a few simple things to take into consideration when thinking about a new furnace.
How Old Is Your Furnace?
According to the Department of Energy, the average lifespan of a furnace is 15 to 20 years. As your furnace approaches this age range you should start to watch for warning signs your furnace may fail: loud noises on start-up, screeching noises, or significant decreases in airflow.
It may be a good idea to start researching a new furnace before you find yourself in an emergency. If you need help researching you can start here. A good rule of thumb to determine your furnace age is if your unit has a pilot light it’s more likely than not 20 years or older.
If you want to do a little more digging, locate your furnace or boiler serial number and go here (this database decodes all serial numbers).
Gas and Electric Bills
If your energy bills have been steadily climbing over the past couple of years, it could be related to rising costs in the world, but it may also be associated with an aging furnace. As your furnace wears it loses efficiency resulting in your unit running longer to keep up with your set temperature. This ultimately increases your energy consumption.
Frequency of Furnace Repairs
Like a car, furnaces require regular maintenance, but just like cars as furnaces age they break down more and require more repairs. Look through your repair history, if your furnace has had 2 or more repairs in the past 3 years you may want to consider a new furnace.
If the idea of paying for a furnace seems daunting don’t worry we have plenty of financing options here.
Are You Comfortable?
Is the heat keeping up with the setting on the thermostat? If you find yourself constantly cold from your furnace’s inability to keep up with your desired setting this is a solid indication your furnace is on its way out.
What Kind of Noises Does It Make?
All furnaces make some noises, but older units start to make more noticeable noises. Listen for grinding, popping, rattling, or banging noises. It’s best to take note when you hear the noises (e.g. start-up, mid-cycle, or end of cycle). Then share your notes with your technician when they’re there for your annual maintenance. Generally the louder the noise and frequency is a good indication of how large the problem is.
Request service online, or call us at (331) 231-2773 if you think it might be time to replace your furnace. You can also contact us today if you have any questions about the life of your furnace, furnace repair or replacement, or new furnace installation.
