Signs It's Time To Replace Your Furnace
Have you ever wondered when it's time to buy a new heater? You might think that this is the kind of thing only an HVAC contractor would know, but the truth is that many homeowners have already been through it. In this post, I'll outline some signs that indicate your heater needs to be replaced.
1. Your Heating Bills Are Increasing
If you notice a significant increase in your heating bills, it could be a sign that your furnace needs a replacement. If this happens to you, don't worry—you're not alone! A lot of people have experienced this problem. Some have even been surprised when their heating bills doubled overnight—and it's usually because they didn't know about all the different factors that affect them.
If your heater is not doing its job, it's time to think about replacing it. If the temperature inside your home is colder than you'd like, or if the temperature in one part of your house feels significantly warmer than another, then it may be time for a new heater. You can also check for other signs indicating it's time for a new heater: does the unit make strange noises? Do you hear a rattling sound when you turn on the heat? Is warm air blowing out from any vents?
Sometimes with a quick maintenance inspection, you can avoid replacing your system altogether. The best thing to do is to keep track of your routine inspections to avoid potential damage to your heating system that becomes increasingly difficult to fix.
2. Your Heater Is 15 Years Old or More
If your heater is 15 years old or older, it may be time to consider replacing it. The average lifespan for HVAC systems is 15 years, but if yours has been in operation for longer than that, it's probably best to move on.
A lot can go wrong with an older system: It's more likely to break down and require costly repairs.
If you have an older system and still need heating help during the winter months—or even in other seasons—you'll need to budget extra money for repairs or replacements as needed. And there's no guarantee those fixes will last through another season, either!
You might be thinking that a quick repair is cheaper than replacing your system, and you would be right until you factor in the number of repairs. If you are scheduling a repair every two months to keep that old heater running, then over time, that is going to be a drain on your finances, which could be avoided by purchasing a new heating system.
You'll also want to check your heater's efficiency rating and the cost of replacing it. You may qualify for a tax credit or rebate if you buy an energy-efficient appliance like a new high-efficiency furnace or central air conditioner.
3. Rooms are Heating Unevenly
If some of the rooms in your home are heating up faster or slower than others, this could be a sign that there is something wrong with your heater. If the airflow from one room to another isn't consistent, then it's possible that the air distribution system has become clogged or needs replacing.
Another indicator of an inefficient heating system is inconsistent temperatures throughout your house. If you're feeling hot in certain areas, while other parts of your home remain cold—even though all the thermostats are set to the same temperature—then it's time to consider a new heater installation.
4. Allergy and Asthma Symptoms Increase
When dust and dirt start collecting inside your ducts, they can release harmful particles into the air when the heat is running. These particles can trigger allergies and asthma symptoms in people who are sensitive to them. If you or someone in your family has been experiencing worsening allergy and asthma symptoms, it could be a sign that your heater isn't working as efficiently as it should.
In addition to the health benefits of replacing an old heater, you'll also save money on energy costs because newer systems are more efficient and use less power than older models. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency system will help reduce your energy bills while making sure your home is always comfortable.
5. Furnace Becomes Noisy
If you hear strange and loud noises coming from your furnace, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Many times this can indicate a failing part, such as the blower motor or fan belt. It's possible to fix these issues with routine maintenance and cleaning, but if you find yourself doing frequent repairs to keep your heater running properly, then it might be time to replace it.
A new system will not only help you save money on energy costs, but it will also provide a quieter, more efficient performance. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that your heater won't suddenly break down in the middle of winter, leaving you out in the cold!
Can I Put Off A New Heater Purchase?
We get that saving money is always a priority, but you can spend more money than save when you put off a new heater purchase. The best solution to getting the best money-saving option in this scenario is contacting our HVAC team to get a quick assessment of your situation. Our team can break down when the best time to replace your system and give you a rough estimate of what to expect on your utility bills to help you decide if putting off a new purchase is worth it.
At Freedom Air Heating and Air Conditioning we know a thing or two about HVAC solutions, so give us a call at (803) 573-4032 if you ever need help!