5 Signs That You Need A New Furnace This New Year
Many of us make New Year’s resolutions to better our lives and improve our quality of life. And sometimes that means letting go of certain things and moving on. As a homeowner, one of the things you might need to let go of to improve your life is your old furnace. While it’s treated you good over the past 15 years or so, it’s probably time to consider a replacement if it’s exhibiting a few tell-tale signs. While these signs are certain indicators that you need a new furnace, the more that apply, the more likely you may need to talk to an HVAC professional to discuss options for repair or replacement in the near future.
Your furnace is over 15 years old
The average life expectancy for a furnace is about 15 years. Sometimes furnaces can last up to 18-20 years, if properly maintained each year. If you’re less than diligent about your annual HVAC inspection, it may be time to consider an upgrade if you’re past the 15 year mark.
Your heating bills have gradually increased over the years (and not because of the economy)
There could be a number of reasons as to why your energy bills are rising, not necessarily that you need a new furnace. If you’ve been getting your furnace maintained each year, you shouldn’t see much of a dramatic increase in your heating bills each year. A gradual increase could mean that your furnace is becoming less and less efficient simply due to its age and dated technology. If the rise is completely unexpected, don’t hesitate to contact an HVAC technician to identify a possible problem that may just need a repair or less costly replacement.
You’ve had to repair your furnace frequently over the past 2 years
Speaking of repairs… If your furnace has required multiple repairs over the past 2 years, it may be time to consider an upgrade. The costs of repairing your old furnace may not seem like much but they do add up. It’s better to invest in an efficient new furnace than sink money into a furnace that’s on its last leg. Another way to tell if it’s time for a new furnace is to evaluate if the costs of repair to your old furnace is about or over 50% the cost of a new one.
You can’t keep warm, despite what your thermostat says
Do you notice that some of the rooms in your home are too hot or too cold while your thermostat is set to a consistent temperature? It may be that your furnace is having problems distributing heat evenly throughout your home. An HVAC technician will be able to tell if the underlying problem is because of your furnace, the thermostat, or faulty ductwork.
Your burner flame is yellow, not blue
If the flame is yellow, it’s a sign that your furnace is either not burning fuel cleanly or efficiently or that carbon monoxide is being produced. Any flame that’s not blue can be dangerous, as it could mean there’s leaking gas and/or carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide leaks aren’t something that should be taken lightly. Since the toxic gas is odorless, tasteless, and colorless, it could lead to potentially deadly exposure. Some signs that your furnace is producing carbon monoxide include:
- Streaks of soot
- No upward draft in your chimney
- Unexplained moisture buildup around walls, windows, and other cold surfaces
- Rusting on pipes
If you notice any signs that your furnace is producing carbon monoxide, quickly get out of your house and call the utility company to turn your gas off.
How many of these warning signs apply to your old furnace? If multiple apply, it may be time to consider purchasing a new furnace for your home. If you have any questions about purchasing a new furnace or about fixing the one that you have, talk with the HVAC experts at A-Abel.
