When to Replace My Furnace?
There are few simple things to take into consideration when thinking about a new furnace.
How Old Is Your Furnace?
The average life expectancy of a furnace is 15 to 20 years. The closer your furnace gets to this age range, the more attention you should pay to the warning signs. Start shopping for a replacement before you have an emergency, so that you can make a calm and informed decision. Having a pilot light on your furnace is a good indicator that your furnace is at least 20 years old.
Your Gas and Electric Bills
If your bills seem to be steadily climbing, it could be related to rising costs in the world, but it may also be associated with an old furnace. Furnaces lose efficiency as they age.
Frequency of Furnace Repairs
Like a car, furnaces require regular maintenance. Also like a car, the older they get, the more work they need. Check the frequency of repairs. If you are repairing and replacing parts more than once every one to two years, it might be time to start looking for a new furnace.
Are You Comfortable?
Is the heat in your house being distributed evenly and following the settings on your thermostat? As your furnace ages, it loses the ability to distribute heat evenly.
What Kind of Noises Does It Make?
All furnaces make some noises, but older furnaces start to make more noticeable noises more often. Listen for grinding, popping, rattling, or banging noises. Listen to whether or not the blower is running constantly as well.
Is Your Home Excessively Dry or Dusty?
If the air in your house begins to feel musty or stale, you may experience more extreme allergies or cold symptoms. Do you have a dry throat and dry skin? Are you getting excessive dust collection on your furniture? All of these are indicative of an old furnace lacking the ability to moisturize and clean the air in your home.
Request service online, or call us at 757-424-4836 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.