When your home’s heating system isn’t in good working order, it can leave you cold. And, perhaps worse, it can lead to significant costs in repairs and energy bills. This is why it’s important to know the 5 warning signs that indicate it is time to replace your old heating system.
1. Age & Efficiency
An efficient and sound heating system is key to providing comfortable, healthy living conditions for you and your family. It’s also crucial to maintain air quality in your home. The last thing you want is to have poor air quality in your home, especially if you have allergies or asthma. A poorly functioning heater can worsen these problems by producing dust and debris in the air, which makes it difficult to breathe. Keeping an eye on the air quality in your home is a great way to tell when it’s time to replace your heating system. If you’ve noticed that your family’s allergies or colds have been triggered by poor air quality, it’s likely that your heating system is at the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.
2. Frequent Repairs
If you’ve been needing to get your heater repaired on a regular basis, it may be time for a replacement. While you might think that getting a new heating system is a huge investment, it’s actually a better investment in the long run. Frequent repairs are one of the most common reasons homeowners choose to replace their old furnaces. Having to pay for frequent repairs will certainly add up over time, which is why it’s generally best to replace the system before it breaks down completely.
3. Strange Noises
If your furnace or other heating systems are making unfamiliar noises, it’s a sign that they’re not functioning properly. This can include humming, popping, or screeching. In the case of humming, it’s a good idea to contact an HVAC contractor in your area who can perform a professional diagnostic test to see what’s wrong with the system.
4. Consistent Temperature Changes
If you notice that some rooms in your home are hotter than others, this is a sign that your heater hasn’t been working as efficiently as it should. This could be due to issues with the ductwork or a malfunctioning thermostat. This can lead to a buildup of dirt and soot in the air ducts, which can make it difficult to heat your home. A good technician can inspect your air ducts to determine whether you need a new furnace or not.
5. Increased Utility Bills
As your furnace gets older, it loses its efficiency and requires more fuel to provide the same amount of heat. This can cause your energy bills to increase, even if you’re using it consistently. A new, more efficient heater can help save money on utility bills in the long run and help you live a healthier lifestyle.