How To Know When to Replace Your Furnace

Your furnace is an important part of your home. It provides warmth and comfort during the cold winter months and filters the indoor air to keep it clean. However, just like any other appliance, your furnace will eventually need to be replaced. 

It can be a bit challenging to know when to replace your furnace. But learning about the warning signs can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns. There are several things you can look out for to help you decipher when to replace your furnace. 

Crystal Clean Vents has seen it all, from varying temperatures to unusual sounds or smells. We know the importance of a well-functioning furnace, especially when it comes to the efficiency of airflow. 

We've put together a checklist for you to reference so you know what to expect and when to opt for a replacement over a repair. Here's what to look for if you're wondering when to replace your furnace

Check The Age of Your Furnace

The age of your furnace is a great indicator of how well your furnace can perform. If you check the age and model of your furnace, this will ultimately tell you when to replace your furnace. Most furnaces have an average lifespan of around 15-20 years, but this will vary by make and model.

If your furnace is approaching or has passed this age range, it may be time to consider replacing it. Even if your furnace appears to be functioning correctly, there could be other things happening in the background, causing issues you're unaware of. For example, older furnaces often run less effectively, which can cause an increase in energy bills.

Review Your Energy Bills

If you notice your energy bills are starting to climb, this is a good marker for when to replace your furnace. Check your utility bills for a few months to see if there's been a steady increase or random jumps and inconsistencies. Your furnace may be the culprit of these energy hikes.

Older furnaces will ultimately become less efficient over time, which may create increased energy consumption and higher bills. Replacing your furnace with a new, energy-efficient model can help you save money on energy bills. You'll also want to assess the vents and ducts in the HVAC of your home for blockages or issues, which can contribute to hot or cold pockets of air.

Inconsistent Heat 

If you notice that some rooms in your home are warmer than others, this is another sign of when to replace your furnace. You might also find your home's overall temperature inconsistent, meaning your furnace has to struggle to keep up. 

Uneven heating can be a sign of blocks or poor airflow, but it can also be due to a malfunctioning furnace that's no longer performing at optimum levels.

If your furnace can't seem to keep your home consistently warm, this could be another indicator of when to replace your furnace. And if your furnace is working unreasonably hard to heat your home, you may notice strange sounds or noises. It's important to have these checked right away.

Odd Noises and Sounds 

You should never ignore unusual noises coming from your furnace. These can signify a major problem, such as a cracked heat exchanger or a malfunctioning blower. If you hear strange noises, it's essential to have your furnace inspected by a professional HVAC technician. 

Some technicians can repair these issues, buying you a bit more time with your existing furnace. But if the issue is significant, they will let you know and offer up suggestions on when to replace your furnace. It could also end up being more cost-effective in the long run.

Along with sounds, you might notice smells or see excess dust in your home. Declining air quality is another sign that you need to replace your furnace.

Poor Air Quality

Your furnace heats the air in your home, but it also works hard to filter out dust, dirt and pollen. You'll know when to replace your furnace if you notice an increase in airborne particles or see dusty surfaces more frequently. You might also notice some wheezing or sneezing, which is a good indicator of when to replace your furnace.

If your furnace can't filter the indoor air correctly, this can cause several issues for those in your home. Poor indoor air quality can lead to health problems, especially for people with allergies or respiratory issues. If you notice your indoor air quality seems stale, it's likely time to replace your furnace.

Needs Constant Repairs

If you find yourself calling the furnace repair technicians more often than usual, this is a clear marker of when to replace your furnace. The cost of frequent repairs adds up quickly. Before long, the multitude of repairs is no longer worth the cost. 

Constant repairs are a clear marker of when to replace your furnace. Even if your furnace seems tried and true, you'll likely save money by upgrading to a newer model in the long run. Not only will you have fewer repairs, but you'll likely see lower energy bills as well. These overall savings can make a big difference.

Do You Know When To Replace Your Furnace?

Ultimately, you'll know when to replace your furnace, especially if you notice any of the signs listed above. However, don't attempt to diagnose any issues on your own. It's essential to have your furnace inspected by a professional HVAC technician. 

Technicians can determine if a replacement is necessary or see if there are other issues at hand. For example, you may just need a replacement part. Or perhaps you need to deep to clean the vents and ducts of your HVAC to improve airflow. 

We here at Crystal Clean Vents are happy to examine your ventilation system to ensure there are no blockages or issues impeding airflow in your home. We can also check to ensure your air has proper filtration to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

If you'd like to learn more about our services, contact us today! We're here to ensure you feel comfortable and warm in your home.