Having an HVAC system is a great way to ensure that your home can always keep up with the temperature outside. It consists of both an AC unit you use during heat waves and a furnace that keeps your home warm and works as a heater. You expect that furnace to work when the temperature drops to prevent your pipes from breaking and to keep your family comfy. Heaters can only last for so long before they show signs of failure though. Learn what signs you need to look for to know when to replace your old heater.
Frequent Cycling
Anyone who had a furnace before knows that it goes through cycles. Your furnace usually makes a soft noise as it kicks on and also makes other noises as the air moves through your ducts and vents. Once it reaches the temperature you want, it should shut down. With frequent cycling, the furnace will keep kicking on and off during the day and night. This may be a sign of a faulty or dying fan motor or that you have a dirty filter. Frequent cycles can also be a sign that you need to replace your heater.
Old Age
The age of your heater is one of the big factors in how it runs and operates. You can usually get 10 to 15 years out of a furnace, but some homeowners have furnaces that last for up to 10 years or longer. Keep in mind that older heaters are not as efficient as modern heaters, which may result in higher heating bills. Many residential HVAC service technicians also have a hard time finding parts for older furnaces, especially if the brand went out of business or stopped making those parts.
Hot and Cold Spots
Depending on the age and size of your home, cold spots are common in the winter. You’ll usually notice those spots around drafty windows and your front door. These spots are also a sign of uneven heating. It means that your heater cannot efficiently heat your home and keep the temperature high in every space. You can always wear layers or use space heaters to increase the temperature and get some more use out of your furnace. The only way to eliminate hot and cold spots and keep your home toasty though is with a new furnace.
High Heating Bills
Whether you have a gas or electric furnace, you spend money to run it. It uses a small amount of that power every time it kicks on and as it produces heat. The average price of natural gas heating in the United States is around $670 per year. Keeping an eye on your heating bills is a good way to know when the cost of using your heater rises. While small problems like a dirty filter might cause your bill to increase, it often indicates that you need an expensive repair to fix the problem. Buying a new heater might help you save money.
Cold and Flu Symptoms
Another sign that you need to replace your old heater is when you and/or members of your family exhibit cold and flu symptoms. These symptoms are some of the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. Check the furnace pilot light to see if it appears yellow. This is an easy way to see if it produces carbon monoxide. Other signs of a carbon monoxide leak include dark streaks and sooty deposits around the heater, rusting on nearby metal surfaces, and moisture around your windows. If you suspect you have a carbon monoxide leak, turn off your furnace and call for help. It’s often better to replace the faulty heater than try to fix the leak.
When to Replace an Old Heater
While furnaces are expensive, don’t let the high price keep you from buying a new one. Using an old furnace can cost you a lot of money in the long run. Not only will it increase your heating bills, but it can also develop a carbon monoxide leak that leads to serious health problems. Look at financing options that limit the amount you need to pay today for a new heater. Signs that your heater is on its way out include frequent cycling and multiple hot and cold spots.
