7 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
As you prepare your home for the cold months, you must make sure that your furnace is in good condition so that you stay warm. The furnace can give different warning signs that indicate something is wrong and that you need an upgrade. Below are seven telltale signs that you need a new furnace before the winter weather kicks in.
1. A Yellowish Pilot Light
In every furnace, there are different parts that you need to consider if you want to use it effectively. One is the pilot light of your heating unit. The pilot light helps you understand the status of your heating system. For instance, if the light is blue, you are in a good place and can rest easy using the furnace. However, if you notice this light turning yellow, it’s time to start weighing your options.
The yellow light on a furnace is a sign of underlying problems. The most common problem is poor ventilation. The furnace produces carbon monoxide. But this gas is not dissipating as it should keep you safe and the furnace functioning effectively. It’s best to turn off the furnace and to consult an expert about purchasing a new system when you notice the yellow color.
2. Deteriorating Indoor Air Quality
In every household, indoor quality is crucial for the health and well-being of its occupants. When the air quality is good, you can live comfortably and even avoid certain illnesses. However, when the air quality in your home is poor, you might end up with health complications.
The furnace in your home is responsible for making sure that you always have the best air quality when it’s running. Look around and check the status of your living space. Is there dust everywhere despite the furnace working? If yes, your indoor air is contaminated.
The best way to check for air quality issues is by investing in an indoor air quality monitor. This gadget can help you evaluate the state of the air in your home. If you notice dust, particles, or micro-organisms like mold in your home, then it’s time to upgrade your home’s furnace.
3. Aging Furnace
How long have you had your current furnace? If your system is more than 15 years old, the age itself is a sign that you need a new one. Even the best furnaces cannot function effectively beyond 15 years, no matter how well you take care of them. Therefore, it’s prudent to keep the age of your heating unit in mind. When you know it’s getting on with age, make plans to replace it.
An old furnace usually gets less efficient with time. That means that your furnace will run longer than usual to heat your living space, resulting in increased energy bills. It is more cost effective in the long term to replace the furnace once you begin noticing reduced efficiency.
Most furnaces come with a manual that advises you about their lifespans. In addition, you can also speak with an expert to get a better perspective about the likely life of your furnace. This information will help you make plans to get a furnace replacement before the end of its lifespan. You don’t want your furnace breaking down in the middle of the winter season when you need heating the most.
4. High Electric Bills
Having a gas or electric furnace at home can save you money. An effectively functioning furnace does not require a lot of energy to keep your house warm all winter. However, if you notice a sudden shift in energy costs at the end of each month, it’s time for a furnace inspection.
A faulty or failing furnace will require much more energy to keep warming your house. The additional energy it uses to maintain the set temperatures will eventually be reflected in your utility bills. Therefore, if you want to save some cash, replace the furnace. Also, make sure that the heating system that you select is energy efficient.
5. Blowing Cool Air
Sometimes, you might experience cold temperatures when your furnace is running. The logical thing to do in this situation is to head to the thermostat and to crank up the heat. If that does not warm your home, something is wrong with your heating system. Usually, it’s the furnace blowing cool air into the house instead of hot air. That is a clear sign of furnace problems, and you should get the system checked.
In most cases, there’s an issue that is fixable, like a dirty air filter. If a new filter does not do the trick and the furnace still blows in cool air, it’s better to cut your losses and to get a new one as soon as possible. That way, you don’t have to worry about your comfort all winter.
6. Irritating Furnace Noises
The best furnace is quieter than most heating devices you can install in your home. Noises coming from your once-quiet furnace are indications that the furnace requires servicing or urgent repairs. If you notice noises, get in touch with a local furnace technician. These experts will inspect the system and diagnose the problem. Often, furnaces that produce noises even after routine servicing indicate they are on their last legs.
7. Frequent Repairs
A functioning furnace will require some repairs at some point. That is due to the usual wear and tear. You don’t have to worry if you need to call in your heating specialist once a year for furnace maintenance. However, consider how many times you have to call in the furnace specialist. If the service calls are becoming more and more frequent, it’s time to replace the heating system. A furnace that’s not working efficiently and that needs constant repair can become costly to maintain. It would be best to purchase a new furnace and to have one of our technicians install it for you.
Call Us for Reliable Heating Services
Having a functioning furnace is among the highlights of the cold season. A good furnace can keep your living space warm and comfortable throughout the winter months. However, like any other appliance in your home, you might face a failing heating unit that needs a replacement. Look out for the seven signs above to help you know the right time for a furnace replacement. Remember that furnace-related problems can lead to health complications from carbon monoxide, mold, and other air pollutants.
Contact our experts at C & C Heating & Air Conditioning if you notice any of these warning signs in your home. Our technicians will inspect your furnace and will make the necessary recommendations. If you need a furnace replacement, we will install the unit for you to keep your home comfortable and safe. We also offer other services, including duct cleaning, air conditioning, maintenance plans, and emergency repairs to the residents of Macomb, MI. Contact our experts today to schedule your service appointment.
