Typically, a furnace doesn’t stop working without warning signs. Many of those can clue you in to the fact that the time is coming to replace your furnace. Here are some things that can let you know it’s time to call a professional.
Your Furnace Is Over 15 Years Old
Typically, a furnace lasts 15 to 30 years. If your furnace is over 15 years old, it is recommended that you start looking for a new one. If you are interested in researching furnaces for your home, speak with a hardware home center or do your own online research. You can also ask a HVAC technician to choose the right energy-efficient furnace for your home.
The Cycle Starts and Stops Frequently
Your furnace is cycling on and off because something in the system is preventing it from finishing a full heating cycle. This is an indication of a few issues. The frequent cycling may indicate a faulty fan motor. It could simply also indicate that the heat sensor needs to be cleaned.
The Furnace Flames are Yellow
Your home’s furnace should always produce a clear, blue flame in order to heat it effectively. When the flames from the burners are yellow, there is the possibility that there a safety issue with your furnace. When you see yellow flames, call a qualified furnace repair company right away.
Loud Noises
If your furnace is rattling, popping, or screeching, it is time for it to be replaced. If you hear a clicking sound, it could be that your flame sensor or igniter needs to be replaced. A simple furnace repair can easily resolve this type of noise.
Your furnace may be emitting gas at high levels if it is making a booming sound. This noise is often caused by a slight delay during ignition. If you notice a persistent gas smell, you should call a professional to replace your furnace.
Water Buildup
Moisture may be an indication of a furnace issue. There may be a lack of ventilation in some rooms of your house if you notice dampness on the ceilings, walls, or windows. The issue may lie with the vents or the furnace if the air is stagnant or wet.
Changes in Temperature in Your Home
If there are sudden temperature changes in different rooms of your home, you should consult a licensed contractor about making a repair. On the other hand, obvious temperature swings may suggest that it is time to consider a new furnace. By the time a furnace reaches the 15-20 year mark, it will gradually lose its efficiency and become unable to heat your home thoroughly.
Signs of Animals Around Your Furnace
Mice, rats, and squirrels can wreak havoc on your home’s mechanical components. Check the vents for chewed wires if you notice nest material or animal droppings near your furnace. Don’t forget to look on the roof and the vent hoods for signs of animal activity.
Changing the Thermostat Regularly
It’s a good idea to have a technician visit your home to check the furnace and the thermostat if you and your family are constantly changing the thermostat to find that perfect temperature. You could have a faulty thermostat or your furnace isn’t able to meet your home’s heating demands.
Increasing Utility Bills
As a furnace approaches the end of its 15-year lifespan, it becomes less able to deliver heat evenly throughout your house. As a result, your energy bills would be higher. Extreme cold can increase the amount of work your furnace does. When a furnace fails to operate at moderate temperatures, it may have more serious problems.
Inspect your furnace filter first, as a dirty filter will restrict airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder to maintain temperatures. A furnace that uses that much power is hard to maintain, and it’s even harder for your finances.
Repetitive Service Calls
Each furnace will require maintenance and repair during its lifetime. Having recurring issues, on the other hand, is a sign of underlying issues that are much bigger. There’s a significant risk you’ll have worse problems in the future if your furnace has been serviced frequently in the last two years or less.
Call an HVAC Technician
You should contact an HVAC contractor if you notice any of the above symptoms with your furnace. However, you can get ahead of problems with your furnace in the winter by scheduling a fall maintenance appointment prior to the temperature dropping. This will ensure that your furnace is operating at its best and can catch problems before they become symptomatic.
