Dont Let An Old Furnace Give You The Blues
Are you struggling with a furnace that is undependable and leaves you out in the cold? Your furnace is an essential part of your home. It provides heat when you need it giving you that nice cozy feeling on snowy winter mornings. Likewise, as a semi-permanent and relatively costly appliance, your furnace is probably something you rarely plan on replacing. However, if you have an older, less efficient model or one that consistently fails to deliver, replacing it can actually save you money, especially during the cold months when it works the hardest.
Age
When a furnace doesn’t work properly, it lets you know in one form or another. Age is often a good indicator that it’s time to invest in a new appliance. According to Consumerreports.org, the average furnace lasts for 18 years. Newer ENERGY STAR rated models are 15 percent or more efficient than others types of furnaces, whether they are gas or electric air. If you’ve had your furnace for 15 years or longer, you can cut your heating bills which will pay for the cost of a new furnace over time.
Repairs
Frequent repairs within the last few years are another strong indication that your furnace probably needs to be replaced. Furnaces commonly need repairs during the last two years of their lifespan. These costs can quickly add up until it no longer makes sense to keep putting money into a furnace that simply can’t be depended on. When you must have space heaters on hand, it’s a good sign that your furnace is on its last leg. A new furnace will save you the cost of repairs and reduce your monthly expenses.
Noise
Most furnaces make some type of noise when you turn them on. Rattling, popping and banging noises however, are not typical for furnaces. Pay close attention the next time you turn your furnace on, especially if it’s an older model, as these are particularly prone to this kind of problem. Also try to make note of how often your blower turns on and off or if cold instead of hot air comes out. Both occurrences are a clear sign that you need a new professionally installed furnace. With a new and more efficient furnace, your home will be quieter and better heated, which means less frustration and more money.
Inconsistency
You turn your furnace on to get the heat you need to be comfortable in your home. Sometimes though, what you get is the exact opposite. If you’re constantly getting up to adjust your thermostat because the rooms in your home are either too hot or too cold, this is a good indication that your furnace is no longer able to evenly distribute heat. Once your furnace becomes incapacitated in this way, you are better off purchasing a new one since fixing the problem is likely to be financially burdensome.
The more problems your furnace exhibits, the less likely you are to get what you want out of it. Should you and your heating and cooling consultant decide that you need a new furnace, the long-term efficiency and financial savings you will enjoy are sure to make up for any temporary cost. You’ll also have the benefit of knowing that you don’t have to worry about buying a new furnace for many years to come.