5 Signs Your Furnace Might Need to be Replaced
A well-maintained furnace can last more than a decade, but eventually, wear and tear makes replacement likely. An updated furnace also helps with energy efficiency and utility savings. Mr. Furnace provides furnace installation with industry-leading systems. Here are five signs your furnace might need to be replaced:
1. Frequent Repairs
To keep running smoothly, furnaces should receive regular maintenance. This maintenance usually involves thorough cleaning and tuning. Anything more than your annual maintenance, like replacing parts, could indicate your furnace is struggling. If your repair bills start to add up to the cost of a replacement, it also may be time to look into a new furnace. Mr. Furnace installs reliable, high-efficiency furnaces in the Macomb and Oakland County communities that help alleviate the need for constant repairs.
2. More Than 15 Years Old
Furnaces can wear down as they age, with most having a lifespan of around fifteen years. After this time, furnaces could become less energy-efficient and reliable and can impact your comfort during winter months. Other factors that affect how long your furnace may last include how frequently it is used, how often it’s properly tuned, how well your home is insulated, and the condition of your air filter. If enough time has passed, consider upgrading to a high-performance option like the Trane furnaces installed by Mr. Furnace. We offer free estimates on furnace installation to see if it’s the right option for you.
3. Unusual Noises
Some noises when your furnace turns on are normal, especially after it has sat idle during the summer. This is usually a pop or click as the furnace turns on, followed by a regular thrum as it continues to warm the home. Any unusual sounds after the initial start-up might suggest a failing furnace that needs repair or replacement. Here are some abnormal sounds and what they could mean:
- Popping: Some parts of the furnace are affected by temperature fluctuations.
- Rattling: This may indicate loose ducts or equipment.
- Screeching: This usually comes from a damaged furnace blower motor or belt.
- Loud humming: Abnormally loud humming could indicate a problem with the blower motor wearing out from age.
- Clicking: This can point to an issue with the flame sensor or ignitor.
- Booming: A problem with gas emission and a delayed ignition process causes a booming sound. Lingering gas odor is another indicator of an emissions problem.
4. Inconsistent Heating
Inconsistent heating affects the comfort of your home and how hard your furnace works to maintain the temperature. A struggling furnace can cause issues such as temperature fluctuations. If some areas or rooms in your home remain cold, your furnace may not be right for your needs, making an upgrade something to explore. Larger homes might need two furnaces to prevent overloading and to make sure every part of the home is heated equally.
5. Poor Air Quality
Lingering soot or dust near the furnace register can signal that the furnace is having problems with air quality. Poor air quality isn’t healthy and may lead to headaches, coughing, sneezing, congestion, or other symptoms. Other signs of poor air quality in the home include excessive dander, quick dirt build-up, and indoor plants that start to struggle. Furnaces with excess soot residue might produce too much carbon dioxide. If changing your filter does not improve this, contact a heating company like Mr. Furnace to pinpoint the issue or install a new furnace.
Furnace Installation From Mr. Furnace
New furnace units can balance energy consumption and contribute to a safer home by reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Mr. Furnace provides heating repair and offers a regular maintenance program, during which we’ll let you know if it’s time to think about a new furnace. Learn more about our furnace installation options and schedule an appointment today.