A cold breeze and drop in temperatures are starting to replace the warm sunshine we got used to this summer. You’re likely digging out your coziest sweaters and your warmest socks to brave the new season’s weather. Soon it will be time to turn on the furnace and begin heating your home. In order to ensure you are heating your home with maximum efficiency, it is important to identify any issues with your furnace before they turn into big problems. These seven signs could indicate that you need a new furnace.
-
Age of Your Furnace
If you have had the same furnace for fifteen years or more then it is time to start considering a newer option. Typically, in Ontario weather, furnaces are expected to last roughly fifteen years. Having said this, it is wise to start shopping for a furnace and replacing it before it reaches the end of this lifespan to avoid having to rush to replace it. There is nothing worse than replacing your furnace in the middle of the winter when wait times are longer, product availability is sparser and prices are often higher.
-
Increased Maintenance
Another sign that it may be time to consider a replacement furnace installation is if it is requiring servicing more often. A furnace that is not very old and is working efficiently will not cost you a lot in maintenance or repairs. If you are spending more than $500.00 on repairs for your furnace, it is recommended to begin considering a new furnace as the price of repairs will no longer be more cost-effective than a new furnace.
-
Rising Utility Bills
One of the most obvious signs that it is time for a new furnace is rising utility bills. A furnace that is working effectively and efficiently should not cause your utility bills to increase substantially. Make sure that you pay attention to the cost of your utilities each month as the increase may be subtle. Newer models of furnaces are required to operate at a higher degree of efficiency than older models, therefore saving you money on your utility bills in the long run.
-
Visible Deterioration
Rust, cracks or excessive amounts of soot are all indications that it is time to get a new furnace as the actual body of the furnace is beginning to deteriorate. It is important not to ignore these signs as they may threaten the safety of your home or be dangerous for your health.
-
Uneven Heating
If you begin to notice that different parts of your house are very different temperatures than they used to be, then this may be an indication that your furnace is not operating to the best of its ability. While it is natural for some rooms to remain colder than others even with the furnace running properly (due to windows, insulation and size), newer furnaces are designed to heat a home more evenly in spite of these differences.
-
Change in Cycling Patterns
If you have had your furnace for many years you have likely become accustomed to its cycling patterns. If you notice that the cycling pattern has changed for your furnace then it may be time for an upgrade. Pay attention to when your furnace is turning on and off and how long it is running for in order to identify changes in the cycling pattern.
-
Increased Noise
There is nothing worse than a furnace that interrupts your daily life with excessive noise. Older furnaces will begin making popping or banging noises and demonstrate an overall louder sound when they are running. If this noise level begins to irritate you, a new, quieter model may be the right option for you.
Are you interested in a furnace replacement and installation in order to ensure proper heating of your home this winter? Contact us at Aire One for assistance.