Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Furnace

How old is your furnace? It depends on the type of furnace and how well it has been maintained, but the average life expectancy ranges from about 12-20 years. Modern models are expected to last between 20 and 30 years, but we’ll see how that goes once we get there.
For now, if yours is getting into the 15-year range or so, it’s time to keep a sharp eye out for the signs that it’s time to replace your furnace. Here’s what to watch for.

1. Cha-Ching! Energy Bills on the Rise

Okay, so energy bills seem to always be on the rise. However, if you notice that they start going up faster than you expect, it might not be the utility company’s fault. As a furnace wears out, it becomes less efficient, meaning it will require more energy to heat your home.

Space heating accounts for approximately 43% of your monthly energy bill so you can bet you’ll notice if your furnace starts consuming even a small amount extra.

2. Noises in the Night

Your furnace will always make a bit of noise when it is operating. However, if you start to notice that it’s normal noises are getting louder or unusual rattles, hums, and buzzes begin, it might be time to replace that furnace.

3. Uneven Heat

An old furnace simply won’t do its job well and will have trouble evenly heating your entire home. If you start noticing chilly spots where there shouldn’t be a draft or that one or more rooms don’t even seem to be getting heated, check your furnace.

4. Dusty Bookshelves

There will always be dust in your home, there’s no way to get around that. But does it seem like you have to clean more often than normal? An old furnace could be blowing dust and debris around your home and contributing to the mess.

5. Repairs

Any furnace can break down, even a brand new one. But if your older furnace is breaking down frequently or you are faced with an expensive repair, it may be time to replace your furnace and cut down on those repair bills altogether. As the furnace continues to wear out, this will only get worse.

6. Visible Signs of Age/Damage

As a furnace ages, visible signs of wear will appear on the unit itself. Watch out for cracks, rust, leaks, or other structural problems with the unit. It’s important to note that a few cosmetic issues don’t mean that you have to replace your furnace immediately. However, if you notice quite a few, particularly if they are combined with some of these other signs, it might be time to think about a replacement.

Ready to Replace Your Furnace?

So, when should you replace your furnace? When one or more of these signs start appearing!

Ready to replace your furnace in East Atlanta? Here at Omega Heating and Air, we install and service energy-efficient furnaces so you can enjoy a warm home without ridiculous energy bills.

Contact us today to request a free quote!