Most people can get a decade or two out of their furnace before it’s time to replace it. However, this life expectancy depends on a number of factors like the climate, the type of maintenance it’s received, and many other factors. If you’re wondering if it’s time for heating service in Hampton, GA, to replace your furnace, here are a few factors you should consider.
Old Age
One of the first considerations people need to make is the overall age of their furnace. A typical furnace lasts 15-20 years. Although many systems can last longer than this, some may not last that long, especially if maintenance has frequently been overlooked. A furnace that has a regular inspection and tune up every fall is more likely to last 20 years or more. Age isn’t the only consideration, though. If your furnace is old but still working well and rarely in need of repairs, you may be able to hold off for a while if you don’t notice any of the following problems.
Energy Efficiency
Lower energy efficiency is likely to be a problem in an older furnace, even if it’s not experiencing any other problems. Newer models are significantly more energy efficient, so if you want to lower your monthly utility bills, replacing the furnace is a good place to start. In addition, when a furnace begins to wear out, it will use more energy to run, and you’ll notice higher utility bills. In some cases, heating repair can solve this problem, but in many situations, the only way to improve efficiency is by replacing the entire furnace.
Repair Frequency
Repair frequency is another important consideration. If you need frequent repairs, and the repairs are steadily becoming more serious and more expensive, you may be better off replacing your furnace, especially if it’s at least 15 years old. If your furnace is in need of major repair, the general rule is that if the repair costs 50% of the cost of a new furnace, it’s best to just replace the unit.
Heating Performance
You also need to take heating performance into account. Problems like uneven heating, poor airflow, or air that’s not as warm as it should be can all indicate that your system is wearing out. An older furnace has difficulty heating the air and pushing it throughout the home, so if you find that you’re not comfortable, then you may need a system that works more effectively and one that’s properly sized for your home.
Humidity Issues
A good heating and cooling system will help maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home. This is important not only for your comfort and health but for your home as well, especially if you have wood floors. The AC removes humidity to cool your home, but in the winter, low humidity can be a common problem. In some cases, the furnace can be the cause of too little humidity, so replacing the furnace might solve the problem.
Loud Noises
Loud noises from the HVAC system are always an indication that you need heating and air conditioning repair in Hampton, GA. If you notice any buzzing, rattling, humming, or banging sounds, you need to get professional help right away. In some cases, the source of noise can be remedied with a simple repair, or in other cases, you may need to replace your furnace. Contact Omega Heating & Air today to learn more.