When Should You Upgrade Your Furnace?

There is a lot to contemplate when it comes to taking care of your home. 

• Should I get a home alarm system? 

• What types of fixtures meet my lighting needs but are still energy efficient? 
• Should I install carpets or hardwood? 

As if that’s not enough, add one more thing to the list: When should I replace my heater? 

Your heater shouldn’t require constant attention, but it shouldn’t be taken for granted, either. Ignoring your system could result in indoor air that is loaded with dust or allergens (or worse!), or even an inefficient heating system that is wasting energy and money with every heating bill. 

But how do I know if it’s time to replace my heating unit? 

The following warning signs can help you determine if you just need a quick service or if it’s time to replace your current heating system. 

1. Frequent Repair Costs 

It is normal for a heater to eventually need a new belt or a little love once a year to make sure everything is running smoothly, but a well-maintained heating system should work without much mending along the way. A few signs that your system may be in need of replacing are below: 

• Calling the service technician repeatedly for the same issue; 
• Needing numerous visits during the same heating season; 

• Constantly spending money simply to keep your house comfortably warm. 

A general rule to remember: if annual repair costs reach 50 percent of the present value of the heater, it’s likely time to replace your furnace. 

2. Energy Efficiency 

Are your utility bills are a little more expensive than this time last year? That may be a sign that some part of your HVAC system is weakening. Most companies can provide a residential energy audit which can show you easily remedied inefficiencies like weather-stripping around your doors and windows or attic insulation. It may also be the first step in deciding if your heating unit is going out. Older heating units can be very inefficient, while newer systems are much more efficient at heating your home. Also, upgrading to a high-efficiency product could mean tax credits or utility rebates and incentives to help you recoup the cost of the new system. 

3. Old Age 

Heating equipment were never designed to last as long as your home. Newer, more efficient units are coming out all the time. But how long should your heating unit last? The magic number for a furnace or boiler is 15 years. But keep in mind many old furnaces operate at an efficiency of just 65 percent or poorer! A replacement that’s been qualified with the Energy Star rating can be up to 30% more efficient, and that’s a difference you’ll notice in your home and your bank account. 

4. Excessive Noise 

If you are having to raise your voice to talk because your heater is too loud, that could be a sign that your duct system is undersized and too much air is being pushed through too small an opening. 

Other noises like squealing, jolting, bumping, or banging could be signs of a mechanical problem. It could be as straightforward as a worn belt, but it may mean an internal component of your unit has loosened or come completely disconnected. 

Today’s latest units function more soundlessly than ever. Often you’ll have to really pay attention to even know when they’re running. If noise pollution is an issue for you, that may be reason enough to upgrade to newer equipment. 

5. Temperature and Comfort Issues 

If you are having to constantly hike up the heating system to keep things in the house cozy, that should be a major warning that it’s time to re-evaluate your furnace. There are several things that could cause this issue – it may be fixed with a new thermostat that allows you more control – so before you assume that you’re in for a whole new heating system, give some consideration to your thermostat. 

6. Humidity Issues 

In the winter, low humidity makes the air inside your home feel colder than it is, often tricking you into bumping up the thermostat. Common issues when the humidity is too low are dry air, sinusitis, and chapped skin. Improper humidity can even negatively impact wooden floors and furniture. Today’s best heating systems help to keep this important balance right where it should be, adding or removing moisture before it ever enters the heating system. 

7. Air Quality Issues 

A number of issues that don’t directly relate to temperature can be improved significantly with an expertly designed and properly installed HVAC system. If you are experiencing issues with household odors, airborne allergens, such as pollen or pet dander, germs, ozone, and even plain old dust, consulting an experienced heating system contractor can start you on the road to fixing them. 

So you do all your research and decide you do need a new heating unit, or you want to upgrade your furnace to green technology, replace your home’s ductwork, or do a total overhaul of the entire system, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today for a free, no-obligation Home Comfort Analysis.