Is It Time To Install A New Furnace?
In general, your furnace should last anywhere between 15 and 20 years, although many factors impact the lifespan of your particular unit. For example, getting your furnace serviced on a routine basis can increase its lifespan dramatically. Also, ensuring that you pick the right size furnace for your space and making sure it is installed properly makes a huge impact on the longevity of the unit. If your furnace is too small for your space, then it will likely have to work much harder to keep up with the demands of your home. This not only puts strain on your furnace, but it also runs up your electric bill. If your furnace was not installed by a professional, there is a good chance that many issues are hiding that could be negatively impacting your furnace’s airflow. This is why furnace installation is a home project that is best left to an HVAC professional. Here are a few common signs to watch out for that might indicate that you need to install a new furnace:
Rising Energy Bill
If your electric bill has been steadily increasing during the winter months when you are running your heating system, it might be because your furnace is losing efficiency. Obviously, during the coldest months of the year, you should expect your electric bill to go up, but with consistent usage, your costs should be relatively predictable. If you start to notice a dramatic increase, you need to call an HVAC professional to check the efficiency of your furnace.
Uneven Heating
Have you noticed that some rooms in your house heat up much easier than others while your heating system is on? This could be a sign that your furnace is struggling to distribute heat evenly. If you find yourself having to constantly adjust the thermostat to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, this is a clear sign that your furnace is not operating efficiently.
Excessive Noise
If you begin to hear unusual noises coming from your furnace such as rattling or banging, this is an indication that there could be a serious problem with your unit. If this is the case, you need to call an HVAC professional as soon as possible to assess the issue. Without immediate attention, you could be risking serious damage to your furnace and your home.
Constant Repair
Towards the end of your furnace’s lifespan, it will likely require multiple repairs to keep it working at its maximum capacity. If you find yourself calling a technician to come and look at your furnace frequently, it is time to consider investing in a new furnace installation. Ultimately, this investment will save you money while also giving you peace of mind.
Dry or Dusty Air
If the air in your home has started to feel dry or dusty, it might be because your furnace is not cleaning and humidifying the air properly. This could also result in you or a loved one experiencing increased allergy or respiratory issues because your furnace is not circulating air properly. Breathing in this heavily polluted air isn’t safe for anyone living in the home, but it could especially affect those with pre-existing upper respiratory issues. To keep your home safer and your air cleaner, consider installing a new furnace—especially since newer furnaces tend to be better at filtering out particles in your air.
Although this list offers many of the most common signs to watch out for, it is not an exhaustive list. As a rule of thumb, at Hurlburt, we would recommend always calling out for an HVAC professional when you are worried about something you’ve noticed with your furnace. You can never be too safe! If you are ready to get started with furnace installation in River Falls, WI, then reach out to our team immediately. We can get your home ready for winter in no time!