When winter comes, you want to make sure you have an updated furnace to keep you warm. Whether you have one powered by propane, gas, electric, or even solar, it will not last forever. An outdated furnace costs a lot to operate and will lead to higher bills this winter. Before you consider if it’s time for a new heating installation, find out whether you have an outdated furnace and what problems you might face.
Furnace Age
The most common sign you have an outdated furnace is if you have an older unit. Think about how much TVs changed over the years. New tech comes out every year and impacts tons of things including heaters and HVAC systems. You cannot expect a furnace from 10 years ago to perform as well or run as efficiently as a modern one does. Most furnaces last for a minimum of 15 years. With proper care and maintenance, you can expect to get 20 to 25 years. Some are lucky enough to have furnaces that last even longer. Once it reaches the end of its lifespan, you’ll experience even more problems with it.
No Smart Features
Having a smart HVAC system helps you save on your heating bills. You can connect your thermostat to your furnace, set the temperature, and walk away, knowing that it will maintain that temperature. This even lets you schedule temperature changes during the day, such as lowering it during the day when your house is empty and turning it back up to a comfy level before you get home. You can even adjust the temperature when you’re on vacation. An outdated furnace will lack all of these options.
Hot and Cold Spots
An efficient heating system maintains a consistent temperature around your home. You’ll notice every room and floor feels as warm and toasty as you want. An outdated furnace struggles to keep up with the demands of your home, which leads to hot and cold spots forming. You also want to look out for temperature fluctuations. This is when the temperature shifts despite your settings. Any temperature changes are usually a sign that your furnace is getting close to the end of its life.
High Energy Bills
Even with regular heating maintenance in Monument, CO, an outdated furnace will no longer operate efficiently. The average power bill those in Monument pay depends on the size of their home and the season. You may have slightly higher bills in the winter when you run your AC and lower bills as the fall temperature drops. Compare your bills from previous years, and if you notice a slight increase in your power bills from one winter to the next, it’s time for a new furnace. An outdated furnace will just keep causing your energy bill to rise.
Other Signs
We get calls from homeowners about their furnaces every winter because they notice new signs that their furnaces can no longer keep up with them. Some of these signs relate to the noises their furnaces produce. While a popping sound is normal, a rattling sound often goes along with one or more loose parts. Humming and screeching sounds occur when the furnace has a bad or faulty blower motor. You may hear booming or clicking sounds, too.
Don’t waste another year struggling with your furnace. For quality and reliable heating services, turn to BullsEye Plumbing Heating & Air. Schedule an inspection with our professional team today and we’ll help you determine if you’ll benefit from a new unit.