Should You Replace Your Home's Furnace?

When the warm weather of summer finally comes, the last thing you may be thinking about is replacing your furnace. However, now is a good time to take care of this job since you won't need heat for quite a while. Here are some reasons to replace your home's furnace.

The Age

You should assess the age of the furnace to determine if it is approaching the end of its natural lifespan. It is typical for a furnace to last as long as 20 years. While the furnace isn't going to stop working when it hits the 20-year mark, it is a good time to evaluate how it is doing. If the furnace has been breaking down constantly and requiring frequent service calls, it may be time to replace the furnace with a new model.

That aging furnace is likely costing you more in energy to heat your home as well. Furnaces have come a long way over the years, and are now more efficient than ever. If you are dreading the cost of a new furnace, know that it can provide cost savings over time due to decreased energy use.

The Flame

Another way to tell if a furnace is in need of replacement is by looking at the flame that it produces when running. A furnace that is working great will have a flame that is bright and blue for natural gas and slight green if you use propane. Be on the lookout for a flame that has turned yellow or flickering. This means that there is a combustion issue with the furnace that should be addressed right away. When combined with the units age, it can help you decide if it is worth repairing the burner or just getting a whole new furnace.

The Air Conditioner

It is worth taking a look at the shape of the air conditioner as well, and see if that is in need of replacement. The two units share a lot of the same components, and you can often get a deal if you are replacing your air conditioner and furnace at the same time. It will help maximize the efficiency of the operation of your HVAC system and even save some money in the form of a tax rebate by upgrading to a new and improved energy efficient heating and cooling solution.

When in doubt about the need to replace your furnace, reach out to a local HVAC contractor. They can come inspect the unit and let you know if it is time to get a new one. For more information, contact companies like Biggerstaff Plumbing Heating & Air.

Share