After many years of excellent temperature control, your furnace will eventually break down. You can extend its lifespan for as long as possible with maintenance, but most heating systems won’t make it past two decades. Fortunately, there are several warning signs you may spot that can let you know it’s time for a system replacement.
Older Than 15 Years
In general, furnaces are designed to last anywhere from 15 to 30 years with routine care. Heating systems past 20 years have often already been repaired several times and are no longer in the best condition. The more you use your furnace over the years, the more its vital components experience wear and tear. When too many parts have rusted, become compromised or failed, it’s time to replace the system before it suddenly leaves you without heating.
Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light
Your furnace’s pilot light is located near the bottom of the system. The furnace uses this light to ignite the gas that heats your home. This flame should always be blue and burning steadily. A trembling yellow or orange flame could indicate there’s a serious problem with the fuel supply. If it’s not the right color, there may be a problem with the gas line or even the heat exchanger.
Higher Energy Bills
It’s common to see increases in your energy consumption in the winter when you switch from air conditioning to heating. Keeping your home comfortable for your family is expensive, especially with an older furnace that can’t keep up with your temperature settings. If you’re seeing huge changes in your utility costs but are using your furnace the same, compare this season’s bills to those from last year. An outdated furnace will only become more inefficient as the years pass. You’ll save more money by replacing it early rather than waiting for it to give out on its own.
Expensive Repair Costs
Not all of the components in your furnace will break down at once. In many cases, you’ll have to pay for repairs if an essential belt breaks or a motor gives out. These repairs can be expensive and will likely only keep your furnace going for a few extra years or months before it’s having trouble with another component. You could instead invest in a newer system that won’t need any additional repair or replacement service for at least a decade.
Strange Noises
Unusual furnace noises mean something has rattled loose or is no longer functioning safely. Look out for any new banging, squeaking, rumbling or whistling sounds. It’s especially important to listen for booming sounds that could point to an issue with the system’s fuel consumption. Any changes in your heating system’s regular sounds should be evaluated by a professional.
Presence of Soot
Soot can collect around your furnace as well as on your home’s vents and registers. This powdery debris will stain your belongings and contaminate your home. Heating systems making large amounts of soot are usually struggling with too much carbon dioxide. This can happen when your older furnace loses its efficiency. Along with impacting your home’s safety, soot can also fill up your filters faster and lower your system’s heating output.
Professional Furnace Installation
Once you start seeing these furnace warning signs, schedule a consultation with one of our technicians at AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning. An expert will give you an estimate of how long your heating system will last and what you can do to protect your comfort in the meantime. You should never count on anyone other than a certified HVAC technician to handle your heating service needs and installations.
While it may seem like the less expensive option to attempt a replacement yourself, this route could eventually cost you more long-term. The system will be at a higher risk of developing premature damage that costs you more in monthly utilities and repairs. Untrained installations also don’t have warranties, meaning any future costs will come out of your budget. Guarantee high-quality results by working with HVAC professionals.
Best Heating and Cooling Services
AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning is a top HVAC company that values customer service in Huntingdon Valley, PA. Our experienced team offers free consultations and 24/7 emergency repair service. Let us maintain and repair your furnace, air conditioner, boiler or heat pump. We also offer air quality solutions and water heater installations. Call AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule an appointment.
