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We won’t face chillier weather for a bit longer, and you’re probably still not giving much thought to your home heating situation. In your mind, you probably think that the old reliable furnace you’ve used for years will be ready to go as soon as you need it.
But what if it isn’t? No furnace lasts forever, and trying to push an old furnace past its “replace by” date is risky: you risk higher heating bills, too many repairs, poor performance, emergency breakdowns, and even safety concerns.
Take the time during the fall, when it’s easy to schedule HVAC service in Saraland, to think about your current furnace. Below, we’ll give you a guide that will help you know when it’s time for a new furnace installation.
Signs That It May Be Time for a New Furnace
1. Age of Your Furnace
The average furnace has a lifespan of 15–20 years. If your furnace is within or beyond this range, it’s time to seriously consider a replacement. Older furnaces tend to lose efficiency, leading to higher energy bills, and they become more prone to frequent breakdowns. Even if your old furnace appears to be running fine, it may not be performing optimally, causing you to pay more for less effective heating.
2. Rising Heating Bills
Have you noticed your heating bills creeping up over the last few years? As furnaces age, they lose their efficiency, meaning they have to work harder to heat your home, which drives up energy costs. This inefficiency may be due to wear and tear on the system or outdated technology compared to today’s energy-efficient models. A new furnace could significantly lower your monthly utility bills, helping to offset the initial cost of installation.
3. Frequent Repairs
If it feels like you’re always calling for furnace repairs, it may be more economical to replace your furnace rather than continually investing in costly fixes. A good rule of thumb: if the cost of repairs in a year equals more than half the cost of a new furnace, replacement is the smarter financial decision. Frequent repairs not only add up financially but also signal that the system is nearing the end of its service life.
4. Uneven Heating or Cold Spots
Your furnace is designed to keep your entire home comfortable. If you notice that some rooms are consistently colder than others or your furnace struggles to maintain a steady temperature, it’s a sign that the system is no longer working efficiently. Uneven heating is often an indication of a failing furnace or an aging system that can no longer handle your home’s heating needs effectively.
5. Strange Noises or Odors
Loud or unusual sounds coming from your furnace, such as banging, rattling, or screeching, are never good signs. These noises could indicate worn-out components or significant mechanical problems that could lead to a complete system failure. Similarly, strange odors—especially those that smell like gas or burning—should be addressed immediately, as they could pose a serious safety risk.
Why Replace Now?
Fall is a great time to schedule furnace installation because HVAC companies aren’t as busy as they are during peak heating season. You can schedule service at a time that’s convenient for you, rather than scrambling to replace a broken furnace in the middle of winter.
If you think it’s time for a new furnace, we’re here to help. Our expert HVAC technicians will guide you through the process, from selecting the right furnace to ensuring a smooth installation.