Like all appliances in your Greenwood home, furnaces have a finite lifespan, and there will come a time when replacement is more practical than repairs. How will you know when it’s time to replace your old furnace with a more efficient, reliable model? Here are several points you’ll want to consider when deciding if a replacement is your best option.
Age of Your Furnace
Greenwood homeowners can count on high-quality furnaces to keep their homes warm for about 15 years. If your furnace is approaching that age or has already passed it, that replacement may be on the horizon. Not only are older furnaces more likely to break down when you need them most, but they lack the energy efficiency of newer models. Upgrading to a more modern and energy-efficient furnace can result in significant savings on energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and let you take advantage of incentives and tax breaks.
Frequent Costly Repairs
If your furnace breaks down again and again, it may be a sign that your system is on its last legs. As furnaces age, problems tend to occur more frequently, leading to a drain on your wallet. If the cost of repairs is more than 50 percent of the furnace’s current value, it’s probably more economical to invest in a new system. A new system will not only save you on your monthly energy bills but its warranty will give you added peace of mind.
Climbing Energy Bills
As furnaces age, they become less energy-efficient and have to use more energy to keep your home comfortable. If you’ve noticed that your energy bills keep increasing, your furnace may no longer be operating at its peak efficiency. Upgrading to an energy-efficient model should result in substantial savings and may even qualify for energy rebates or incentives and tax breaks.
Obsolete Technology
Advancements in heating technology have led to more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly furnaces. If your current furnace lacks features such as variable-speed motors, electronic ignition, or smart thermostats, you may be missing out on significant energy savings. Upgrading to a new furnace will also enhance overall performance, providing you with more control and convenience.
Those Cold Spots
Are there parts of your Greenwood home that never seem to get warm enough? Your furnace may be struggling to distribute heat effectively. Potential causes may include a malfunctioning blower motor, clogged ducts, or an inefficient system. Investing in a new furnace with advanced features can help provide consistent and comfortable heating throughout your home.
Weird Noises
If your furnace has started making frequent and unsettling noises like banging, rattling, or grinding, it may be an indication that it’s nearing the end of its life. Not only will a new furnace eliminate those frightening sounds, but it will also provide more reliable heating.
Safety Issues
All furnaces that use combustion to heat air generate carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly. If your furnace has aged to the point where the heat exchanger has corroded, it may be leaking carbon monoxide into your home. Have family members been complaining about unusual headaches or dizziness? Those are signs your furnace should be checked right away. Installing a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace is also a wise move.
Professional Evaluation
If you’re wondering whether your Greenwood home’s furnace is still in good shape or is ready for replacement, call the Johnson Heating Cooling & Plumbing team. We’ll inspect your furnace to see how well it’s performing. If it looks like it’s time for a better, more efficient model, we’ll help you understand your options so you can make your family’s furnace choice with complete confidence.
