Has Your Furnace Reached the End of Its Lifespan?

Have you had the same furnace in your home “forever?” Then it is likely that you will need to replace it soon. When winter shows up in Crawfordsville, you will first need a reliable heating system. An old furnace is not as reliable as it should be.

So, if your furnace has seen better days and is more than 15 years old, you should consider replacing it. This is not only for reliability but because a new system is better for the environment and will cost you less in terms of heating bills.

Not sure whether your furnace needs to be replaced? Book an inspection with Summers PHC today and get the advice you need. Get a FREE service call when you book any paid repair. Get this limited-time offer!

Can a Furnace Last More Than 20 Years?

Technically speaking, some furnaces (electric ones) can last up to 30 years. This is because they have fewer mechanical parts that can break or need servicing. That said, it does not mean you should let your furnace run until it is 30 years old.

Just because it is still working does not mean it is working efficiently. Whether you have a gas, electric, or oil furnace, you must look for the following signs that it is time for an upgrade:

Signs Your Furnace Is On Its Last Legs

Rising energy bills are among the first and most obvious signs your furnace will not last much longer. When you start paying more for electricity, your electric furnace is likely no longer as efficient as it used to be.

If you plan to replace your furnace, consider a gas version, which can significantly lower your heating bills.

Poor Warm Air Distribution

Another sign that you need a new furnace is cold spots throughout your Crawfordsville home. You may notice that rooms that are always cold are now colder, or some rooms are far too hot. If you walk through your home and the temperature fluctuates, it could mean your heat exchanger is on its way out.

The problem is that it could also mean your heat exchanger is cracked, resulting in high levels of carbon monoxide in your home. Always check that your CO detector is in working order so you can be alerted if you have to evacuate.

Declining Air Quality

If your furnace is old and poorly maintained, the air quality in your home will suffer. You may find more dust than usual or notice the air seems drier. These indicate your furnace’s air filters are clogged and not working well.

Other Signs to Look Out For

There are other red flags to look out for, too. If your furnace makes strange sounds like rattling or booming, there could be a serious problem. Rattling could indicate a crack in the heat exchanger. This can become a dangerous issue because of CO.

A booming or banging sound from a gas furnace may indicate an issue with the gas pressure. This is not something you should try to fix yourself. If you take your furnace apart looking for the problem, gas could leak into your house.

The same applies if there is a strong smell emanating from your furnace. Any smell that is not dust could mean a serious issue, like a gas leak. If you smell anything like rotten eggs or sulfur, it is important to turn off the power and leave the house.

Make sure your family and pets get outside safely and call for help. Do not go back inside until the problem has been resolved.

What to Do If Your Furnace Breaks Down

If your furnace has been having problems for a while and it breaks down before you can inspect it, you should have it replaced. Having it repaired will likely cost you more.

First, contact a reputable HVAC contractor to assess the size of your Crawfordsville home and your family’s heating needs. The HVAC technician will advise you on the best type of furnace to get.

You should also look for a contractor that offers more than installation. Ideally, you want a contract to install, maintain, and repair your furnace when needed.

Maintenance, in particular, is important for your new furnace. The more regularly you have it serviced, the longer it will last.

How Getting a New Furnace Will Benefit You

There are several benefits to getting a new furnace. Apart from being toasty warm in winter, you will also have a warranty. If the furnace shows any malfunctioning or defect, you can have it repaired or replaced at no additional cost.

This will help you save money, as you won’t have to fork out extra for unexpected repairs. You can also be assured of a reliable furnace when you need it the most.

Fewer Safety Risks

With a new furnace, your home is no longer at risk of excessive levels of carbon monoxide. A new furnace also has better safety features because it complies with the relevant standards.

Lesser Impact on the Environment

Technology ensures that your new furnace will be more energy-efficient than ever. This means lower energy bills and a far less destructive impact on the environment.

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling Can Help With All Your Furnace Requirements

Whether you need advice on the type of furnace to upgrade to or just want to have your existing furnace inspected, Summers PHC can help. We are experts in all things that relate to furnace inspections, repairs, maintenance, and replacements.

Keep your Crawfordsville home efficiently warm this winter. Call 765-310-3070 to find out more about our services. Or simply book your required service online. Don’t forget to check out our local specials that will save you even more!