When to Replace the Furnace in Your Broad Ripple Home

Winter in Broad Ripple means it’s time to turn on the furnace. Some families prefer to get their furnace going in late fall as it can become chilly.

Your heating system is a strong barrier between you and the cold. But when your furnace stops working efficiently, the chill will set in a big way.

If this happens, do you repair or replace the furnace? How do you determine which option will cost you less and save you more over the long term?

Recognizing early warning signs of furnace failure can help you prevent an unexpected breakdown. It will also go a long way in preventing high energy bills.

Leave the cold outside this winter with a thorough furnace inspection by Summers PHC. Our team will advise you on whether to get repairs or a replacement. You get a FREE service call with any paid repair. (Limited time offer).

How Long Do Furnaces Last?

The average lifespan of a furnace is from 15 to 20 years. Lack of maintenance and heavy usage affect this lifespan. The type of furnace you have will also make a difference in the overall lifespan. For instance, gas furnaces run out of gas (so to speak) within 15 years, while electric models can last up to 20.

If your furnace has reached or exceeded 20 years, a replacement will likely cost you less than constant repairs. A new, more efficient furnace will save you money as it uses less energy.

Signs a Furnace Replacement Is Due

The age of your furnace is not the only indicator for a replacement. If one or more of the following scenarios apply to you, it is time to consider getting a new furnace:

Steady Rise in Your Energy Bills

If your usage has not changed, but your bills keep increasing, there is a problem. And that problem is likely your furnace’s efficiency.

As your heating system gets older, it also gets worn out. This means it takes more energy to produce the same amount of heat you are used to.

The more energy the system needs and uses, the higher your energy bills get.

Frequent Repairs

If your furnace keeps breaking down or you constantly struggle to switch it on, you should consider replacing it. The cost of multiple fixes will always be much more than a once-off replacement.

And the problems are not going to go away. Fixing an aging system is the same as patching up the issues. Eventually, no more patches will be left, and the system will fail.

Uneven Heating or Cold Spots

Have you noticed cold spots in multiple rooms? Or does the temperature noticeably dip as you move through your Broad Ripple home? This potentially means that your furnace can no longer provide consistent heating.

As it struggles to keep going, it will not be able to distribute the heat evenly. That is why some areas in your home stay cold while others become too warm.

If you install a new furnace, you will have instant temperature regulation and far better airflow.

Excessive Dust and Bad Air Quality

If your furnace struggles to heat your Broad Ripple home, it will likely not be better at filtering the air. This will lead to dust accumulating in your home and increased allergens in the air. If the air quality in your home has declined, upgrade to a furnace with advanced filtration.

This will not only improve the comfort levels in your home but also protect the health of your family.

Your Furnace Runs Constantly

If your furnace suddenly cycles on and off constantly or runs continuously without properly heating your home, it is starting to fail. A malfunctioning heat exchanger or aging blower motor usually causes this problem.

Why Replacing Your Furnace Now Is a Smart Decision

You should not delay replacing your furnace if it becomes obvious that your current unit will not last much longer.

The sooner you replace your furnace, the faster you will enjoy these benefits:

• Fewer repairs and maintenance costs. A modern furnace is unlikely to require constant repairs or even emergency repairs.
• Increased home value. A new and efficient furnace can increase your home’s resale value. If a potential buyer sees that they do not have to replace the furnace, it could motivate them to make an offer.

Choosing the Right Furnace

When choosing a new furnace for your Broad Ripple home, there are several factors to consider.

• Fuel type. Gas furnaces are most common in Indianapolis because they are reliable and efficient at consistently heating a home.

An electric furnace is the next best thing if you cannot access natural gas. Just keep in mind that electric furnaces usually cost more to operate. You also have the option of an oil furnace, but this type is not as common.

• Energy efficiency. The higher a furnace’s Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, the better. An 80% AFUE rating equals standard efficiency, while 90-98% AFUE equals high efficiency. You want the latter for cost savings and environmental benefits.
• Investing in a furnace that is big enough to heat your home is crucial. However, it should not be too big, as it will cycle too frequently, making it inefficient. A professional HVAC technician can help you calculate the required load and find the correct size furnace.

Need Repairs or a Replacement: Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling Can Help

Summers PHC has served the Broad Ripple community with expert heating services for many years. Our team provides top-quality furnace inspections, maintenance, repairs, and installations. We will ensure your home is comfortable and warm no matter how cold it gets.

Call 317-747-2971 for more information or book a service online. Also, check out our local specials!