Winter is a busy season for us as we take a high number of calls from people whose furnaces have broken down. Many times, the problem is caused by a lack of regular furnace service and maintenance. To keep your furnace running well and warming your home, it’s important to have maintenance performed regularly. After maintenance, there are some symptoms you can be on the lookout for that may reveal that it’s time to have your furnace serviced or replaced before a breakdown leaves you in the cold.
Furnace Age
The anticipated lifespan of furnaces can vary on a variety of factors, but it’s not a bad idea to start furnace shopping now if your furnace is 15 years or older. It’s in your best interest to have time to find the perfect furnace for your home instead of having to replace your furnace in an emergency situation.
Increased Gas or Electric Bills
If your utility bills are rising, but you haven’t increased usage, it’s most likely time for a furnace service appointment or maybe a replacement. As they age, furnaces lose efficiency. This happens more quickly to furnaces that haven’t been maintained properly. While you may think a new furnace will cost a lot, think of the money you’ll save in the long run on your utility bills.
More Frequent Furnace Repairs
Furnaces break down more often during the last two years of their lifespan. If you are feeling like you’re doing repair after repair, start keeping track of how much you’re spending. Chances are a new system may be more cost effective.
Strange Noises
Is your furnace making strange noises? Many times, older furnaces start making strange noises when a replacement is needed. Also, notice if your furnace is cycling on and off repeatedly or blowing cold air. These are undoubtedly symptoms that it’s time to shop for a replacement.
A Dry or Dusty Home
If your home starts to feel drier or family members start struggling with allergy symptoms, an older furnace could be to blame. It may not filter air well, nor does it humidify the air. Other signs that your furnace isn’t filtering or humidifying air are splitting woodwork and static shocks.
If any of this sounds familiar, you may want to start shopping for a new furnace. Call Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc at 602-832-7808 and we can help you find the ideal system for your home.