When Should You Upgrade Your Furnace?

There are many things to contemplate when it comes to taking care of your home. 

  • Should I get a home alarm system? 
  • What types of bulbs meet my lighting needs but are going to be energy efficient? 
  • Should I install carpeting or tile? 

And if that’s not enough, include one more thing on the list: When should I replace my heating system? 

Your heater shouldn’t require continuous attention, but it shouldn’t be taken for granted, either. Ignoring your system could result in indoor air that is loaded with dust or allergens (or worse!), or even an inefficient heating unit that is wasting energy and money with every utility bill. 

But how should I know if it’s time to replace my heating system? 

The following warning signs can help you determine if you just need a quick service or if it’s time to replace your current heating system. 

1. Frequent Repair Costs 

It is common for a heating unit to eventually need a part replacement or a little TLC once a year to make sure everything is running correctly, but a well-maintained heating unit should work without much repairing along the way. A few signs that your system may be in need of replacing are below: 

  • Calling the service technician repeatedly for the same problem; 
  • Needing numerous visits during the same heating season; 
  • Constantly writing checks simply to keep your house comfortably warm. 

A general rule to remember: if yearly repair costs reach 50 percent of the present value of the heating system, it’s likely time to replace your furnace. 

2. Energy Efficiency 

Are your utility bills are a little more than you remember them being? That may be a sign that some part of your heating system is weakening. Most companies can give you a residential energy audit which can point to easily remedied inefficiencies like weather-stripping around your doors and windows or attic insulation. It may also be the first step in deciding if your heating unit is giving up. Older heating units can be very inefficient, while newer systems are much more efficient at heating your home. Also, upgrading to a high-efficiency unit could mean tax credits or utility rebates and incentives to help you recoup the cost of your new system. 

3. Old Age 

Heating units were never designed to last until the end of time. Advanced, more efficient units are coming out all the time. But how long should your heating system last? The magic number for a furnace or boiler is 15 years. But keep in mind many old furnaces operate at an efficiency of just 65 percent or poorer! A replacement that’s been qualified with the Energy Star rating can be up to 30% more efficient, and that’s a difference you’ll notice in your home and your bank account. 

4. Excessive Noise 

If you need to raise your voice to talk because your unit is abnormally loud, that could be a sign that your duct system is undersized and too much air is being pushed through too small an opening. 

Other noises like squealing, jolting, bumping, or banging could be signs of a mechanical matter. It could be as straightforward as a worn belt, but it may mean an internal component of your unit has loosened or come completely separated. 

Today’s latest products function more quietly than ever. Often you’ll have to really pay attention to even know if they’re running. If noise pollution is a concern for you, that may be reason enough to upgrade to better equipment. 

5. Temperature and Comfort Issues 

If you are having to constantly turn up the furnace to keep things in the house comfortable, that should be a major sign that it’s time to re-evaluate your furnace. There are several factors that could cause this issue – it may be rectified with a new thermostat that allows you more control – so before you assume that you’re in for a whole new heating unit, give some consideration to your thermostat. 

6. Humidity Issues 

In the winter, low humidity makes the air inside your home feel colder than it is, often tricking you into hiking up the heat. Common issues when the humidity is too low are dry air, sinusitis, and chapped skin. Improper humidity can even negatively impact wooden floors and furniture. Today’s best heating equipment helps to keep this important balance right where it should be, adding or removing moisture before it ever enters the HVAC unit. 

7. Air Quality Issues 

Many issues that don’t directly relate to temperature can be improved significantly with an expertly designed and properly installed HVAC system. If you are experiencing issues with household odors, airborne allergens, such as pollen and pet dander, mold, ozone, and even plain old dust, consulting an expert heating system contractor can start you on the road to resolving them. 

So you do all your investigating and decide you do need a new furnace, or you want to upgrade your furnace to high-efficiency technology, replace your home’s ductwork, or do a total rebuild of the entire system, call Stevenson Service Experts today for a free, no-obligation Home Comfort Analysis.