With winter right around the corner, it’s more important than ever that your furnace is in good condition. After all, though Georgia has a moderate climate compared to more northern regions, its winters can be excruciating without a working furnace to keep you comfortable.
At ACS, we provide fast, efficient heating services to the Georgians who need it most. Our furnace repair technicians offer premium installation, repairs, and system replacements for all models of heating equipment. As colder temperatures approach, now is the time to check your furnace’s HVAC health and determine whether a replacement is needed. Below, we’ve compiled a list of reasons to help you determine if it’s time for a furnace replacement.
1. Old Age
If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be time for a replacement. The average furnace lasts 15-30 years in a home. Furnaces experience wear and tear over time, and it’s essential to keep a close eye on them after they hit the 15-year mark. However, signs of aging can vary depending on the fuel your furnace uses.
Electric furnaces typically have a longer life expectancy of 20-30 years, while gas furnaces are projected to last for 15-20 years. Despite their shorter lifespan, gas furnaces are the cheaper, more efficient option. But keep in mind that gas furnaces may require more consistent HVAC maintenance to maintain their performance.
2. High Energy Bills
A spike in your monthly energy bills could mean your furnace needs a replacement. If your heating habits haven’t changed, but your expenses are going up, chances are your furnace has reached its peak. Furnaces surpassing the 15-year mark have a lower fuel efficiency, meaning it costs more fuel, and therefore more money, to heat your home properly.
3. Strange Noises
Strange noises are an indicator of a malfunctioning furnace. If you begin hearing a series of noises such as popping, rattling, screeching, humming, booming, or clicking, it’s time to schedule a furnace replacement. Temperature fluctuations, loose ducts, broken flame sensors, damaged blower motors, and gas emission issues are all common culprits of a noisy furnace. Call your local HVAC specialist immediately if you begin to hear any of these disruptive sounds.
4. Uncomfortable Temperatures
You may need a furnace repair or replacement if your home temperatures fluctuate. Malfunctioning furnaces distribute heat unevenly throughout different rooms and floor levels. These noticeable temperature shifts indicate that your furnace is on its last leg and that it’s time to consult an HVAC professional to restore your home’s comfort.
5. Frequent Breakdowns
Frequent breakdowns are a clear sign that your furnace needs to be replaced. If your furnace needs recurrent servicing outside its regular maintenance routine, it’s not performing as it should. Constantly putting money towards furnace repairs can have long-term financial impacts, not to mention it could also disrupt your peace of mind. Installing a newer model will save you money in the long run and eliminate any stress surrounding constant system breakdowns
6. Discolored Flames
Furnace owners should always pay attention to their system’s flames. A well-operating furnace will produce a clean blue flame when heating your home. However, if the flames appear discolored and emit yellow hues, your furnace could be in trouble. Yellow flames indicate that your furnace is producing carbon monoxide, showing warning signs of potential gas leaks. If you notice yellow flames or gaseous orders emitting from your furnace, schedule a visit with your local HVAC specialist as soon as possible.
At ACS, we are committed to helping you get the most out of your heating and cooling systems. Whether it’s regular maintenance or a new furnace installation, no heating job is too big or too small for our team of certified HVAC technicians. If you’re looking for a furnace replacement or repair, connect with our team today for premium HVAC maintenance in Covington, Milledgeville, and surrounding areas.