Most homeowners give little thought to their home’s furnace. When the weather gets uncomfortably cold, you slide a little switch or push a button, and your furnace jumps to life. And even if you are careful about annual maintenance and changing the furnace filter, there will come a day when your current unit needs to be replaced. But the secret is knowing when that time is coming. Being able to prepare for the budgetary aspect of a furnace replacement is essential. And there is nothing worse than waking up to a cold house when your furnace does fail and leaves you literally freezing in your own home. Some of the hints to be on the lookout for include:

Increasing Utility Bills

As your furnace ages, it becomes less energy efficient. So when you begin to notice that your bill is creeping just a little higher each month, it is time to check into a replacement. Of course, you will want to compare your energy rates. But unless they have changed significantly, an increase in your utility bill usually points to a decrease in your furnace’s capability.

Old Age Gets Us All

With proper care, cleaning, and service, the average furnace has a life expectancy of between 15 and 20 years. Even if you have not begun to notice a lapse in the unit’s function, a 20-year-old furnace is two decades behind the times in technology and efficiency. You should be thankful for the long and reliable service. But also ready to check out the latest EnergyStar rated products that offer the best energy efficiency on the market.

An Excessive Amount Of Dust

If you find that you are constantly dusting and cleaning your home, the issue could be your aged furnace. An inspection by an HVAC professional will determine if there are leaks in the filtration or if the unit is simply full of dust and dirt. In some cases, the unit can be cleaned for a short-term solution. But if you are nearing the 20-year mark on your furnace, know that the end is near. It is time to start planning on a replacement unit before you are left out in the cold.

Uneven Heating

Many maladies can cause uneven heating throughout your home. Issues with the thermostat, blower, or heating element can all be to blame. But some issues could be man-made. If you have begun closing vents in some doors or closing doors to increase your comfort level, you might be causing part of your heating problem. Closing vents creates excess pressure in the ducts and adds stress to the equipment. But the underlying issue of not enough heat in your home is a good indication that your furnace is no longer doing its job. A call to your HVAC pro is the best way to sort out any issues.

Strange Noises

Your HVAC system will make a few noticeable sounds when it is operating. But if you are noticing odd sounds like banging or rattling, it is time to call in the pros. These noises are due to a loose piece of sheet metal or other minor problems in some cases. But if left unrepaired, they are sure to create more significant damage. And in the case of older furnaces, these noises could be the forewarning known as death rattles.

When you begin to notice these warning signs, call 806-583-3558. The team of pros at Action Air Plumbing and Septic will evaluate your HVAC equipment and provide you with insight on the condition and life expectancy of your current equipment.

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