Come winter and a reliable furnace will undoubtedly be your home’s most crucial lifeline to stay warm and cozy. However, like any other appliance that you own, furnaces too come with limited lifespans. And you surely don’t want to discover that your furnace is at the end or well past its lifespan, right in the middle of the cold season. So, here are some key indicators that will help you determine whether you need a furnace replacement or a simple furnace maintenance service.
7 Factors to know if it’s the right time to get a new furnace
1. The age of your furnace
A well-maintained furnace will typically comfort you with its performance for around 15 to 20 years. However, if your furnace is nearing this age range or exceeding it, you may want to start thinking about a replacement right away. A replacement will introduce you to furnace models that are designed to be more energy-efficient, which will bring you significant savings in energy bills.
2. Frequent and expensive repairs
If you have been frequently calling your local furnace repair services company and shelling out substantial amounts on fixing your furnace, a replacement will prove to be a more economical decision. As a rule, it’s advisable to invest your money on a new furnace if your repair costs are 50% or more of the furnace replacement costs. A new furnace will also free you from the annoyance of frequent breakdowns.
3. Increasing energy bills
A steady rise in your energy bills despite your overall energy usage staying constant, is another sign that your furnace is no longer as efficient as it used to be. Furnaces drop in their energy efficiency as they age and therefore, end up requiring more fuel or power to generate the same amount of heat. Switching to a newer, more efficient model in such a situation will result in significant energy savings.
4. Uneven heating
If the heating comfort generated by your furnace varies in consistency, it’s a sign that your furnace is slowly failing. So, if some rooms turn out too warm, while others remain chilly, your furnace is struggling to distribute heat effectively. Upgrading to a new furnace will provide your home better and more consistent heating during the winter months.
5. Unwanted noises or smells
While old generation furnaces are likely to make some sounds while operating, noises such as banging, rattling, or screeching are indicators of potential issues. Also, if you notice smells such as a burning odor, it could point to serious internal issues with your furnace. If regular furnace maintenance and repair fails to resolve these issues, you need to consider investing in a new furnace.
7. A yellow or flickering flame
The color of your burner flame is a reliable indicator of your furnace’s overall condition. A steady blue flame indicates proper combustion but a yellow or flickering flame signifies a carbon monoxide leak, which is extremely dangerous. If you notice this, do not delay in contacting a professional furnace repair service immediately for inspection and furnace replacement.
Boyle Energy: A reliable furnace repair services company in Philadelphia
If you’re facing issues with your furnace or are considering a replacement, look no further than Boyle Energy. As a trusted furnace repair services establishment in Philadelphia, we come with over 80 years of experience in providing top-notch furnace maintenance, repairs, and installation services to our surrounding communities. Contact our experts at (610)-347-5197 to experience our professional approach to all your home furnace repair and maintenance needs.
Patrick Boyle brings over three decades of expertise to Boyle Energy, carrying forward a family legacy that began with his grandfather, Joseph Boyle Sr., the company’s founder. With extensive technical proficiency, Patrick holds advanced certifications in both oil and HVAC systems, ensuring the highest standards of service and performance. Additionally, he is recognized as an NPGA-certified propane service professional, underscoring his commitment to safety and industry best practices. Under his leadership, Boyle Energy continues to deliver reliable and efficient energy solutions, grounded in generations of trust and innovation.
