Tips & Resources

5 Tell-Tale Signs Your Furnace May Need to be Replaced

Have you been hearing weird noises coming from your furnace or inching the thermostat up to warm your rooms? If so, then your furnace may need to be repaired or replaced. Here are some tell-tale signs that you shouldn’t ignore to save money on monthly energy bills and ongoing repairs.

Signs There is Something Wrong with Your Furnace

To determine whether you need to repair or replace your HVAC system, evaluate the issues causing you concern.

1. Utility bills are on the rise.

Have you noticed a gradual increase in your monthly utility bills? An energy leak, punctured unit, broken vents, etc., are all evidenced by a steady climb in heating costs. At the very least, a tune-up can shed light on the issue, and you can evaluate whether or not you need to repair or replace the furnace.

2. Your furnace is old and outdated.

If you notice a decrease in functionality and your furnace is over 15 years old, it is probably time for a replacement. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, but it will still eventually wear out. It isn’t usually worth making repairs to an outdated system because the return just won’t justify the expenditure.

3. Your home always feels cold.

Uneven heating can indicate a broken system or an improperly sized furnace. If your furnace can’t keep up during cold weather, then something is not correct. If your furnace runs ALL the time, then that is also an issue, but it could be with the thermostat and not the furnace. The best way to determine whether or not it’s a more straightforward fix than a replacement is to call a technician.

4. You notice odd sounds or smells.

Do you smell something burning? Can you hear creaking, whistling, or rattling? Odd sounds or smells could indicate that the furnace is broken. If you ever smell gas, turn off the furnace, ventilate your home, and call someone immediately.

5. Small repairs are adding up.

If you’ve had several minor repairs over the past couple of years, then it may be time to replace the furnace. HVAC systems have a lifespan, and minor issues with an older furnace indicate that the system is wearing out. By the time you pay for several repairs, you might as well pay for a brand new furnace.

How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Furnace

Of course, the best maintenance is always preventative maintenance. Avoid costly repairs and replacements by scheduling routine maintenance at least once a year. You can also inspect and care for your unit yourself and make sure you change the furnace filter often.

Rheem Pro Partners can schedule maintenance or help you sort through the HVAC options available for your home. Contact us today throughout Colorado and Wyoming.