The Department of Energy and EPA researched the criteria homeowners should consider when deciding on whether to invest in a new furnace.

Here are some helpful hints:

• Rising gas and electric prices are not the only reason for high bills. Furnaces often lose their efficiency as they age as a result it may run longer to provide the same amount of heat, causing your gas & electric bills to go up.
• The average life expectancy of furnaces in homes today is between 16 and 20 years. If your furnace is close to this age or older, you should begin shopping.
• Increasing furnace repairs. As furnaces age service calls become more frequent and the bills begin to add up, don’t be penny wise and pound foolish!  Another consideration is the older the furnace, the harder it is to get replacement parts.
• Don’t touch that thermostat!If are you always trying to adjust your thermostat to make your home more comfortable that could be a sign that your furnace lacks the ability to properly distribute the air to keep all your rooms comfortable.
• Carbon Monoxide threat. Without sounding alarmist the older the furnace the higher the risk of poisonous carbon monoxide. A flame that is yellow instead of blue could be a sign of an unsafe furnace with possible cracks in the heat exchanger. Check with a certified Rheem Pro Partner technician for other signs if you are concerned.
• Snap, crackle, pop. Old furnaces often start to make some strange noises that go bump in the night! Does your blower turn on & off frequently or does it blow cold air sometimes? If so, this is a sign that your furnace may need to be replaced.
• Got that sneezy or wheezy feeling? Humidity and clean air in your home are essential to family members who suffer from allergies, Old furnaces lack the ability to humidify and clean the air in your home. New electronic filters and humidifiers for furnaces will help you breathe easier.