Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Old Furnace

When it comes to home renovation, most people overlook furnace replacement. After all, people don’t notice unless it’s causing an issue. However, if not maintained or replaced, the condition of your furnace could decrease your indoor air quality, produce hazardous gases and result in a number of other issues.

In this article, we talk about six signs it’s time to replace your furnace. You’ll learn about an increase in heating bills, strange noises, frequent repairs, different color flames, and temperature fluctuations.

Your Furnace Is Between 15 – 30 Years Old

The average lifespan of a furnace is between 15 – 20 years. However, it’s always better to replace your furnace early if it’s showing signs of wear and tear. The main problem with older furnaces is they decrease the air quality of your home.

Eventually, you’re going to notice dust and dirt being blown through the vents. This can pose an issue for people with allergies, asthma, and respiratory problems. Plus, who wants to breathe in dust, right?

Your Heating Bill Has Increased

When people see their heating bill rise unexpectedly, they often overlook the actual cause of the issue – their furnace. Sometimes, furnaces that are older or in poor condition can switch to the auxiliary system when they shouldn’t, causing your heating bill to rise.

Alternatively, it could be a dusty filter causing the problem. Dusty filters restrict airflow, making everything work harder while costing you more money in the process.

Your Furnace Makes Strange Noises

Strange noises coming from your furnace could be caused by many issues – some more dangerous than others. The most common noise to hear is a rattling sound. This could be a loose screw, causing parts to wear prematurely, or something more serious, like a damaged heat exchanger.

Damaged heat exchangers are no joke and could leak carbon dioxide into your home.

Your Furnace Needs to Be Repaired Frequently

It’s not uncommon for your furnace to need occasional repairs and maintenance, but we often get asked, “when should you replace a furnace?”

Furnace repairs can be costly, and if your furnace needs fixing multiple times per year, it’s probably time to start thinking about getting a new one. After all, there’s no point in spending money on repairs to an old worn-out furnace when that money can instead be spent on a replacement.

Your Furnace Flames Are Yellow Instead of Blue

A yellow furnace flame is a sure sign you have a combustion problem. Combustion problems shouldn’t be taken lightly, as they mean your furnace is not mixing enough gas and oxygen. When this happens, it can cause increased carbon monoxide production and significant gas leaks, both of which are dangerous.

If you see a yellow flame, turn off your furnace and get in touch with an HVAC company that offers great service near you.

Temperature Fluctuations Throughout the House

While a dirty filter could be causing temperature fluctuations in your home, it may also be because of leaks, cracks, or poor installation of your furnace. We recommend talking to a professional who can take a look and diagnose the problem.

How Much Does a Furnace Replacement Cost?

The price of a new furnace varies from $700 – $6000, depending on whether it’s electric, gas, or oil. However, you also have to consider installation costs, which are based on several variables and can range from $1000 – $6000.

Get In Touch

Have you noticed any of these issues in your furnace and are thinking about getting it replaced? At RPM Home Services, you can get a free estimate by calling +1- 888-776-4629 or getting in touch online. We’re locally owned and operated and treat our customers like family, providing the same great service we’d expect ourselves.