Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
Your furnace works hard all fall and winter long to keep you and your family from the shivering, teeth-chattering, cold air that would otherwise fill your home. It works even better with annual preventive maintenance by Correct Temp, your local licensed and experienced HVAC resource. And yet, even with the best of care, your home heating system won’t last forever.
So, how would you know if your furnace were in need of repair or, worst case scenario, ready for the recycling center? Here are a few clues to look out for.
Furnace Age
The average furnace lasts 10 to 14 years. As it begins to approach the 10-year mark, it’s common for one to experience performance issues. And while annual preventive maintenance can certainly help delay the inevitable, more frequent and increasingly costly repairs will eventually begin to appear. Older furnaces also won’t deliver the kind of energy efficiency that a new model can. That’s why many homeowners proactively replace their furnace before it raises the white flag. Doing so helps ensure continued home comfort and increased energy savings.
Dry Indoor Air
A dry home environment can lead to a slue of issues including static electricity, dry, itchy skin, and can exacerbate respiratory conditions. While dry air is often caused by humidity control issues, it can also be due to am undersized heating system that runs too frequently, or an oversized unit that doesn’t run long enough. The only solutions is replacing a poorly-sized unit with one that meets your homes’ needs.
Pilot Light Color
On a properly working gas heating system, the burner flame should be a bright blue color. A furnace that’s succumbing to excess wear and tear may display a flickering or yellowish flame – an indication that the gas is not burning completely. It can also mean that your heating system may be producing a higher than normal level of carbon monoxide. And not only presents a furnace problem but also puts your family in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Stop, Look, and Listen
You can tell a lot by a furnace simply checking on it periodically. Inspect the unit for rust or corrosion, listen for unusual or loud noises like buzzing, rattling, or clanking. And have it inspected by an HVAC technician if you suspect signs of distress. Other than normal cycling on and off, a heating system should be seen and not heard.
Is It Time to Buy New?
If you sense something’s amiss any part of your heating system, contact Correct Temp right away. Whether it’s preventive maintenance, repair, or replacement, trust the team of professionals at Correct Temp to get the job done and to your complete satisfaction.
