4 Warning Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement

4 Red Flags That Indicate It’s Time for a Furnace Replacement

Facing a problem before it becomes an emergency is much easier and usually much cheaper than waiting until an emergency arises. This is certainly true regarding furnace replacement.

HVAC systems are composed of components that heat and cool a home (along with providing fresh, clean air and removing humidity). Both hot and cold extreme temperatures put the most stress on HVAC performance, so a breakdown or failure generally happens when the system is needed the most. This also creates stress of a different nature on families and HVAC professionals—the need for rapid repair or replacement under duress. A few observations can help a homeowner avoid HVAC emergencies.

1 Age Investigation

Do you know how old your HVAC system is? If you were not the homeowner who installed the system, find the serial number plate. Do an internet search of the make and serial number to determine the age of the system.

The average HVAC system will function properly for 15 to 20 years; regular maintenance can add 5 years to the useful life. If your system is approaching or has passed this age, begin to monitor performance and make plans to replace the system. Pay attention to maintenance reports and repair schedules. Plan a furnace replacement and do not wait too long.

2 Visual Inspections

Observation by homeowners can often uncover potential major problems. Rust anywhere on the system indicates age. Rust or cracks on the burner assembly of a furnace need to be addressed immediately. Discoloration and loose connections on any part of the furnace or air conditioning components can be a precursor to problems in the immediate future.

The flame of a natural gas or propane-powered furnace should burn with a blue flame. If you observe a yellow flame, it indicates incomplete combustion and the production of excessive carbon monoxide rather than carbon dioxide. The other product being produced in excess is soot, carbon powder, that will begin to coat the burner assembly and heat exchanger.

Excessive dirt inside the home is also an indication that the system is struggling. If you continue to find excessive dust near the supply or return vents after changing the air filter, this indicates loose duct connections somewhere in the ductwork. Vacuuming, mopping, and dusting will also result in collecting more dust than normal.

3 Listen for Differences

Normally, the sounds of the HVAC system blend into the background noise of the household. When heating or cooling cycles become noticeably louder or include unusual sounds, it is more than just annoying. Thumping, grinding, or screeching sounds are not normal and need to be addressed by an HVAC professional. When normal sounds—the hum of electricity or the “whoosh” of moving air—are significantly louder than normal, this should prompt a call to an HVAC professional. Additional noises or increased volume generally indicate trouble in the near future that can lead to a Furnace Replacement.

4 Check the Utility/Repair Bills

An aging system will inevitably lose efficiency; there are several reasons for this phenomenon, but it happens to the best of systems. This might be hard to discern since the price of energy is on the rise. The best indication is to check the number of kilowatt hours needed during the heating/cooling seasons from year to year. A new system may be 50% more efficient than an old system.

If your system requires frequent small repairs, add the repair costs together to get a clearer picture of the system’s health.

Investigate the cost of the equipment and installation of a new HVAC system; professionals can give a quote or ballpark figure. Compare this figure to potential component repair or furnace replacement to determine whether it is more cost-effective to replace a system rather than repair it.

The Furnace Replacement Experts You Can Trust

With decades of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, All Cool AC & Heating will ensure your furnace operates efficiently and safely, no matter the season. If repair is no longer an option our furnace replacement technicians will design a furnace system to meet the needs of your home. Contact us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.