Winter is on the horizon, which means it’s a perfect time to evaluate the health of your furnace. Yes, it’s still warm-ish here in North Carolina, but the temperatures change quickly.
A system failure in the middle of winter is the last thing you want for your family. Instead, get ahead of the season. If you have noticed any of the following signs, call us today to diagnose your furnace. We will let you know if it’s time for some repairs or a full replacement. We realize no one wants to replace an entire furnace. However, here are some warning signs that indicate it might be time:
- Wear – Inspect your unit for any signs of an old furnace, such as rust, fractures, or corrosion. These are all concerns and might be a sign that it’s time for a new unit.
- Noises – Furnaces don’t operate silently, but unusual noises could be a sign of bad news. If you begin to hear distinct and out of character grinding or screeching, call to have your unit inspected.
- Higher Bills – Has your heating cost escalated since last season’s use? Furnace inefficiency could be a tale-tell sign that your unit is on its cusp whether that be for a malfunction or it simply being past its prime.
A Matter of Time
On average, furnaces live just past 20 years, but it depends on how well you maintain the unit. Has your furnace seen a professional serviceman recently? Nonetheless, if your furnace is inching toward 20, you might want to find a replacement rather than wait for it to go kaput at the most inconvenient time (probably on the coldest day).
Increased Repairs
If you begin to notice a steady trend of costly repairs, your furnace is making it apparent that it’s on the cusp of its lifespan, needing a replacement sooner rather than later. Of course, you will consider paying to have yours fixed. However, is it worth it? For repairs on the less costly side of the spectrum, it is worth debating. However, as the unit ages, consider whether a newer, more efficient one would save you money in the long run.
Inadequate Cycling
A furnace operates by striving to reach the target temperature set by the thermostat, cycling on and off during standard operation. If you notice your furnace switching cycles more often than normal or not switching enough, you should take the initiative to get it inspected, before winter really arrives.
Financing
People often worry about the cost of a new furnace — which we understand! Read more about our financing options so you can stay warm this winter.
