When Should I Upgrade My Furnace?
Is your furnace sending out signals that it’s time for an upgrade?
- It’s over 15 years old (the average furnace lasts about 18 years, with failures often following a bell curve).
- Your utility bills are climbing.
- It’s getting noisy, with strange bangs and squeals when it starts up.
- You’ve already spent money on recent repairs.
- The burner flame is yellow instead of the usual cool blue.
- Your home felt chilly all winter long.
- The air in your home is uncomfortably dry.
Now comes the big question: Should you wait until next winter to replace it, or is it better to act now? With summer around the corner, it might be tempting to shut the furnace off and address it later.
Spring: The Perfect Season for Furnace Repairs
Replacing your furnace in the spring has two key advantages:
Cost Savings
Nestled between heating and air conditioning seasons, many HVAC contractors are eager to offer deals to keep their crews busy. Distributors, looking to clear space for air conditioners, may also provide discounts on furnaces to move inventory
Convenience
Scheduling installation and maintenance during the off-season gives you greater flexibility in choosing a time that fits your schedule. Plus, you’ll avoid the stress of dealing with a dead or malfunctioning unit when you need it most. Fall and winter cold snaps can arrive unexpectedly, so it’s wise to be prepared in advance.
What about Repairs?
Every decision comes with a cost/benefit analysis. Early in a furnace’s life, repairs are usually the best option, as most parts are still under warranty and labor costs are reasonable. However, once your furnace passes the 10-year mark, parts are no longer covered. With an average lifespan of 18 years, you can start planning for the end. Typically, even at 15 years, we may still recommend repairs for minor issues. But as the unit ages, larger breakdowns tend to tip the scale toward replacement. Regular maintenance can often catch small problems before they turn into major failures.
You should also be on the watch for any signs your furnace is unsafe and needs immediate service. These signs include:
Headaches, Disorientation, or a Burning Feeling in Your Nose or Eyes
These symptoms could indicate carbon monoxide poisoning, often caused by a damaged heat exchanger. Carbon monoxide is highly dangerous, so it’s crucial to protect your home with a carbon monoxide detector and schedule yearly inspections.
Rapidly Increasing Energy Bills
A malfunctioning furnace will consume significantly more energy while producing less heat, which can be a clear sign that something is wrong with the unit.
Multiple Service Calls
Our happiest customers are often the ones we rarely see. As furnaces age, they start to nickel-and-dime their owners, leading to multiple service calls each year just to keep things running. While our talented and dedicated service team is always ready to help, there comes a point where trying to keep a failing furnace alive becomes a losing battle.
Loud, Unusual Noises or Squeals
While many furnaces may start with a slight bump, loud or unusual noises are not normal and should be inspected immediately.
Need an Expert Opinion?
At Baumann & DeGroot, our heating and cooling technicians are always ready to listen and provide expert advice when needed. With over 20 years of experience serving West Michigan, we offer high-quality, one-stop heating and cooling solutions at affordable prices, backed by exceptional customer service.
