Signs It’s Time for a New Furnace
Not sure if it’s time to for a new furnace? A failing heating system can impact your comfort, safety, and energy costs, but it’s not always easy to tell when a replacement is necessary. If your furnace has been acting up or struggling to keep your home warm, it’s worth considering whether it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Here’s what to look for when considering a new furnace.
- 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.
What about Repairs instead of a Replacement?
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.
Signs You Might Need a New Furnace Immediately
It’s important to stay alert for signs that your furnace may be unsafe and in need of immediate attention. A malfunctioning furnace can pose serious risks to your home and family, so recognizing the warning signs early is key. If you notice anything unusual, don’t ignore it—here are some common red flags that signal it’s time to call in a professional:
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.
When In Doubt, Call a Professional
When it comes to your home’s comfort and safety, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure whether your furnace needs repairs or a full replacement, calling a professional is the best step you can take. At Baumann & DeGroot, we’re here to provide expert advice and answer your questions—whether they’re big, small, or somewhere in between. Our team is dedicated to helping you make informed decisions, so you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home with total peace of mind. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help!
Considering a new furnace? Reach out today at (616)396-4328 or schedule online.