When Should the Furnace Be Replaced?
Winter is in full swing, meaning homeowners everywhere are using their furnaces daily to keep the chill away. Even in California, where air conditioners are blasting most months of the year, the winters can get chilly, so a working furnace is a necessity.
But as furnaces age, particularly if they haven’t been properly maintained, they can start to malfunction, making the home feel less comfy and costing homeowners more money on repairs and energy bills. So, to avoid suffering through the winter in a cold house, homeowners can keep reading for three signs it might be time for a furnace replacement.
The Unit Is Old or Needs Frequent Repairs
The first sign it may be time to replace the furnace is the age of the unit. Most furnaces last about 15-20 years with proper maintenance. So, if the furnace is getting into that age range, homeowners should consider replacement, especially if it’s having any problems.
If homeowners frequently find themselves calling for furnace repair, they should also consider investing in a new furnace. Instead of shelling out for repairs just to keep the old furnace kicking for another winter, it may make more financial sense to put that money toward a new furnace that won’t need repairing for years to come and that costs less to operate.
The Energy Bills Increase
Another thing about older furnaces is that they aren’t as efficient and can cost more to operate. That means homeowners with aging furnaces may be paying more on heating bills. But other issues can also cause higher utility bills, including a malfunctioning or broken component or neglected maintenance.
So, suppose homeowners notice that their energy bills have gone up unexpectedly. In that case, they should call a professional for a furnace inspection to see if a replacement is necessary or if it needs repair or maintenance to improve its energy efficiency and lower heating costs.
The Home Isn’t Comfortable
Another sign it may be time for a new furnace is if the home is uncomfortable. This could mean uneven heating throughout the home, like some rooms staying cold while others get heated, inadequate heating, such as the whole house not getting warm enough, or humidity problems, like the indoor air being excessively dry or humid.
In some cases, these heating issues can be resolved with furnace repairs. But in other cases, the problem may be more systemic, or the cost of repairs may be so high that a replacement is the better option. Ultimately, if the home isn’t comfortable, homeowners should have an HVAC contractor diagnose the issue. They can then recommend the most cost-effective solution for the household’s needs, whether replacement, repair, or furnace maintenance.
About Lambert Heating and Air Conditioning
Lambert Heating and Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving Downey, CA, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, financing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for furnace installation and replacement in Downey, CA.