It’s safe to say we all know how COLD Minnesota winters are! No one wants their furnace to malfunction in the midst of the season. Paying attention to the warning signs of an aging system is the easiest way to avoid this issue during the winter season. Continue reading to find out five signs it’s time to replace your furnace!
1. Age Of Your System
The age of your system itself is an easy telling point that your furnace may begin to have problems or even need to be replaced. Once a furnace hits the 10-year mark it is ideal to begin searching for a new system for your home. Many homeowners are opting for a newer electric system because their lifespans range from 20-30 years compared to the traditional 15-20 years of a natural gas furnace.
2. Strange Noises
It is typical as your home ages to begin to hear strange noises, especially from your furnace. However, once your system begins to make noises such as rattling, popping, humming, and screeching, you will know without a doubt that something is off. Each noise has an individual issue attributed to it that a technician will be able to diagnose.
3. Inconsistent Temperatures
Fluctuation in temperature throughout your home is a clear indicator that a technician needs to be called to diagnose the problem. Annual maintenance visits will ensure that your system is working properly and efficiently to prevent uneven heat distribution throughout your home. A noticeable and dramatic shift in temperature is typically a sign that your furnace is aging and may need to be replaced. As your system ages, it loses its ability to evenly distribute heat throughout your home and becomes less efficient.
4. Increasing Utility Bills
If you see a steady increase in your utility bills each month, it is typically a sign something isn’t working properly. Although, it is important to consider the age of your system. If your system is around the 10-year mark, you may consider replacing it. Especially if the cost of your next repair is half the amount of a new furnace. However, once your furnace reaches 15 years it struggles to evenly distribute heat throughout your home. As a result, your system works harder and causes a rise in utility bills.
5. Yellow Burner Flame
A properly working and efficient furnace will ALWAYS produce a blue flame. If the flame from your furnace is yellow, it may be a sign that your system is producing carbon monoxide. Yellow flames are also an indication of a potential gas leak that needs to be addressed. If you notice a yellow flame accompanied by an odor, call our team immediately at (651) 237-2698
The lifespan of your system is not limited to these signs; however, being aware of these indicators will help you know when it’s time to replace your system. Let our team give your home THE WORKS when you replace your furnace and call (651) 237-2698 to schedule an appointment with our team today to receive a FREE estimate!