A New Furnace might be needed if you notice these signs

A new furnace is something you might not be thinking about now. The truth is eventually you will need to install a new furnace. There are some signs that can point toward the end of your current furnace. The first sign a new furnace is needed is the age. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, it may be wearing out. The average life expectancy for a gas furnace is 18 years. You should replace a furnace that’s over 15 years old with a new one. These are 15% more energy efficient than older furnaces.

High energy bill

A variety of problems could be causing an increase in energy. But if you have repaired your furnace and ductwork cleaned your energy bill shouldn’t increase dramatically. A sudden increase in your heating bill from the years before may mean that your furnace is on its last legs. As internal parts wear out, your gas and electric bill may go up. The extra money you are paying in gas and electricity could go towards buying a new furnace.

Frequent repairs

Furnaces have the most repairs during the last two years of their lives. It doesn’t take too many repairs before keeping your old furnace running isn’t worth the cost. Add up the cost of repairs to your furnace over the last two years and see if it’s cost efficient to buy a new one.

Strange noises

When you turn on your furnace, does it make any rattling, popping, or banging noises? Older furnaces make these strange noises at the end of their life. Also, notice if the blower is turning on and off frequently. Does it blow cold air? This is another sign that your furnace needs to be replaced soon. Another sign can be if the heat is not distributed properly throughout your home.

The furnace flame

If your furnace’s flame is yellow instead of blue, it could be a sign that your furnace is producing carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, and colorless toxic gas that can be fatal. Other signs that your furnace is producing carbon monoxide could be streaks of soot around furnace. You may notice extra moisture found on windows, walls, or other cold surfaces. Another sign is rusting on flue pipes or other pipe connections.