There are few things to take into consideration when thinking about your furnace and when or how soon you will need to replace it.
How old is your Furnace?
The average life expectancy of a furnace is 15-20 years. The closer you get to this age range the more attention you should pay to the warning signs. You should start shopping for a replacement before you have an emergency so that you can make a calm and informed decision. Having a pilot light on your furnace is a good indicator that your furnace is at least 20 years old.
Your Gas and Electric Bills
If your bills seem to be steadily climbing it could be related to rising costs in the world but it may also be in association with an old furnace. Furnaces lose efficiency as they age.
Frequency of Furnace Repairs
Like a car, furnaces require regular maintenance, and also like a car, the older they get the more work they need. Check the frequency of repairs. If you are repairing and replacing parts more than every 1-2 years, it is probably time to start looking for a new furnace.
Are You Comfortable?
Is the heat in your house being distributed evenly and following the settings on your thermostat. As your furnace ages, it loses the ability to distribute heat evenly.
What Kind of Noises Does it Make?
All furnaces make some noises but older furnaces start to make more and more and stranger and stranger noise, Noises to listen for are grinding, popping, rattling, or banging noises, or is the blower running constantly.
Is Your Home Excessively Dry or Dusty?
If the air in your house begins to feel musty or stale. You may experience more extreme allergies or cold symptoms. Do you have a dry throat and skin? Are you getting excessive dust collection on your furniture? All of these are indicative of an old furnace lacking the ability to moisturize and clean the air in your home.
Call Air Doctorx Heating & Air Conditioning today at (302) 492-1333 today if you have any questions about the life and times of your furnace. You can request service online and we will be happy to answer any questions about your furnace repair, service, or new furnace installation.
