If you have clicked on this article, you are probably wondering, "How do you know when your furnace needs to be replaced?" Dallas HVAC professionals are here with the answers to your burning questions. Your furnace is a major component of your home's HVAC system. Your old furnace has had your back through all those cold nights and provides convenience and comfort that often goes unnoticed. But like any appliance, regular maintenance isn't always enough to keep it going, and they do have finite lifespans. As your furnace ages, there are some clear warning signs you need a new furnace. Dallas, Texas homeowners, keep reading, and we will show you the telltale signs you need a new furnace and that it's time to replace it.
Sign #1: Age of Your Furnace
One of the signs you need a new furnace, Dallas homeowners, shows that age, unfortunately, isn't just a number. As we have mentioned, this key component of your heating system has a finite lifespan. It is a major contributor to why it may be time to replace the unit. Regular furnace maintenance isn't enough to beat Father Time. As your unit ages, it experiences natural wear and tear on the components, reducing the furnace's ability to turn fuel into heat. From reduced heat transfer efficiency of the heat exchanger to degraded performance of the blowers and motors, the age of your furnace is one of the clear signs you need a new furnace. New furnaces are comparatively much more efficient, with higher Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings and Energy Star ratings. But what is the average furnace lifespan? Typically, 15 to 20 years.
Sign #2: Rising Energy Bills
If you're asking, "How do you know when your furnace needs to be replaced?" Dallas HVAC professionals recommend checking your energy bills. As your furnace is running, all of its parts slowly wear down. As we have explained, the AFUE energy efficiency rating goes down, and the parts of your furnace have to work harder to produce heat throughout your home. This causes your furnace to chug more electricity while it is operating. If you notice that your energy bills are rising with no clear reason, look at your furnace. Choosing to replace your furnace with Aire Serv of Dallas could be a great way to save money on utility bills in the long run, as new furnaces have advanced technology and increased efficiency. High energy bills are one of the less obvious signs you need a new furnace.
Sign #3: Uneven Heating
If the main purpose of your furnace is to heat your home, then uneven heating is one of the main signs you need a new furnace. Dallas homeowners dealing with a furnace causing their homes to be heated unevenly are no doubt frustrated that parts of their homes are freezing cold while others are comfortable. There are a few issues that can cause this to occur. First, the filters or vents could be clogged, restricting airflow to different parts of your home. But this also may be due to thermostat problems, like miscalibration or malfunctioning. It can also be due to mechanical issues, such as short cycling, blower fan issues, and faulty zone control systems. However, if your unit is 15–20 years old, it could also be one of the signs you need a new furnace. Those worn-out parts might be too far gone for furnace repairs.
Sign #4: Unusual Noises
Unusual noises are often one of the signs you need a new furnace. Furnaces make noise during their operation, from little clicks when they start, signaling the igniter, to popping sounds from temperature changes in the ducts. However, if these sounds become frequent or more aggressive, it could answer the question: how do you know when your furnace needs to be replaced? Dallas homeowners hearing loud whistling, rattling, squealing, banging, or booming from their furnace should consider a professional inspection. These are all signs of various issues, from clogged, dirty vents and damaged ducts to loose components, cracked heat exchangers, gas pressure problems, or faulty bearings in the blower motor. When these issues start to compound on one another, it could be a sign you need a new furnace.
Sign #5: Visible Damage
One of the clearer signs that you need a new furnace is real physical damage to your unit. At the bare minimum, you'll need to replace the part showing damage. You'll need professional Dallas HVAC repair if you have cracking or corrosion on the furnace or a cracked heat pump. While repairing these damaged components could extend the life of your furnace, when they start to add up, it could be time for a new furnace installation. Especially when fixing the unit starts encroaching on more than half the cost of a new furnace. Visible damage is usually accompanied by some sort of reduction in efficiency, heating, or air quality. So, if your unit shows signs of damage and one or more of the other listed issues, it is one of the signs you need a new furnace.
Sign #6: Frequent Repairs
If the question is, "How do you know when your furnace needs to be replaced?" Dallas HVAC professionals say you should consider how frequently you have had to repair the furnace. If you are constantly calling to get your older furnace checked and repaired because it is no longer working properly, it's one of the signs that you need a new furnace. When issues keep happening more frequently, the costs add up and can even exceed the furnace replacement costs. When those repair bills add up to more than half the cost of a replacement, it's one of the clear signs you need a new furnace. A new unit will last longer, be more efficient, and provide peace of mind not offered by an aging unit frequently needing repairs. Aire Serv of Dallas can help you weigh your options for repair vs. replacement.
Sign #7: Poor Air Quality
Older systems that run on combustion fuels are at a higher risk of producing poor-quality air. They develop cracks in the heat exchanger, which can pose a significant health risk in the form of carbon monoxide leaks. They can also contaminate the air, as older and malfunctioning furnaces struggle to filter our debris properly. This particle buildup in your ducts and furnaces can harm your home's environment. This causes the furnace to spew pollutants and allergens in all the different areas of your home.
Humidity can also become an issue with an aging unit that isn't functioning properly. It can cause the air to be dry and harsh on your throat and breathing passages. While cleaning furnace filters regularly can help, it could be a sign you need a new furnace. Dallas HVAC professionals will help you pick a new, more efficient furnace that can manage the air quality efficiently and provide you with a healthier living environment.
Sign #8: Difficulty Starting
When dealing with an older furnace, difficulty starting is a clear sign that the unit is approaching the end of its life. It won't be long till it takes its last breath. If your furnace causes a tripped breaker or blown fuse, it can signify that you have serious issues with the electrical system of your furnace, which could be a sign you need a new furnace. Problems with the pilot light or electrical ignition can also indicate serious wear on your components. We already know that cracked heat exchangers can release carbon monoxide, so you don't want to cause extra strain on the unit.
Persistent ignition issues that don't go away with repairs pose health and safety risks and can even cost you big as your unit struggles to heat the space properly. If you're dealing with an older unit, failure to start is one of the clear signs you need a new furnace. Dallas HVAC professionals can inspect your unit and tell you when your unit is nearing the end of its lifespan.
If You Need A Furnace Replaced, Aire Serv of Dallas Is Here With Prompt, Reliable Service. Call Today!
We hope this helpful guide has answered your question, "How do you know when your furnace needs to be replaced?" Dallas HVAC professionals from Aire Serv of Dallas are your go-to choice for heating and air conditioning services. No matter the type of furnace, whether you need repairs to your electric or natural gas furnace, we have you covered with reliable repairs and quality maintenance services that will keep your house warm. As the trusted HVAC professionals of choice in Texas, you can trust us to let you know when you need a new furnace.
We've been the HVAC company of choice for Dallas and the surrounding areas of Addison, Carrolton, Farmers Branch, Garland, Irving, Mesquite, Rowlett, Sachse, and Sunnyvale for years. When caring for your home's heating and cooling system, Aire Serv of Dallas is here to help.
Contact our professionals for quality HVAC service today, and let us help you consider your replacement options for your faulty furnace.
