Did you know that some indoor heating systems can emit carbon monoxide? This is particularly common for a gas heating system, but any system can experience problems that affect indoor air quality, which is why it’s important to care for your system whenever problems arise.
But what other problems can occur? How can you know when it’s time to replace your old furnace? What can you do when that time comes?
We’re here to help you answer those questions and more. Read on to learn seven of the biggest signs that it’s time for a new heating system.
1. Poor Air Quality
We’ve covered this a bit already, and we all know what happens if you’re exposed to carbon monoxide, but it isn’t always that extreme. Sometimes, the mark of poor indoor air quality is as simple as allergies getting worse when you’re inside or constantly feeling sick.
You should start with replacing the filter if you notice this happening, but if that doesn’t work, then you’ll need to call in a professional. Sometimes it’s a simple fix, and other times you’ll need an entirely new unit.
2. Your Energy Bill Is Increasing
As your HVAC system ages, it’s easy for it to lose its efficiency. While monthly fluctuations are to be expected for your energy bills, it’s important to keep an eye on how they compare to last year’s. If your bill is unusually high for what feels like no reason, it’s time to call in a professional.
The same goes for furnaces. As the equipment gets older, it isn’t going to heat your home as efficiently, and it’s going to take longer. With all the extra work your system is doing comes a lot of money flowing out the door.
New units are going to be more energy-efficient, and you’re likely to notice immediate results on next month’s bills once you switch.
3. Uneven Heating
If your home has started feeling uncomfortable, or like some spots are warmer than others, then you might want to look into the cause. Older units might have a difficult time heating evenly, causing different rooms to be different temperatures.
You might even find that some spots in the same rooms are at different temperatures. When you switch out parts of your furnace or the entire unit, you’re going to notice a difference in the consistency around your space.
4. Frequent Repairs
If you’re having to make frequent repairs to your heating system, it’s eventually going to cost more than it would’ve to simply replace the unit. While you should look into furnace prices in Canada before you make any major investments, it’s something to look into.
You’ll probably spend more upfront to replace your unit, but it’s an investment that pays for itself in the long run. Between not needing repairs and the money you’re likely to save on your energy bills each month, you’re going to thank yourself for the replacement in the long run.
5. Dry Air in Your Home
This might seem like something that isn’t a big deal, but the opposite is actually true. If you notice a sudden decrease in humidity or the presence of dry air, that could point to you needing a new heating system.
If the problem is left unaddressed, it can eventually lead to dry or flaky skin, chapped lips, frequent coughing or a sore throat, and even illness. Your mucus membranes begin to dry out and you’re left with lower immunity. That isn’t it, though.
Dry air can also have a negative impact on your house. Everything from splitting wooden floorboards or cracking wood furniture to chipping paint and splitting wallpaper can happen. It’s also bad news for your electronics.
Keeping the humidity balanced in your home is important since dry air can lead to static electricity, which is bad news for electronics. It can lead to everything from a metal melt to oxide failure, both of which can cause devices to simply stop working.
If you notice dry air in your space, it’s important to have the problem as soon as possible. A trained technician is going to be able to help you diagnose the issue and determine whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement.
6. Strange Noises
This one is usually easy to notice, especially if the noises your heater is making are particularly loud. It’s normal to hear some knocking as your furnace turns on — especially at the beginning of the cold months — because the pipes are adjusting. The metal expands and contracts under heat, so this is to be expected.
However, if you’re noticing noises like scraping and screeching, or even clunking and banging, it’s likely that you have a problem with a component in your furnace. It’s best to call in a professional if you notice this.
The problem could be anything from an object being stuck in the blades to a cracked belt somewhere in the system. A rattling could indicate a motor bearing going out, and multiple noises at once could mean nothing but trouble. It’s important to have these issues addressed as soon as possible, especially if you suspect that you need a new heating system.
7. How Old Is Your Current System?
Finally, is your current system older than 10? If this is the case, then it might be time to upgrade no matter what. If you’re not noticing any problems, that’s great, but it might still be a good idea to replace the unit before things do go wrong.
If you wait until things go wrong, it might end up costing more — especially if the problems cause damage to other parts of your home. It’s best to schedule an appointment for yearly maintenance with an experienced HVAC technician, and if they notice things going wrong with your heater they’ll be able to make recommendations for fixing it.
They’ll also be able to tell you when it’s time for a new unit.
What Does Regular Maintenance Involve?
Whether you have a new heating system or not, you should schedule yearly maintenance. This is going to help your system last longer, and it’s going to be able to help you keep the air in your home clean, and the temperature comfortable for many years to come.
It’s best to have maintenance performed before the winter months arrive, either at the end of summer or during the fall. Doing this is going to ensure you don’t run into any problems before cooler temperatures set in, and it’s also going to ensure your system is ready for whatever might be thrown its way.
What to Expect
When a technician comes out to clean your unit, there are a few things you can expect. They’re going to start by checking all of the system’s essential components, and they’re going to adjust, clean, test, and/or lubricate where it needs to be done. Here are a few other specific tasks they might perform:
- Inspecting vents and air intake grills, removing blockages
- Checking the heat exchanger for signs of damage or corruption
- Checking the blower motor and testing amp draw
- Checking burner and/or flame sensor
- Examining belts for cracks or damage
- Inspecting the thermostat and calibrating if necessary
- Checking the filter, cleaning, and replacing it
- Checking and testing safety controls
If you have an oil or gas furnace, there are going to be a few additional steps involved:
- Examining fuel lines
- Inspecting the thermocouple
- Checking and testing gas pressure
They’ll also be able to address any problems you’ve been having or help you answer any questions you might have.
Benefits of Regular Maintenance or Replacement
While maintenance might seem like an obvious thing to keep up with, it might not be something you would’ve originally thought of. However, there are plenty of benefits that come with it.
Not only are you going to save money, but you might be taking advantage of something that’s covered by your warranty. A lot of furnace warranties include regular maintenance with them, so having your furnace serviced for free each year is something you should be doing anyway.
You’re also going to minimize your risk of breakdowns and help extend the lifespan of your heating system.
Do You Need a New Heating System?
Now that we’ve gone over a few of the biggest signs, you might’ve realized you need a new heating system. If you’re unsure, however, then you should call in a professional. Not only will they be able to diagnose problems with your old furnace, but they’ll be able to help you replace it should you need a new one.
Remember, trusting a professional is going to help you get it done the first time around, instead of waiting for things to go awry.
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