Most Recent: December 31, 1969
A furnace is part of your home’s heating system but it has a lifespan. Over time, wear and tear will cause your furnace to become less efficient or even break down. Knowing the signs it’s time to invest in a new furnace installation in St. Paul, MN, will save you from costly repairs and the discomfort of a surprise breakdown in the middle of winter. This guide will help you know when to upgrade and how to choose the right furnace for your home. 1. Repairs are Becoming the New NormIf you experience frequent furnace repairs, it could be a sign it’s nearing the end of its life. While occasional repairs are part of furnace maintenance, constant breakdowns mean parts are wearing out and continuing to repair the system will cost more in the long run than replacing it. 2. Higher Energy BillsAnother sign it might be time for a furnace replacement is a jump in your energy bills. As furnaces age, they become less efficient and use more energy to heat your home. If your heating bills are higher than they should be and you’re maintaining your furnace regularly, it could be due to a failing furnace that needs to be replaced. 3. Uneven Heating in Your HomeIf some rooms in your house are too hot and others too cold your furnace might be having trouble distributing heat. This could be due to issues like a faulty blower fan, blocked ducts or damaged parts. A new furnace will restore even heating so all rooms in your home are comfortable during the cold months. 4. Strange Noises Coming from the Furnace A furnace that makes unusual noises like banging, clanging or squealing is a sign something is wrong. These noises could be due to the motor, fan or other internal parts. While some sounds can be fixed with repairs, persistent or getting worse noises mean your furnace is beyond repair and needs to be replaced. 5. Age of the FurnaceThe age of your furnace is a big factor in its efficiency and reliability. Most furnaces last between 15 to 20 years depending on the type and maintenance it has received. If your furnace is nearing or has reached its lifespan, you need to consider a new installation. Newer models are more energy efficient and come with modern features that can improve your home’s comfort. 6. Yellow or Flickering Pilot LightThis indicates a problem with the gas burner or combustion process. A pilot light should be blue, which means proper combustion. If it’s yellow or flickering, it could mean a dirty burner, gas pressure issues or even a carbon monoxide leak. In that case, replacing the furnace is the safest and most affordable solution. 7. Carbon Monoxide Detection A faulty furnace can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly if it accumulates in your home. If your carbon monoxide detector is going off, you need to act fast. Replacing the furnace is crucial as this is not something that can be repaired. 8. Uncomfortable Air QualityIf you notice the air quality in your home is getting worse, it could be due to a furnace not working properly. Older furnaces don’t have the latest air filtration technology so indoor air quality suffers. A new furnace with advanced filtration systems will keep your air clean and healthy. Knowing when to replace your furnace is key to a comfortable and safe home. Be aware of these signs and make an informed decision to save you from costly repairs and keep your home warm during the cold months. Be proactive and consult a professional heating service to check your furnace and explore your options for a new one that fits your needs. If you have noticed any of these signs, don’t wait until your furnace completely fails. Contact a trusted heating professional from Professional Mechanical Services at (612) 655-9101 to schedule an inspection and find out if it’s time to upgrade your system. FAQs 1. How long should a furnace last before it needs to be replaced? 15 to 20 years is the average lifespan of a furnace depending on the brand, maintenance and conditions. After that, it may become less efficient and need more repairs so it’s a good time to consider a replacement. 2. Do I need to replace the furnace when it starts to fail? Not necessarily. Minor issues like dirty filters or small repairs can be fixed without replacing the whole system. But if the furnace is old and needs frequent repairs, replacing it may be more affordable in the long run.