We find that winter is a busy season for us as we take a high number of calls from people whose furnaces have stopped working properly. Many times, the problem can be connected to a lack of regular furnace service and maintenance. To keep your furnace running well and warming your home, it’s important to have maintenance performed regularly. After maintenance, there are some symptoms you can be on the lookout for that may reveal that it’s time to have your furnace serviced or replaced before a breakdown leaves you in the cold.
Furnace Age
The expected lifespan of furnaces can vary on a variety of factors, but it’s a good idea to start furnace shopping now if your furnace is 15 years or older. It’s in your best interest to have time to find the best furnace for your home instead of having to replace your furnace in an emergency situation.
Increased Gas or Electric Bills
If your utility bills are going up, but you haven’t increased usage, it’s probably time for a furnace service appointment or even a replacement. As they age, furnaces become less efficient. This happens more quickly to furnaces that haven’t been taken care of. While you may think a new furnace will cost a lot, think of the money you’ll save in the long run on your utility bills.
More Frequent Furnace Repairs
Furnaces break down more frequently during the last two years of their lifespan. If you are feeling like you’re doing repair after repair, start watching how much you’re spending. It’s likely that a new system may be more cost effective.
Strange Noises
Is your furnace making unusual noises? Often times, older furnaces start making strange noises when a replacement is needed. Also, notice if your furnace is cycling on and off frequently or blowing cold air. These are undoubtedly symptoms that it’s time to shop for a replacement.
A Dry or Dusty Home
If your home starts to feel drier or family members start showing allergy symptoms, an older furnace could be to blame. It may not filter air as well as it needs to, nor does it humidify the air. Other signs that your furnace isn’t filtering or humidifying air are splitting woodwork and static shocks.
If any of this sounds familiar, you may want to think about shopping for a new furnace. Call Lycoming Heating Company at 570-326-4450 and we can help you find the perfect system for your home.