In our companion post this week, we talked about the dangers of a cracked heat exchanger, and how older furnace systems are more at risk of this problem. This can be indication enough that it’s time for a furnace upgrade, and when you’re looking for a company to do the job, we are the team to call for exceptional Denver heating services.
In the meantime, however, we do want to give you a little more information so you can make an educated decision on whether you only need some repair work done on your furnace, or if a replacement really is your best option.
The good news is, you don’t have to make this decision on your own. Our service technicians are happy to help you make an informed decision, and can absolutely let you know when your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Since we’ve already mentioned it above, the first factor we’re going to look at is the age of your furnace. The average natural gas-powered furnace will typically last about 10-15 years (electric models can usually go longer, but keep in mind that they cost more to run from month to month). If your furnace is as old as this or older, then we really recommend having a professional inspection done to ensure its not suffering from irreversible effects of aging (such as cracked heat exchangers).
Another thing you’ll want to look at is repair frequency. Typically speaking, a well-maintained furnace shouldn’t need more than one repair a year or so. If you find yourself calling for multiple repair visits throughout a single year, or if the next repair is going to cost at least half of what the furnace is worth, then it can certainly be time to consider a replacement system.
Old age in a furnace can also cause a decline in energy efficiency. Compare your utility bills from this year to those from previous years. If the cost is rising despite comparable use of your furnace, then we really have to recommend you have a new furnace put in.
How loud is your furnace? As a homeowner, you likely know the average sounds that your furnace system makes when it is in operation. If it starts making significant noise and/or you hear unfamiliar sounds coming from it, it can indicate that something is amiss, such as loose components or a breaking down system. Anything that resembles a rattle, clang, or hum that you’ve never heard before is worth a call to our pros. It might be an easy repair, but in some cases it really can be best to upgrade your heater.
One last question: is your furnace heating up your home as well as it used to? Don’t keep turning your thermostat up and hoping the situation will improve. Call our technicians so we can see what’s going on, and we’ll help you determine if it would be cost-effective for you to put in a new system or repair an old one.
We’re ready to answer your questions or schedule your appointment, call now or book online!
