If your furnace is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it can be difficult to decide whether you should repair or replace it. Factors like the age of your furnace, the cost of repairs, and other details will influence your decision. Here’s what to know and how we can help you decide if a repair can hold you off or if it’s time to go ahead and upgrade your system.Â
Furnace Lifespan and Signs Your Furnace Is Nearing the End
How long a furnace lasts depends on different factors like the type of fuel it uses and how well it has been maintained over time. Signs that your furnace might be nearing the end of its lifespan include:
- Hearing strange noises
- Noticing unpleasant odors
- Inconsistent heating
- Water leaking from the unit
- More dust than usualÂ
Minor Issues That Can Be Repaired
Short Cycling
Short cycling happens when your furnace turns on and off too much in a short period of time. This prevents it from heating your space properly, which can leave you chilly and uncomfortable. Common causes include but are not limited to a malfunctioning thermostat, a dirty air filter, or a furnace that is too large for your home.
Pilot Light and Ignition Problems
If your furnace’s pilot light is out or the ignition system isn’t working, this can prevent your furnace from starting up at all. Your pilot light may only need to be relit, or you might need a new sensor that tells your furnace to turn on.
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Blocked Condensate Line
High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation as a byproduct of the heat exchange process, and there is a line in these units to drain this moisture away. However, this can get dirty and clogged over time and trigger your furnace’s safety shutoff feature. Cleaning the line is usually enough to fix the problem and should be part of your equipment’s regular maintenance.
Loose or Frayed Wiring
Loose or frayed wiring can cause your furnace to turn off and on inconsistently or even result in complete failure. If you notice your unit isn’t responding or is making strange noises like cracking or popping, this could be an indicator that your wiring needs to be checked.
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When to Consider Replacement
Your Furnace Is Over 15 Years Old
As a furnace ages, it becomes less efficient and more prone to breaking down. An old furnace doesn’t convert as much power to heat as it used to, so if yours has celebrated its 15th birthday or beyond, it might be time to consider upgrading your system.
You’ve Already Done Multiple Repairs
Repeated repair calls are a clear sign that your furnace is on its last legs. As components wear out over time, repairs are needed more often, and the cost adds up. Sometimes, it costs more to keep fixing your furnace than to just replace it.
You Have a Gas Furnace and Want to Upgrade to Electric
If you currently have a problematic gas furnace, now might be the perfect time to switch to electric and say goodbye to fossil fuels. This is a key step in electrifying your home and transitioning to renewable energy.
Your Electric Bills Are High
If your energy bills are higher despite not changing the way you use your furnace, it’s a good bet that your furnace is no longer running efficiently. In this case, upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace may be a better option than trying to make repairs that might not bring down your energy bills at all.
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Trust N.E.T.R., Inc. with All Your Furnace Repair and Installation Needs
When your furnace starts to show signs of trouble, you might not know whether you need to have it repaired or replaced. N.E.T.R., Inc. will carefully evaluate your system and let you know what your options are, so you can make an informed decision about the next step. Contact us now at (781) 933-6387 for a professional furnace evaluation.
