Your furnace may not be something you think about on a daily basis, but if it stops working it will definitely get your attention.
How long does a furnace last? It is a good idea to know the average furnace’s lifespan and what to expect just before it goes out.
Here are 5 signs that your furnace is dying.
How Long Does a Furnace Last?
The average furnace life expectancy is around 20 years. If your current furnace is nearing this age range, you should begin looking around for a new unit.
You don’t want to wait for a heating emergency and be backed in a corner with a rushed project on your hands.
One indicator may be recent repairs. Many parts of a furnace will start to go out around the same time frame. If you have had worked done more than once in a year or two, that is a good sign of an aging or dying unit.
Higher Electric Bill
As your furnace starts to fade and become less efficient, it has to work harder to heat. This will drive up your electric bill.
If you consistently have a higher bill, you may need to look to your furnace as the source of the issue.
Here are a few other tips to help lower your bill.
One option you may be considering is going green with your heating and cooling.
It Goes Bump in the Night
If you are hearing strange noises at any time of the day, it is a good chance they may be coming from your aging furnace.
Common sounds are popping, banging and rattling noises. Not only are those sounds annoying, but they are signals that it is time to replace the unit.
Does Your House Stay Warm?
How long should a furnace last? As long as it actually heats!
Do you constantly have to turn your thermostat up or down to stay comfortable?
Are all the rooms in your house heated consistently?
An old furnace that is nearing its final days is unable to adequately distribute warm air throughout your home. Some rooms will be too hot and others too cold.
A Yellow Burner Flame
The burner flame of a good furnace is blue. You should occasionally check the color of the flame in yours.
If you see a yellow flame that can be a sign of carbon monoxide poison being produced. This is a very dangerous gas that is virtually undetectable but can harm your family.
Any sign of a yellow flame should result in you calling someone out to inspect your unit immediately.
Here is additional information on other common heating problems and what to do about them.
The Heat is On
There is never a good time for your furnace to go out. Fortunately, there are signs that it is starting to fail.
Paying attention to these signs will give you the time needed to find the best replacement unit for your home and have it installed without any disruption of cozy nights.
If you need help with any of your heating or cooling needs, we are here to help.
