As the temperatures begin to drop, you turn to your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy. Like all HVAC appliances, however, furnaces have a limited lifespan and will need to be replaced in time. But how do you know when it’s time to replace your furnace, and what are the pros and cons of doing do?
Signs That Your Furnace Needs to Be Replaced
There are a lot of signs that may warrant the replacement of your furnace. However, some are not as obvious as others.
Your Furnace Is Too Old
Most furnaces have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, so if yours is within or past this age range, it may be time for a replacement. Though routine maintenance can extend the life expectancy of a furnace, the risk of a breakdown increases the older it gets.
Your Energy Bills Are Exceedingly High
A more obvious sign that your furnace needs replaced is seeing a significant increase in your utility bills. This is because older furnaces work harder to produce the necessary level of heat, which can cause your bill to skyrocket.
Inconsistent Heat
Another key indicator your furnace needs replaced is uneven heating. This occurs when some areas in your home are warm while others are cold. This means that your furnace is not evenly distributing heat.
Pros of Replacing Your Furnace
Now that you know what signs to watch for, let’s look into the pros and cons of replacing your furnace.
Pros of Getting a New Furnace
- Improved energy efficiency: Modern-day furnaces are designed to be more energy efficient, so they can use less power and save you money.
- Enhanced safety features: Aging furnaces are more prone to all sorts of damage, like cracks in the heat exchanger, which can cause carbon monoxide to leak.
- Increased comfort: Newer furnace models are built with advanced features and technologies that improve airflow and allow for better heat distribution.
- Increased property value: A modern furnace can be a key selling point if you plan on selling your home in the future.
Cons of Getting a New Furnace
- Initial cost: Replacing a furnace is very expensive; it can cost up to $10,000 or even more. However, the final price does depend on the type of furnace and its installation requirements.
- Potential disruptions: Another con is how disruptive the replacement process can be. Installation usually requires at least a few days, which can potentially interrupt your daily activities.
- Living in a temperate climate: Replacing your furnace may not be a good investment if you live in an area with mild winters.
We’re Here to Help
The decision to replace your furnace needs to be made carefully. If your furnace is requiring constant repairs or is nearing the end of its lifespan, we’ve got you covered. For furnace replacement in Central Georgia or the Florida Panhandle, reach out to our team at We Care Heating & Air Conditioning today!