Is it time to invest in a new furnace for your home? Since furnaces can have a vast average lifespan, it can be difficult to tell whether or not your furnace has reached the end of its life. Gas furnaces can be expected to last for up to 20 years, while electric furnaces can last for as long as 30 years.
There are some telltale signs that indicate your furnace is reaching the end of its life. When you begin to notice these signs, it’s important you start thinking about your next steps. It is always better to plan ahead and be prepared for a furnace replacement, instead of being surprised by one. If you do need furnace installation in Roseburg, our team is here to help.
Furnace Age
The biggest indicator is age. The closer your furnace gets to the end of its average lifespan, the more likely it is that a replacement is sooner rather than later. Your furnace may have an installation date sticker on the outside of the system. If it doesn’t, you can do a search online for the model number along with the name brand. That should give you a good idea of how old your furnace is.
Keep in mind that maintenance plays a huge part in how long your system will last. A very well-maintained furnace will last for the upper range of the average. If you have not invested in annual maintenance, your furnace may need to be replaced sooner than average.
Energy Costs
Over time, your furnace loses efficiency. This means that it takes more energy to produce the same results as when it was brand new. Of course, other things in your home require energy, too. But seeing a significant increase in your energy bill can definitely point to your furnace in the winter. Investing in annual maintenance can help you get back some of this efficiency, but there comes a point when the system is so old that maintenance can’t do any more to help.
Dirt, Soot, and Rust
If you notice an excess of dirt and dust around your home, your furnace could be to blame. You also want to check the inside of your furnace for signs of dirt, soot, and rust. If you have a gas system, soot can indicate that your gas is not burning cleanly. Of course, rust can indicate that there is moisture damage that is causing your system to wear down. If dust is inside your heater, it can impact the lubrication of parts that need to work together, and decrease overall efficiency.
Humidity Issues
The thing about humidity is that there is a just-right level you want to maintain. Too much humidity can allow mold and mildew growth in your home. Plus, it can make the air feel very heavy. Too little humidity can make the air so dry that you begin to experience sinus problems and get sick more easily. Your furnace should help maintain a healthy level of humidity in your home. if the humidity levels are too high or too low, your furnace may be to blame.
Your comfort is our business! Comfort Flow Heating serves all of Oregon, so contact our team today to schedule your appointment.
