Time to Retire Your Furnace?

While this blog is being written with the temps nearing 90, odds are this is the last blast of summer, and cold weather is just around the corner.  Hopefully you’ve already scheduled your furnace maintenance.  But there is one more thing you need to do.  Ask yourself:  is it time for a new furnace?  When mulling this over, consider that the last thing you want is for your furnace to break down during one of our obscenely cold days.  You will be miserable.  Your pipes could freeze or burst, causing extensive and expensive damage. 

Here are some warning signs to consider while diagnosing your furnace:

1. Age.  Furnaces don’t last forever.  The average life expectancy, depending on who you ask, is between 15 and 20 years.  So if your furnace is in that range, consider investing in a new one.  Yes it is a big outlay (although you can generally finance it), but it is better than having your unit break down.  And chances are your new unit will be more energy efficient, saving you money in the long run.
2. Rising utility bills.  Nearly 30% of annual energy bills go toward heating your home, already making it a huge expense.  An inefficient furnace can make it even more expensive.  So rising energy bills could be a sign of reduced efficiency, and a sign that it is time for a new unit.
3. Frequent repairs. If you have had frequent repairs in the last two years, that is a sign your furnace is nearing “retirement age.”  Plus, as furnaces age, it could be more difficult getting replacement parts.  Quick rule: if the cost of a repair is 50% or more of the replacement cost, replace it.
4. Noise.  Unusual banging, popping, rattling or squealing noises are common when furnaces are about to break down.  Also check to see if your furnace blower is running excessively, if it frequently turns on or off, or if it blows cold air.
5. Comfort.  Are some rooms too hot and others too cold?  If so, that could be a sign that your unit is not distributing air efficiently.
6. Yellow light (it really does mean caution).  A yellow light could indicate your furnace is creating carbon monoxide.  Other carbon monoxide warning signs: streaks of soot around the furnace; no upward draft in the chimney; excess moisture on windows or walls.
7. Your health.  Cracks in your heat exchanges could cause carbon monoxide to enter your home.  Frequent headaches, a burning sensation in your nose and eyes, nausea, disorientation and flu-like symptoms are all signs of carbon monoxide presence.  
8. Dry and dusty home.  Old furnaces often fail to moisturize and clean the air in your home, allowing dust, mold, pollen, dander and viruses to proliferate.  This makes the house feel stuffy and stale. Other signs: static shocks, drooping plants, furniture cracking and musical instruments that do not stay in tune.