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5 Signs That It’s Time for a New Furnace

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Your furnace serves you faithfully year after year, but you suspect its time may be drawing to a close. Most homeowners find themselves very conflicted when trying to decide if they should repair or replace their furnace. For all you know, it might last a couple more years… or it might break down on a cold winter night, leaving you without heat and facing the unexpected major expense of a replacement. A furnace is like your car, a mechanical device. It will eventually wear out and need to be replaced before necessary repairs exceed your budget. Don’t be caught off guard – read on for some telltale signs that it’s time to replace your furnace.

1. Your Furnace is Old

Furnaces can be expected to last anywhere from 15-20 years, depending on the type. As they age, they will naturally wear down and become less efficient. Eventually, the cost of repairs and energy for an older furnace makes it more cost-effective to upgrade to a new one. If your furnace is over 10 years old, you should track your repair history and plan for a replacement.

2. Your Energy Bills Are High

Pay close attention to your energy bill when the weather gets cold. Furnaces run less and less efficiently as they age, meaning they consume more energy. If your energy bills are significantly higher than last winter, it could mean that your furnace is struggling to do its job.

3. You’re cold

If you set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature but you still feel cold in your home, your furnace may no longer be able to perform at the level you need. Furnaces also have trouble pushing heated air throughout the entire house as they age, so you may feel too cold in some rooms but not in others. You should have your system checked to rule out a broken thermostat, or ductwork issues, but if that’s not the case, it may be time to replace your furnace.

4. Your Furnace is Loud

Furnaces are supposed to make some noise. This mostly comes in the form of a gentle whooshing as it cuts on, then a low-level hum that easily fades into the background. If your furnace is making unusual noises such as rattling, screeching, loud humming, or popping, call a professional right away to investigate. These noises indicate serious problems, and a repair will be needed at the very least.

5. Your Furnace Requires Frequent Repairs

This is the most important factor when deciding whether to replace your furnace. If it needs repairs every cold season, you are spending a lot of money that you could put toward a new furnace instead. These repair costs coupled with rising energy costs should be weighed against the benefits of a new system that will not need repairs and will lower your energy bill.

Replace Your Old Furnace for Enhanced Comfort & Savings

If you’re experiencing one of these symptoms in your home, it may be time to replace your furnace. If two or more of these ring true, it is highly likely that the time has come for a new unit. These days, furnaces can run at up to 98% efficiency, resulting in huge energy savings. A new furnace will run more quietly, keep your home warmer, reduce your energy bills, and save you money on repairs.

Last but not least, Massachusetts has a program called Mass Save. Through Mass Save, property owners may qualify for hundreds or thousands of dollars in rebates to assist with the purchase of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Rebates are also available for lighting, weatherization, and other home improvements. 

Don’t wait until your old furnace dies to be pushed into this decision – contact Suburban HVAC. Call 781-769-1515 or contact us online. We offer affordable, flexible financing options with approved credit!

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serving eastern Massachusetts
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TAKE COMFORT. WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.