Are you wondering whether it’s time to replace your furnace? Typically, a brand-new furnace can last for more than 40 years, although this is rare. On average, the lifespan of a furnace is anywhere from 15 to 30 years.
So what’s the trick to making your furnace last a long time? Having furnace maintenance every year will easily extend its lifespan. Continue reading to learn about the signs that it may be time to consider furnace replacement services.
Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
One of the biggest concerns homeowners have is being able to determine when their furnace needs to be replaced. Fortunately, there are many signs that you can use to help you figure out if you need to call in a technician.
Let’s take a look at some of these signs:
Loud Sounds
One of the first signs that may indicate your furnace needs replacing is hearing loud noises while it is running. Some of the most common sounds are humming, rattling, screeching, and popping.
For instance, popping in your furnace is a result of temperature changes within your furnace. These popping noises can be caused by certain parts of the system that are impacted by the change in temperature. Humming noises can be the result of the furnace blower motor. Yet if these sounds are getting louder, it can mean it’s time to have your furnace replaced.
Collection of Soot
Another obvious sign that it’s time to have your furnace replaced is the collection of soot near the furnace register. Also, noticing excessive amounts of soot and dust throughout your home is a clear sign that your furnace is overproducing carbon dioxide.
If you examine closely, you’ll find the soot close to the grille and furnace register. The register is responsible for controlling airflow in your home. So, don’t ignore the presence of dirt or soot near your furnace.
Increase in Energy Bills
Once a furnace has been in your home for at least 15 years, it becomes much more challenging to distribute the air throughout your home. The harder your system has to work, the higher your energy bills will be.
So, if you’ve ever taken a peek at your energy bills every month and noticed a huge increase, you may want to consider having your furnace replaced.
Change in Furnace Flame Color
Furnaces that run efficiently will always have a flame that is blue. Any color other than blue, such as yellow, is a sign that your furnace is inducing carbon monoxide, which is never a good thing.
Seeing a yellow flame in your furnace can also indicate a possible gas leak. In this case, you must contact a professional immediately. In addition, yellow flames that are accompanied by a foul gas smell are considered an emergency situation.
Furnace is at Least 15 Years Old
As mentioned earlier, the average furnace can last anywhere between 15 and 30 years. The simplest way to extend the lifespan of your furnace is to have a technician come out and conduct annual maintenance and repairs every year.
Even still, once your furnace is at least 15 years old, it’s highly advisable to start your search for a furnace replacement.
Water Leaks
Has your old furnace begun leaking water? Most of the time, an active water leak in the furnace may indicate a broken or clogged condensate line. Furnaces that are highly efficient often produce condensation while they are running.
The condensation is then drained via the condensate line. And while lines that are broken or clogged can be easily fixed, water leaks can also mean something more serious is going on, such as a cracked heat exchanger.
Repeated Repairs
Having several or back-to-back furnace repairs over a few years’ time span can also mean that your furnace is on the verge of breaking down. You should take action as soon as you notice an issue with your furnace. This prevents costly repairs later on down the line.
So, How Long Does a Furnace Really Last?
Furnaces can last up to 30 years, but many homeowners have begun looking to have them replaced around the 15-year mark. The following factors can affect the lifespan of a furnace:
- Furnace Size
- Installation
- Maintenance
- Thermostat Settings