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This late in the year might seem like a poor time to make a major change to your HVAC system. Winter is here, as is the cold weather. You’ll need your furnace working regularly through the next few months. If you need any HVAC service in Nashville, TN right now, it probably won’t be to replace the entire furnace.
However, if your furnace is giving you warning signs that it may not get through the winter, you definitely want it replaced as soon as you can arrange for it. The consequences of a faulty furnace are steep: energy waste, the risk of a sudden breakdown that leaves you in the cold at the worst time, and even safety hazards.
We’re local heating professionals, and we know how to read the “tea leaves” of an older furnace to tell when it’s on the way out. Here are some of the warning signs of a dying furnace that you can look for.
1. Age of the Furnace
Most furnaces have a lifespan of 15–20 years with regular maintenance. If your furnace is nearing or has surpassed this age range, it’s likely time to consider a replacement. Older furnaces tend to lose efficiency and are more prone to breakdowns, even if they’ve been serviced regularly.
2. Rising Energy Bills
Have you noticed a steady increase in your heating bills that doesn’t align with how often you’re using your furnace? This could indicate your furnace is struggling to perform efficiently. As internal components wear down, the furnace must work harder to heat your home, leading to higher energy consumption.
3. Frequent Repairs
A furnace that requires frequent repairs is a sign that it’s reaching the end of its usefulness. If you’ve had to call for service multiple times in the past year, or if the cost of repairs is approaching 50% of the price of a new furnace, replacing it is often the more cost-effective option.
4. Uneven Heating
Are some rooms in your house too hot while others remain cold? Uneven heating can be a sign of a furnace that is no longer distributing heat properly, often due to wear and tear. While ductwork issues can sometimes cause uneven heating, an aging or failing furnace is often the culprit.
5. Strange Noises
Banging, rattling, or screeching noises from your furnace are not normal. These sounds often point to failing parts, such as a cracked heat exchanger, loose components, or a failing blower motor. Persistent strange noises should be inspected by a professional and may indicate it’s time for a replacement.
6. Yellow Burner Flame
The burner flame on a gas furnace should be blue. If it’s yellow, this may indicate incomplete combustion, which can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. This is not only a warning sign for furnace failure but also a significant safety hazard that requires immediate attention.
Don’t Wait for a Breakdown
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to consult a professional HVAC technician. Replacing your furnace before it fails completely ensures your comfort and safety throughout the winter. While it may seem inconvenient to replace your furnace now, the long-term benefits—reliability, energy efficiency, and peace of mind—are well worth it.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or get a free estimate on a furnace replacement. Experience the Premier difference this winter!