Replacing Furnace? 6 Signs It Won’t Make Through Winter

Edmonton’s winter is a trying time for a number of reasons, from anxiety about driving to the extra layers of clothing needed just to step outside to the constant backaches from shoveling snow. Spring usually can’t come fast enough. One issue that compounds those frustrations is wondering whether or not the furnace will make it through yet another cold spell. Many times that depends on just how brutal the cold snap is but these 6 signs will give you a pretty good idea if you should be replacing furnace.

Your Furnace is Old

Just like an old automobile that has turned over the odometer 3 or 4 times, with an older furnace you know you’re on borrowed time. It really is a hit or miss game with these devices, some people find themselves replacing a furnace before the 10 – 12 year warranty is even up while others luck out and get efficient production still on year 20. It’s said that the life of a furnace on average is between 16 and 20 years and even with careless maintenance a replacement may be in the future the farther past that timeline you get.

Your Furnace Bills Have Gone Up

When a furnace ages it starts to lose its efficiency because the internal parts become worn and the duct work starts to break down. There’s no real way to tell this with the naked eye unless the utility bills have gone up beyond any rate hikes. When the energy bills rise it’s a tell-tale sign the furnace is on its downhill trend.

You’ve Been Feeling Groggy or Disoriented

Individuals in the household might think they’ve been fighting a bug or in the middle of the Winter doldrums but in fact the disorientation could be caused by a failing furnace. As a furnace ages it develops cracks in the heat exchanger which starts to leak carbon monoxide into the home. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and is a much more serious issue than replacing a furnace. This begs the importance of regular furnace inspections before the heating season begins.

Stranger Noises Than Usual Are Present

Another sign that replacing a furnace may be imminent is the increase of creeks and noises in the home. There are some minimal sounds associated with a furnace firing up but when it starts to rattle and squeak constantly it’s a sign of a bigger issue.

The Air Isn’t As Warm

When there is a disconnect between the furnace and thermostat you’ll find that some rooms are hot while others are cold. When the furnace lacks the power to adequately distribute air throughout the home as dictated by the thermostat, it might be a sign that the end is near.

The Furnace Cycles Frequently

When the blower runs on constantly or the furnace cycles more frequently than it used to, it’s probably best to call in a professional and get the unit inspected. There could be a number of different issues causing frequent cycling.

Remember that not all issues are cause for replacing furnace and some could simply be solved with replacement parts. Either way, be wary of these signs.

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