Warning Signs You Need a New Furnace

December 19, 2022

Having a reliable furnace is critical to ensure your comfort and safety during the cold Eagan winter. If you have not had your heating unit checked in the last few years, now may be the time to do so. Here are some signs that it is time to get a new furnace.

Old Age

Your furnace may be much closer to the end of its life than you think. If it is more than 15 years old, repairs may only buy you a few more years until you have to replace it. Due to the long lifespan of furnaces, many homeowners only get around to replacing theirs once it completely stops working in winter. The best way to avoid this scenario is to know your unit's age and average lifespan and plan accordingly.

Noisy Operation

If your furnace makes a lot of noise, something may be wrong. That can be anything from rattling noises during regular operation to an odd knocking sound during startup or shutdown. Any persistent unusual noises from your system indicate that something needs to be checked out by one of our professional technicians. These noises often indicate more significant problems, like a failing fan motor or bearings in the blower section.

Leaking Water

If you notice water leaking from a pipe or hole in your furnace, it is time to contact one of our professionals. While a small amount of condensation from your humidifier or air conditioner is normal, you should still have the source of the leak checked out just in case the water damage has spread and caused some unseen problems.

Frequent Breakdowns

While some minor repairs are standard when an appliance is working hard day in and day out, frequent breakdowns mean that the parts are wearing down faster than they should be or that you have more significant problems. Whatever the case may be, it might be time for a new furnace.

Higher Energy Bills

If your energy bills are gradually increasing in the colder months, this might be an indication that your furnace is not running efficiently. This can be caused by a number of reasons, including normal aging, dirty air filters, or malfunctioning components in the furnace or thermostat. Contact us for a maintenance check. We'll let you know if it's time for a new, more-efficient furnace.

Your Home Has Trouble Staying Warm

If your home never reaches the temperature you set on the thermostat, it might be time for a change. A clogged or damaged blower motor won't distribute heat evenly throughout the house. It's also likely that your HVAC system has become clogged with dust and debris over time, making it harder for air to circulate through the home. This will further reduce the effectiveness of your heating system in keeping the house at a comfortable temperature.

Low Airflow or Pressure to the Registers

This is one of the most obvious signs that there is something wrong with your heating system. When airflow or pressure to the registers is less intense than it should be, it's harder for the heat to reach all areas of your home, resulting in uneven temperatures and rooms with too much or too little heat. It can also lead to higher utility bills. Make sure that all the vents are open and that nothing is covering them, including rugs, drapes, or furniture. A technician's check will reveal if the problem is with the furnace itself or another component, such as the ducts.

Smoke or the Smell of Burning

If smoke or an unusual smell arises from your furnace or its vents, this can indicate damage occurring within the unit. If left unfixed, these problems could become worse — and thus more expensive to repair — so it's best to address them as soon as possible. This is also a potential fire hazard for your home, so don't delay.

We're Here for All Your Heating and Cooling Needs

Bob Boldt HVAC offers installation, maintenance, and repair services for all your heating and air conditioning systems in Eagan, MN. We also provide air quality products, including whole-house air purification systems, UV lamps, and UV air sanitizers. Additional products include ductless systems and heat pumps, heat recovery ventilators, and programmable thermostats. We provide a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee and maintenance plans to ensure that you are comfortable all year round. Contact Bob Boldt HVAC today for more information.

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