You shouldn’t wait before your heating system fails to schedule a furnace replacement. Whether your furnace is near the end of its lifespan or not that old, there are many good reasons to consider an upgrade. You can replace your heating system at any time. However, we recommend doing so in the fall before it gets too cold. Winters in Upstate New York tend to drag on for several months, even after the official end of the season, so you’ll appreciate having reliable heat. Here are a few reasons we recommend furnace replacement before your system fails:
You Can Avoid Dealing with a Heater Breakdown or Failure
When a furnace breaks down, it’s usually at the worst time. The high demand during the coldest weather can set a failing system over its limit. Replacing your heating system before the winter season avoids expensive emergency calls. It also avoids paying more to repair or replace the unit compared to the off-season when prices are lower. You also eliminate the costs of frequent repairs, which can add up to more than purchasing a new furnace.
Monthly Energy Bills Can Be Reduced
An aging furnace loses efficiency over time. However, older units also use more energy than newer models. The energy usage of a furnace is determined by its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). A combustion furnace must have an AFUE of at least 80%; your older unit may be less than that. However, a newer system is likely to have an AFUE of 95% or greater so little, if any, fuel is wasted while producing heat. This results in a substantial decrease in your monthly energy bills.
Your Home Will Be More Comfortable
Signs of a failing furnace include:
- Parts of your home are too warm.
- Some rooms are drafty or too cool.
- The heater runs longer, but your home is less comfortable.
- Your home’s air is too humid.
- There are mold and indoor air quality issues.
- Your furnace makes banging, popping, rattling, or squealing noises.
- Lots of dust and dirt come from duct vents.
Scheduling furnace replacement before the system fails can resolve all these problems, including issues that can impact your health. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can make life difficult for people with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. Installing a new furnace and changing the air filter regularly will improve IAQ.
At the very least, every room will be warm and cozy, so your home is the refuge from the winter cold, snow, and ice that it should be.
Your Family’s Safety
An older furnace, especially one over 15 years old, is more prone to issues that can impact your safety. A unit on the brink of failure may leak carbon monoxide (CO), which is deadly despite being colorless and odorless. Issues with ventilation or a cracked heat exchanger can cause CO to build up. If an ignitor, pilot light, or burner malfunctions, it can trigger a fire that may spread beyond the furnace and the space around it, causing extensive property damage. Therefore, furnace replacement should be considered, even if it’s only for the safety of your household.
You Can Avoid Delays In System Replacement
If your furnace fails during extreme weather, limited product availability can cause delays, leaving you without heat for some time. Poor weather and road conditions can prevent a heating contractor from reaching your home quickly. At the very least, options may be limited and you’ll have less time to plan. Therefore, you may end up with a furnace that’s outside your budget or not ideal for your home.
Should You Schedule Furnace Replacement Now?
Furnaces in Clifton Park and surrounding areas work hard throughout the winter. Wear and tear take a toll on your heating system. Considering a replacement sooner allows you to receive professional advice from a heating expert. At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, our technicians can advise you on the best make, model, and size of heater for your home that runs reliably, quietly, and efficiently and reduces your carbon footprint.
Call Grasshopper Today
You can expect free estimates, upfront pricing, and exceptional service from Grasshopper Heating & Cooling. Our NATE-certified technicians provide sound advice and customized solutions for your home. High-quality, energy-efficient products, our commitment to customer satisfaction, and our specials and financing options show improving your comfort and well-being is our priority. To schedule furnace replacement before your system fails, call (518) 241-1758.
