If your furnace is not performing at its peak, it might be because it needs repairs or possibly replacement. In this post, we will be sharing six factors to deliberate whether your furnace needs repairs or replacement.

The Age Of The Unit

The age of the furnace is an essential factor to consider. A furnace has an average life of between fifteen and twenty years after which the unit will start failing more frequently. If your furnace is not older than ten years, it can still be repairable. 

Regularity Of Repairs

The regularity of furnace problems that cannot be fixed by yourself can be a good indication that the furnace is not worth saving. Trying to keep a furnace that is not reliable means that you’ll be stuck without heat on colder days, plus you may end up paying more in the end. Keep these two things in mind:
  • If the repair costs do not exceed a third of the price of a new heating system, then it is worth repairing.
  • If the furnace has had repairs done previously which did not keep it functioning for a few years at least, then it needs replacement.

A Fluctuation In Your Energy Bill

If you notice your energy bill keeps increasing in usage, then it’s a sure sign that the efficiency of your furnace is going backward. Your heating system must work double as hard to generate equal amount of heat. This means that your furnace is on its way out. Find out from a HVAC expert like OMNI Heating & air whether upgrading of your ductwork could resolve the issue, or if its time to replace your old furnace for a new one.

Irregular Heating

If the heat is not dispersed evenly, in most cases it could be due to a duct issue. If the home is not warming up uniformly, it can be uncomfortable, and your heating system is working too hard. This would be the best time to contact a repair company to assess whether the problem is due to your duct system or if your furnace needs replacing.

Odd Noises

Older heating systems tend to work harder, resulting in them making popping, banging, or rattling noises. This can lead to an inability to efficiently moisturize the air, which means your home is filled with stale or dry air quality. This is a good indication that you must replace the furnace.

The Color Of The Burner Flame

When natural gas is burning, you will notice a blue flame with a tinge of yellow at the top. If the flame is just yellow, it means that the fuel combustion is not complete, and your furnace is generating carbon monoxide. In such a case, a professional must be contacted right away. I might just mean a small repair, but it could also indicate that your furnace has seen better years. Always call a reputable contractor that has the necessary experience and training to address furnace-related issues.