Signs Your Furnace is Dying (And How to Avoid a Frozen Winter!)

In Arizona, furnaces have become essential for maintaining comfort during the winter months. However, like all home appliances, furnaces have a limited lifespan. As they age, they become less efficient and may start to show signs of wear and tear. Homeowners must be aware of these signs and take appropriate action.

In this blog, we will highlight key indicators that your furnace is nearing the end of its life and provide tips on how to extend its longevity.

Key Highlights

• Unexplained spikes in heating bills could indicate that your heating system is no longer efficient.
• If your heating unit is over 15 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
• Frequent repairs in recent years suggest that your heating system is on its last legs.
• Strange noises or smells coming from your unit could be a sign of a dying system.
• Inconsistent heating and cold spots in your home may indicate that your system is struggling to distribute heat properly.
• A yellow flame instead of a blue flame in your gas unit suggests a combustion issue.

Key Signs Indicating Your Furnace Might Be on Its Last Legs

1. Unexplained Spike in Heating Bills One of the earliest signs that your heating system is aging is an unexpected spike in your heating bill. If your energy bill increases significantly without a change in usage, it may be time to call HVAC experts for an inspection or replacement.

2. Unit Over 15 Years Old An average heating system has a lifespan of 15-20 years. If your system is older and showing signs of wear, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continue with repairs.

3. Frequent Repairs in Recent Years Frequent repairs are a clear sign that your heating system is nearing the end of its life. If the cost of repairs is approaching the cost of a new unit, replacement is likely the best option.

4. Strange Noises or Smells Strange noises or smells are another indication of a failing heating system. Rattling, banging, or squealing noises suggest worn-out components, while unusual odors could indicate ventilation issues. Immediate inspection is recommended to avoid safety hazards.

5. Inconsistent Heating and Cold Spots If some areas of your home are colder than others or your heating system struggles to heat your entire home, it may be a sign that your unit is failing. Consistently adjusting the thermostat to compensate is a sign it’s time for a replacement.

6. Yellow Flame Instead of Blue A yellow flame in a gas unit indicates incomplete combustion, which can lead to increased fuel consumption and potential safety hazards. Professional inspection and potential replacement are advised if you notice this issue.

7. Increased Dust and Dry Air An increase in dust and dry air in your home can also indicate an aging heating system. Old units lose their ability to filter dust and allergens properly, leading to indoor air quality issues.

How To Extend the Life of Your Furnace

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks Regular furnace maintenance checks by HVAC professionals can identify minor issues before they become major problems. This includes cleaning the system and inspecting for worn-out components.

2. Replace the Air Filter Regularly Replacing your air filter twice or thrice a year helps maintain system efficiency and reduces the strain on your unit.

3. Ensure Proper Insulation Proper insulation helps maintain heating efficiency and reduces energy consumption by preventing heat loss.

4. Install a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures based on your schedule, reducing unnecessary strain on your heating system and lowering energy bills.