Winter is a chance to enjoy time inside with family members, especially during the holidays. It’s not easy when your furnace isn’t working well. Like all appliances, they have a finite life span, and recognizing when yours is on the way out can save you time and trouble. Below are telltale signs and how an HVAC specialist can help.

How to Tell If Your Furnace Is Failing

1. Ageing

If you notice your furnace has weaker airflow, takes longer to cool your home, or is making strange noises, see how old it is. Standard electric home units only last 15 years, while gas units last 18 years. An HVAC technician will check and let you know if you aren’t sure.

This is an excellent opportunity to upgrade to an eco-efficient system. Look for ENERGY STAR™-certified products. These are up to 15% more efficient than older models and can pay for themselves through savings.

2. Increasing Electrical Bills

Your furnace will have to work harder to warm air and circulate it in your home as it ages. This leads to energy waste, and you’ll notice your monthly electrical bills are higher than usual. The expense, along with furnace repair costs, gets expensive and may even outweigh a new system's price.

The electrical system and blower that drives air into your home is often the problem. Damaged units use more energy to blow air at their normal pace. The stress may have blown fuses or overloaded the control panel—an issue that requires costly, extensive repairs. HVAC technicians usually recommend replacing units that have extensive electrical damage.

3. Cycling On & Off

Systems short cycle when parts fail. The furnace’s heat sensors or thermostat are common causes. You’ll notice it runs briefly and cuts off before fully heating your home. The heat exchanger may not efficiently heat passing air or may heat it to the wrong temperature if it’s not reading the thermostat’s programming clearly. 

These issues develop from poor maintenance. Debris builds up, worn-down parts aren’t replaced, and the system endures so much stress throughout the year that multiple components fail in succession.

This is why biannual tuneups are so important. Technicians will ensure parts are lubricated and replace connections, wires, and components that show signs of wear.

If you’re tired of dealing with an old furnace, contact an HVAC technician at Air Rescue. These professionals proudly serve O’Fallon, MO, and will help you find the right system for your home. They offer 24/7 emergency HVAC repairs, as well as installation services, and take the necessary steps to keep your home comfortable. Call (636) 764-0700 to schedule an inspection and learn more about their company on their website.