When you turn on your heater, you expect it to heat your home without a second thought. However, all types of heating systems — from furnaces to heat pumps — can experience problems and break down unexpectedly.
Do you think your heating system might be close to failing? If so, you should schedule a replacement before the unit breaks down completely, leaving you cold. Of course, it’s not always easy to know when to replace heating systems — especially if you’ve had the same unit for a while.
Below, we’ll go over five red flags that signal imminent heater failure so that you can be proactive about a replacement.
Poor Heating
It can be challenging to know when to replace heating systems. Fortunately, there are some red flags that make it easy to know that it’s time for an overhaul — such as insufficient heating.
Insufficient heating can take more than one form. For example, you may discover hot and cold spots throughout your home. On the other hand, you might notice that your heating system kicks on and off too frequently or that your living spaces never get as warm as you’d like them to.
In any case, poor heating is one of the most common signs of a failing heating system. Some problems, such as short cycling, can often be fixed with a professional heating repair. However, if your unit is getting old and can no longer meet your heating needs, a complete breakdown could be on the horizon. A replacement may be needed.
High Utility Bills
Heating your home isn’t cheap, so it can be frustrating when your heating bills are higher than you expected them to be. Unfortunately, high energy bills are one of the most common red flags that signal imminent heater failure.
As your heating system gets older, it loses its energy efficiency. If your system has poor efficiency, it will waste more and more energy as it tries to achieve your desired temperature. When a heating system has to work extra hard to meet your heating needs, it will experience additional wear and tear that can lead to a breakdown.
Professional maintenance services can help keep your heating system running as efficiently as possible. Don’t forget to schedule HVAC maintenance in Las Vegas on a routine basis. However, it’s important to recognize that maintenance can sometimes only get you so far. If your heating system is old and has lost its efficiency, it may be time for a replacement.
Constant Repairs
Do you have to schedule frequent repairs for your heater? It’s no secret that repair costs can add up, putting a strain on your wallet and your patience. Unfortunately, the need for constant repairs can also be one of the warning signs that your heating system is nearing the end of its service life.
It might be time to put an end to those service calls. In the end, scheduling a replacement can potentially be the most cost-effective option. Plus, you can avoid a sudden breakdown on a day when you need your heating system most.
Sudden Sickness
Have you been experiencing flu or cold-like symptoms inside your home? If you have a gas furnace, there’s a chance that you’re dealing with a carbon monoxide leak. Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, in small amounts, can have many negative health effects, including headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Larger amounts of carbon monoxide inside a home can also be fatal.
If you think you’re experiencing a carbon monoxide leak, you need to evacuate your home, call a professional, and replace your furnace as soon as possible. Sudden sickness can also be one of the red flags that signal imminent heater failure, as you could be dealing with a crack in the heat exchanger or a blocked flue. These are important components for many heating systems and can lead to an unexpected breakdown.
Loud Noises
If you’ve been hearing strange noises coming from your heating system, a breakdown could be in the near future. Watch out for various sounds, such as hissing, popping, and squealing. Although some loud and obnoxious noises can be fixed with a professional repair, these sounds can also indicate that your unit is about to give out.
Have you been wondering when to replace heating systems? If so, don’t overlook strange, clamorous noises. Get in touch with your local HVAC technician ASAP to address the problem.
Schedule Heating Services With the Pros in Las Vegas, NV!
As you can see, there are many red flags that signal imminent heater failure. You might encounter one or more of these issues, depending on your situation and the type of heating system in your home.
Most furnaces last between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance and care. If your heating system is more than 15 years old and fails to meet your needs, it might be time to replace the unit once and for all. Fortunately, this is where Pure Plumbing & Air comes in!
Our heating and cooling experts know when to replace heating systems and can help you find the best solution. Whether you need to repair or replace your heater, we’ll walk you through the process and help you stay comfortable. You can count on us for all of your comfort needs, from a heating system replacement to a water heater installation in Las Vegas. Contact us today!