September 2022

As summer turns to fall, there’s no better time to check if your home heating unit needs an upgrade. The approaching cooler months provide the perfect opportunity to test your system before it’s too chilly indoors. Even with proper HVAC maintenance, there may be issues that indicate it’s time for a replacement.

While a heating upgrade is an investment, it can save you money in the long run with better efficiency and lower maintenance costs. Here, we’ll look at 8 reasons why it might be time to consider an upgrade to your home heating unit.

1. Your heating unit is older than 15 years

On average, home heating systems last between 15 and 25 years. Depending on the type of heating unit you use, that number can change. For instance, gas furnaces typically last from 15 to 20 years, while electric furnaces can last from 20 to 30 years. For most heat pumps, the average lifespan goes down to 15 years.

2. Your energy costs are rising

As your heating system ages, it tends to require more effort to thoroughly heat your home. This extra work can lead to higher energy bills. If you see a sharp spike in your monthly statement, it could indicate that there’s a break in your system.

3. Your heating unit is not efficient

Your gas or electric system’s energy efficiency is measured by its AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating.  A high-efficiency heating system has an AFUE rating of 90% to 98.5%. A mid-efficiency heating system has an AFUE rating of 80% to 83%, and any AFUE rating lower than that is considered a low-efficiency heating system. The more efficient system, the more money you will save on your monthly bill.

4. Your system needs regular repairs

If your system is frequently in need of repair, those costs can add up quickly. In many cases, you are better off investing in a more efficient system than continuing to pour money into a broken unit.

5. Your equipment is producing loud or unusual sounds

Sometimes, a loud noise coming from your unit is due to a simple problem like a clogged filter or a loose return air filter grille. But if you’re hearing persistent, strange noises like banging, rattling, or scraping, it could indicate a larger issue.

6. You’re experiencing unpleasant odors

Along with odd noises, your heating unit can give off a strange, unpleasant odor if it is malfunctioning. A smell like burning, chemicals, mold, or soot coming from your heater may point to a problem like overheating of your system’s internal parts or wiring. If you experience any alarming odors coming from your heater, call your HVAC service provider right away.

7. Your indoor temperature is uneven

An old, damaged, or defective system can cause fluctuations in your home’s temperature. It may struggle to properly heat a particular room or area of your house, resulting in an uneven overall temperature.

8. Your circuit breaker keeps tripping

While it’s normal for your circuit breaker to trip occasionally, if your heating unit is causing it to trip often, it’s a sign that your system is malfunctioning. Most likely, this is due to normal wear and tear. In some cases, a repair may solve the issue, but usually, a full replacement is the best long-term solution.

Is it time for an upgrade?

If you’ve experienced any of these issues with your home heating system, it might be time to consider a newer, more efficient model. But a heating system replacement is a major investment, so before you take action, it’s best to consult with a pro.

At Hauck Brothers, we have over 100 years of experience working with home heating units. Our highly trained technicians can examine your equipment and discuss with you if it’s time to replace it.  Our knowledgeable salesforce can then provide recommendations to find the best replacement for your needs. Get help with your home heating upgrade by reaching out to us today!

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