It seemed like the summer heat in Atlanta would never end, but here we are on the cusp of winter. Preparing for the cold weather means checking your HVAC system now to ensure it is working properly. Waiting until that first cold night to find out your system needs replacement is not a solid strategy. Look for these signs that it’s time to purchase a new furnace.

• How old is your furnace? The average life expectancy of a furnace is approximately 16 to 20 years. If yours is getting up there in years, it might be time to purchase a new furnace.
• Are gas or electric bills on the rise? As heating systems age, they lose some of their efficiency. Run the numbers to determine if investing in a new one might be a better strategy than paying higher energy costs.
• Have you had your furnace repaired in the last few years? The older it is, the more often repairs are needed.
• Are you constantly running to the thermostat to try to dial in a comfortable temperature? Older furnaces have a hard time distributing heat effectively.
• Keep an eye out for signs of a carbon monoxide leak. Indicators include a yellow or flickering flame, streaks of soot around the unit, excess moisture on windows or walls, or rust on pipes, connections and appliance jacks.
• Does your heating system make strange noises? Under normal operation, they should be quiet and efficient. Banging, popping or rattling, or excessive blower noise may be a sign that its time to purchase a new furnace.
• Has your family had any strange health issues recently? Frequent headaches, burning nose or eyes, nausea or disorientation can all be signs of a carbon monoxide leak.
• Does your home feel increasingly musty or stale? Old units begin to lose their ability to clean your air. Dry noses, throats and skin may be an indicator that it’s time for replacement.

When it is time to purchase a new furnace, contact the experts at Powers Heating & Air. They have been serving the Fayette County area since 2001.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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