A properly working heating system is very important for a home’s comfort and safety during cold weather. However, like any appliance, these mechanical systems wear out over time and need regular maintenance or even complete replacement. Neglecting the early warning signs can lead to a lack of efficiency, higher energy costs, and repairs that can take a big chunk out of your wallet.
Here are the top five signs that your heating system either needs some serious TLC or is on its last legs. And if you find that your heater needs attention, always remember that Parent Heating & Cooling handles heating systems.
1. Increased Energy Bills
One of the most obvious indicators that your heating system is not functioning properly is your energy bills. If your utility costs have gone up significantly but you have not changed how much you use your heating system, it could be working overtime to keep your home warm.
This inefficiency could be caused by several things, including your system’s filters being clogged, aging parts, or the thermostat not working right. If you can’t remember the last time you had your heating system tuned up, it’s probably long overdue.
2. Uneven Heating Throughout Your Home
When you observe some rooms in your home are warming more thoroughly than others, it could be a sign that your system no longer distributes heat evenly. And in some instances, this may not be a quick, simple fix with routine maintenance or part replacement.
If your heating system is behaving this way, it may be time to consult with a professional who can assess the situation and recommend an appropriate course of action. Possible underlying causes for uneven heating include:
- Difficult ductwork runs or ductwork that does not adequately serve all rooms
- A failing blower motor that does not distribute air well
- An aging furnace that does not produce evenly heated air
- An inefficient replacement for your old heating system
3. Frequent Repairs and Strange Noises
When a heating system gets older, it often needs more and more repairs to keep it running. If the system is so old that it frequently calls for repairs, and if those repairs add up to a number higher than 50% of the cost of the system, then most HVAC contractors suggest biting the bullet and going for a new one.
If you are hearing odd noises coming from the furnace or heat pump, this is a clear and urgent call to get your system checked out ASAP. These noises are often indicative or a serious mechanical problem.
4. Poor Air Quality and Excessive Dust
A properly maintained heating system should aid in generating good indoor air quality. If you begin to see a larger amount of dirt, dust, or allergens appearing in your house, it may be the result of a furnace filter that has failed, ductwork that has problems, or a heating system that is simply too old to work correctly.
Additionally, a heating unit that is releasing harmful pollutants (like carbon monoxide) is a serious health risk. If you or anyone in your family is having respiratory or allergy problems, it’s worth having a professional take a look at it, and don’t forget that Parent Heating & Cooling handles heating systems.
5. Age of the System
Most heating systems operate in the 15-to-20-year range. If your system is close to or has passed that age, it may be time to replace it. Even if the system seems to work, models made today are far more energy-efficient, and an energy-efficient furnace could save you significant money over the long term.
A new heating system could also improve comfort and lower your carbon footprint. The fact is that many homes hang on far too long to their old HVAC set-up.
If Your Unit Needs Servicing, Parent Heating & Cooling handles Heating Systems
Your home’s heating system is essential to maintaining a safe and comfortable atmosphere when the temperature outside is low. But like any system, it’s bound to have some sort of issue every now and then, and these problems can sometimes lead to a full breakdown of the system.
Nobody wants to be caught in a situation where they have to pay for emergency furnace repairs. If you’ve noticed any of the signs listed here today, it might be time to call a heating contractor for an immediate inspection.
