One of the toughest decisions homeowners face is when it’s the right time to stop making repairs on an item in your home and opt for a total replacement instead. If you’re wondering, “Should I replace my old furnace?” chances are, you feel like there are pros and cons either way. Feeling 100% confident about when it’s time to take the leap is tough but Cellino Plumbing & HVAC has repaired enough furnaces and installed enough total replacements to help you recognize the telltale signs that show your furnace is on its last leg. Keep reading to see signs to look for so you can replace your furnace before it dies!

Signs a furnace is on its way out

It’s crucial to have a working furnace when you live in or around Buffalo, NY. Low temperatures make it necessary to rely on this unit for large stretches of the year. That’s why it’s important to know the signs that indicate a problem is present so you know when to replace your furnace and AC.

Loud banging noises/vibrations

If you’ve noticed that your furnace is suddenly making strange noises—or even vibrating—this is definitely a sign there’s a problem. Really any unusual noises are cause for concern and should immediately alert you that something has changed. 

Thermostat/actual temperature of your home doesn’t match up

Have you ever noticed that you set your thermostat to one temperature but it’s obvious your house isn’t getting to your desired temperature? Alternatively, do you notice certain rooms are colder than others? These are both signs that your furnace isn’t heating your home properly.

Unexpected large increases in your utility bill

Most homeowners can estimate what their utility bill will be based on previous months pretty accurately. If you notice a drastic change in your utility bill without a reasonable explanation, your furnace is likely to blame. 

Strange odors coming from the appliance

If you happen to notice any strange smells coming from your furnace, this is a key sign that something is wrong inside.

Frequent repairs needed

It makes sense to make repairs up to a certain point. Of course, repairs are less expensive than a total replacement and a small repair might be all you need to keep your furnace running smoothly for some time. That’s why it’s best to call a professional to assess the situation if you notice any of these issues (we even offer same-day furnace repair if it’s urgent).

But if you’re noticing repairs being needed more and more often, then this is a sure sign that your furnace is breaking down and reaching the point of no return. Eventually, making even small repairs frequently enough adds up quickly and it will become more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a new unit.

Your furnace is at the end of its life expectancy

In general, the life expectancy of a furnace is 15-30 years. But it’s often better to replace it sooner rather than later. If your unit is approaching this timeframe, it’s best to begin looking into replacement options and consider making the switch before your unit completely breaks down.

Tips for replacing your furnace

Making the decision to replace your furnace isn’t always an easy one. Things like cost, not knowing your options, and general uncertainties can be overwhelming. But we’re here to help! Here are some useful tips to keep in mind.

Look into the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

New York offers eligible participants assistance to help them heat and cool their homes. You might be wondering, “Will HEAP replace my furnace?” If you qualify, the program can cover the cost of furnace installation! You can learn more about this program, and a few others, here. 

Make use of financing options

If you don’t qualify for the HEAP or other assistance programs, you still have options! We offer several different flexible financing options for our customers so that you don’t have to hold off on making important upgrades. Click here to learn more about our financing options and to see our current coupons. 

Consider all your options

When you replace your furnace, you don’t necessarily need to replace it with a newer furnace. If you want a more eco-friendly or efficient option, you might choose to replace a gas furnace with a heat pump. Electric heat pumps are able to heat and cool your home!

Work with a company you trust

Whether you simply need to replace furnace parts to get your furnace working properly again, or you need an entirely new unit installed, it’s essential to have complete trust in the company you’re working with. Cellino Plumbing & HVAC has decades of experience in Hamburg, NY and the surrounding areas, the reviews to back up our hard work, and proof we use industry-leading products.

Replace your furnace when the time is right

So, when is the right time to replace your furnace? It’s not easy to say when the exact right time to replace a furnace is but it’s definitely best to do it before it breaks down entirely! If you look for the signs outlined here, you’ll know when it’s time to call a professional so they can assess and decide if a repair or replacement is the way to go. If you’d rather be safe than sorry, then keep our expert tips in mind when you opt for a replacement. If you have any questions or need help with your furnace now, please feel free to reach out any time!