It’s hard to imagine what we would do if our heating system stopped working in the middle of a cold winter. Having a functioning and efficient heating system not only keeps you and the members of your household warm, but it helps keep you healthy. If you’re wondering whether or not your system is on its last leg, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn about a few signs that it is time to start seriously thinking about having a new heating system installed.
Your Heating Bills Are Getting Higher and Higher
If you’ve noticed a change in your heating bills over the past few winters, it may be an indication that your system is not working as efficiently as it used to. When heating systems lose their efficiency, it takes them longer to bring your home to your set temperature. This results in the system running for longer periods of time, leaving you with higher heating bills.
Warm Air Is Not Evenly Distributed Between Rooms
Another sign that it may be time to get a new heating system is if there is a big difference in the temperatures of different rooms in your home. For example, if your bedroom is consistently 4 or 5 degrees colder than the other rooms in your house, it may mean that your heating system is having trouble pushing enough warm air to some rooms.
Your System Has Required Frequent Repairs
If you’ve found yourself calling for repairs over and over again, your heating system is likely going to continue having trouble meeting the demands placed on it. Heating systems that need regular repairs may have a bigger, underlying problem, and you’ll likely continue shelling out money for repairs until you decide to replace the unit.
Plus, think of all the money you continue wasting on repairs that only provide a temporary fix. This money could be put to better use if it were used toward a new, more efficient system.
Frequently Adjusting the Thermostat
You may believe your thermostat isn’t working properly, but it could actually be an issue with your heating system if you find yourself frequently adjusting the temperature on the thermostat. When the thermostat is set to one temperature, but other rooms in the home feel too warm or too cool, it can indicate that the heating system isn’t able to keep all the rooms in your home set to a consistent temperature.
Short Cycling
Have you noticed that your heat will start up for a few minutes, turn off, and then start up again after just a little bit of time? This is referred to as short cycling and is often caused by an over-heated heat exchanger. When the heat exchanger gets too hot, it shuts the system down. Then, once it has cooled down a bit, the system will start back up. This frequent stopping and starting, again, is very inefficient; in addition to the discomfort it may cause in the temperature of the rooms in your home, it will also increase your energy costs.
You Are Hearing Loud or Strange Noises
Another big sign that your system is ready to be replaced is if it has started making lots of weird, loud sounds. When functioning properly, heating systems should be pretty quiet. So, if you have started hearing rattles, squeals, pops, or other loud sounds, it is likely time to contact a professional about having your system replaced.
You Haven’t Been Performing Regular Maintenance on Your System
Scheduling regular tune-ups for your heating system is essential to keep it working properly. If these haven’t been occurring over the lifespan of the unit, it is possible that there are bigger underlying problems with your system that may be costly, or impossible, to repair. When you have a new system installed, scheduling regular maintenance appointments will be a good way to prevent future issues.
Your System Is Old
If your system is more than 10 years old and is already giving you troubles, it is likely that it is only going to continue to require more costly repairs over the years. Heating systems typically last between 10 and 25 years, so the older your system is, the more likely it is time to purchase a new one.
If you think your home’s heating system is ready for an upgrade, contact Central Air Heating & Cooling today. We service Clackamas County in Oregon and would love to help you select a new, energy-efficient heating system to save you money and keep your home comfortable during the cold winter months. Reach out today to schedule an estimate! We also provide a wide array of cooling services.