This Fall, Watch for These Signs That Your Heater Needs To Be Replaced
Northern winters are cold, windy, and harsh. The worst thing that can happen for homeowners is a heater breakdown. Without heat, the residents of the home will be uncomfortably cold. Not only that, but the risk of burst pipes increases as the temperature drops.
To avoid a heater breakdown, get a heater replacement sooner rather than later. The best time to schedule heater maintenance and furnace installation is in the early fall, when the busy air conditioning season has ended, and in the winter, which induces a high volume of emergency heating calls.
But how can homeowners tell if they need heater replacement? Look for these signs.
The Heating Unit Is Old
Residential furnaces can last up to 15 or 20 years, but this is usually only true for well-maintained units. Here in the "Great White North," heaters are used frequently and relied upon heavily. This can cause significantly more wear and tear, not to mention some loud noises signaling their age.
For that reason, if the heater is over 15 years old, it may be time for a replacement. Newer units are more reliable and energy-efficient, which will save money on repairs and utility bills.
The Heater Needs Frequent Repairs
As a heater ages, it starts to break down more frequently. This is usually due to normal wear and tear, the accumulation of dirt and debris, the loss of lubrication between moving parts, or moving parts falling out of alignment. Not only will these issues require professional repair, but also they can become noisy and add another layer of discomfort to the home.
Frequent visits from an HVAC technician and the ensuing repairs and replacement parts can quickly become expensive. If a heater requires too many costly repairs, it may be better to get a heater replacement. As a rule of thumb, consider the cost of repair and replacement. If that repair is over one-third of a new unit - replacement will often be the better option.
Energy Bills Are Too High
Most homeowners will notice a spike in their electric bill or fuel bill? There are a few possible explanations, including that the house is drafty and losing heat, the thermostat is malfunctioning, there's a problem with the heater's ignition, or they have a leak in their ductwork. Similarly, this increase in utility costs could mean that the heater is frequently turning on and off, struggling to heat the entire home. In that case, it's probably time for a heater replacement.
Modern heaters are much more energy-efficient than their older counterparts. They can produce greater heat using less fuel. After a heater upgrade, homeowners should notice their heater running less frequently and a reduction in utility bills. Of course, working with a licensed and experienced heating contractor is always the best way to ensure homeowners find the right replacement unit for their home.
About Alberta Indoor Comfort
Alberta Indoor Comfort specializes in heating services. Their technicians attend regular training classes, so they are knowledgeable and up-to-date in the latest technologies. Alberta Indoor Comfort is proud to offer personalized attention, timely service, upfront pricing, and warranties on parts and labor. Contact them for heater and furnace replacement in Calgary, AB today!
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