Common Signs The Heater Needs A Fall Replacement
The heater is an often unseen component that is essential for a household. Although heaters hardly receive attention when working correctly, they can become a homeowner’s nightmare when the time comes for a replacement – mainly because it can leave homeowners without heat. Fall is the perfect season to assess heaters to avoid the worst-case scenario of a unit breakdown right as it is most needed.
Clues such as unusual noises, uneven heating dispersion, constant repairs, humidity problems, and more can alert a homeowner that their heater is on its last leg. Continue reading to learn more about these symptoms.
Age Matters When It Comes To An HVAC System
A heater is supposed to work for 15 – 20 years, and many homeowners purchase a house in the middle of a heater’s lifespan. To get a better idea of how long a heater should last, homeowners can look at the system’s serial number. The system’s model and serial number are located on the heater, either on the exterior or interior paneling. Some serial numbers will indicate the year in the first two numbers. If not, use the model and serial number to look up through the manufacturer’s website the year the unit was installed.
Although it may be possible to extend the use of a heater, costly repairs and inefficient energy use could outweigh the benefits. Consult with an HVAC professional for advice on when to replace a heater.
Is The Unit Broken As Often As It Is Fixed?
Frequent repairs can be an indicator that a heater has passed its prime. Common heater problems include fluctuating temperatures, poor airflow, unusual noises, and even issues with humidity levels. Some homeowners choose to continue frequent repairs in lieu of a full unit replacement. If a heater requires too many visits from an HVAC contractor, it may be time to weigh the pros and cons of helping an older system limp along versus upgrading to a newer unit.
Once a heater reaches its expected lifespan, it will never perform as well as it did in its younger years. In the end, a one-time replacement fee can save thousands, as well as keep a home safe against pollutants and carbon monoxide. When a heater requires upkeep too often, it is most likely time to replace the heater.
Why Are The Energy Bills Rising?
If the energy or gas bills are higher than normal, the heating system is most likely running less efficiently. A less efficient system will have to work harder to achieve the same results as a newer system. Another likely scenario is if a homeowner finds themself turning up the heat because the thermostat reading does not accurately represent how cold a room feels.
Part of a heater’s job is to push the warm air throughout the house. If some rooms are significantly colder than other rooms, this means that circulating the warm air is harder for the heater than it used to be. If it is necessary to turn the heater up to have the same warmth it maintained in previous years, the gas bill will suffer.
Of course, for any homeowner in need of help assessing these issues, it’s always best to contact a local heating contractor.
About Polestar Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
With over 35 years in the HVAC services, Polestar Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has become a trusted name in Merriam and the surrounding area. Their goal is to provide reliable heater replacement, backed by their 100% satisfaction guaranteed, flat-rate pricing, and 24/7 emergency availability. Give them a call today with any questions you have about heating installation in Merriam.