When you buy an older home, you might inherit a few problems along with its quaint charm. In some cases, you might need a new furnace for your Jacksonville, Florida, home. Look for these three red flags when deciding whether or not to replace the furnace in an older home.

The Age of Your Furnace

Consider replacing the furnace in your home if it has more than 15 years under its belt. Most furnaces last between 15 and 20 years, so yours might be nearing the end of its expected lifespan. If you don’t know its age, your HVAC technician can determine this information for you.

Older furnaces are often far less efficient than newer models. Modern systems have higher AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) ratings, which means they are more efficient and consume less energy. Replacing your furnace could reduce your energy bills in the long run.

Strange Sounds or Odors

In some cases, strange odors and noises can indicate a failing furnace. You might hear a loud knocking sound or a low hiss when the system cycles on, especially for the first time. Odors like rotten eggs or burning plastic are also common. However if these odors and noises persist, have an expert check out your furnace to find the source of the problem. An important part of these checks will be to ensure that there is no furnace damage that could lead to serious problems like carbon monoxide leaks.

High Energy Bills

When you receive your first energy bill in an older home, you might do a double take. Several factors can influence a furnace’s efficiency. An experienced pro can inspect the system and make a recommendation for improving its performance. However, sometimes it’s more cost-effective to replace it entirely.

We want you to love every aspect of your older home. If you are concerned about the furnace, give Ocean State Air Conditioning & Heating a call today so we can discuss your heating needs.

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