Signs Your Furnace Is Nearing the End of Its Life (And What to Do Next)

The typical gas furnace lasts 15 to approximately 20 years. Even if the system remains functional after 20 years, there is a good chance that its efficiency will decline. Repair needs will increase to the point that replacement is necessary. Knowing the signs that your furnace is nearing the end of its life is important. Likewise, you need to know what to do next.

Signs the End Is Near for a Furnace

Issues with efficiency, comfort problems, indoor air quality issues, safety, and more frequent repairs tend to be the big signs that a furnace is nearing the end of its useful life. Homeowners can save money by identifying issues early and acting before their equipment shuts down unexpectedly.

Rising Energy Bills

Even with annual tune-ups, furnaces will see about a 2% decline in efficiency annually after their 10th year. Monitor the consumption rates on your utility bills for the last five years. While there will likely be fluctuations due to weather differences, you can use the averages for each winter. There is a good chance you will see your gas consumption go up significantly over a 5-year span, especially after your furnace passes 10 years.

Expensive or Repeated Repairs

All furnaces benefit from routine inspection and maintenance. This process can help professionals spot problems early. These minor issues can usually be addressed with affordable repairs. If a repair is likely to cost more than 50% of the value of a replacement, then it may be wise to replace the system. Likewise, three or more service calls in a two-year span often indicate replacement is needed.

Some late-stage failures are also strongly indicative of replacement. If systems like motors, gas valves, ignitors, or the heat exchanger are failing, talk to a professional about replacing your furnace.

Spotting Flickering Flames

A flickering pilot light flame is a common sign that combustion isn’t complete. This carries with it the risk of carbon monoxide, a deadly gas, getting into your house. The flame should be a steady blue. If you see a yellow or dancing flame, there may potentially be a problem with the heat exchanger or the gas lines.

Signs of Corrosion

Rusting and cracking indicate furnace wear. Corrosion can affect everything from gas pipes to the heat exchanger, risking everything from carbon monoxide exposure to a gas leak that might ignite.

Declining Indoor Air Quality and Comfort

As a furnace ages, airflow can decline. Seals fail, allowing dust infiltration, and cracks in the system also make the situation worse. This often shows up as frequently dirty filters or dust accumulating on surfaces in your living space.

You may also notice that your home isn’t as comfortable as it used to be. Hot and cold spots and inconsistent temperatures coming from your vents and registers may be an issue.

Abnormal Furnace Noises

A modern furnace in good condition should operate quietly. If you notice a squealing sound, there is a good chance that a component is failing in the blower motor. With a newer furnace, a motor replacement might be worth the investment. With an older unit, you are probably better off replacing the system.

Banging or thumping before the start of a heating cycle likely indicates that unspent gas is building up in the chamber and then igniting later than expected. This process produces a thump or a bang as the expanding gas hits the metal of the furnace. Replace the furnace immediately.

What to Do Next

If you haven’t had our team perform a professional inspection in the last year, the time to schedule one is now. Even if the system seems to be in good working order, annual inspections and tune-ups are critical. Our technicians can analyze your system’s performance and airflow. We can then tell you whether the furnace has an issue that may require repair or replacement.

If you can plan for a replacement in the spring, summer, or fall, do so. Replacing a furnace is a lot easier when the weather is pleasant. Approach replacement this way if your furnace has repeated minor problems or declining efficiency but isn’t an immediate hazard. However, do not put off a winter replacement if your system poses a danger. This means there are risks like gas leaks, loud ignitions, or carbon monoxide.

Schedule Heating Replacement with Dominion

Dominion Service Company is a Lennox Certified Dealer, and our team has the knowledge and expertise to work on models from other manufacturers. Based in Brighton, MI, we proudly serve the Southeast Michigan area. We offer quick response times, and our team is available 24/7 for emergencies. Financing is also available for installations and heat pump upgrades after credit approval.

If you’re worried about the aging furnace in your home, contact Dominion Service Company today and discover why so many Brighton families trust us for furnace replacement.