During the winter, families are more demanding of their home heating systems because of the cold weather, especially when the temperature drops below freezing in Elmhurst, IL. If your heating system breaks down, it’s a necessity to get it working again to keep your family comfortable.
However, how do you know if you need heater repair services or heater replacement? Let’s look at some signs that indicate when it’s time to replace your home’s heating system instead of repairing it.
The Age of Your Heating System
Like any other major appliance, your home heating system has a life cycle. As it reaches the end of that cycle, it becomes less energy efficient and starts to need repairs more often.
The majority of home heating systems last between 15 and 30 years depending on the brand and quality. If your unit starts to break down often and is within this age range, a whole heating system replacement might be your best option.
Replacing an aging heating system comes with a couple of big benefits. First, having a newer system means that it will require fewer small repairs during regular maintenance. Second, heating systems account for nearly 29% of a typical utility bill. Since newer units are more energy efficient than aging ones, replacing your home heating system is a good way to save on heating costs.
Uneven Heating
If you have a whole-home heating system, it’s supposed to distribute heat throughout your home evenly. As the system ages, the rooms that are farthest away from the core unit may feel colder than the rooms that are closer. This unbalanced heating could be a sign that your system needs to be replaced sooner rather than later.
The Need for Frequent Repairs
How many times have you needed heater repair services in the last two years? If it seems like you are always having to call a professional to repair your system, your system may have reached the end of its life.
The last few years of a unit’s life is when it typically has the most breakdowns. If you are having to replace something on your unit every two years, you would probably be better off replacing the whole unit instead.
Just remember not to count maintenance as repair. Having a professional maintain your heating system at least once a year is always a good idea. Doing so can help you avoid significantly higher repair costs. Additionally, it could extend the life of your heating system.
Strange Noises
Sometimes, strange noises coming from your heating system simply mean that it needs repair services. Most of the time, though, strange noises are an indication that your system is reaching the end of its life and needs to be replaced. It just depends on the kinds of noises that your heating system is making.
The best way to determine the cause of the noises is to reach out to a professional to assess the problem. It could be a motor failure, deteriorating parts, or an issue with the ductwork in your home.
On the topic of noise, do you hear the heating system’s blower running excessively? This is a sign that the system is struggling to keep your house at your desired temperature. As a result, it might be time for you to replace the heating system.
Let Oncourse Heating, Cooling, Plumbing Keep Your Family Warm This Winter
If you need heater repair or heating system replacement, Oncourse Heating, Cooling, Plumbing is here to help. Are you still unsure about which one you need? That’s no problem because our licensed contractors can help you determine if it’s better to repair or replace your system. We work on a number of heating systems, including furnaces and boilers. Learn more about our heating system replacement service when you call us today.
