If you have an older heating system or one that has been giving you problems over the last couple of years, now may be the time to upgrade. You can give our team called to schedule an in-home assessment for new heater installation in Salem.
When is it time to replace your heater with a new furnace?
You may need a new furnace if your current system is 10–15 years old, struggles to heat evenly, requires frequent or costly repairs, produces unusual noises, or raises safety concerns. Upgrading to a modern furnace improves efficiency, reliability, and comfort while lowering energy bills.
From there, we can discuss your options for either maintaining your current heater or upgrading to a newer model. Keep reading to learn more about some of the reasons you might want to ditch your old heater for a more modern system.
How Old Is Too Old? Assessing Heater Lifespan
You can expect your heater to last for between 10 and 15 years. Some heaters do last longer, although you really don’t want to leave a heater in place for too long past the 15-year mark. This is because technology is constantly changing in the HVAC industry, and systems become outdated after some time.
And more modern heaters offer better efficiency and more effective heating. Plus, a newer heater is safer to operate. Safety concerns are a top reason to upgrade your older heater. If we don’t feel like we can make reasonable repairs that keep your heater operating safely, we will recommend an upgrade instead. If you’re still weighing your options between system types, our breakdown of gas vs. electric furnaces can help you choose the right fit for your home and efficiency goals.
Comparing Repair Costs to Replacement Savings
When you think about upgrading to a brand-new heating system, you probably see dollar signs. But the truth is, upgrading to a new heater can be very economical. Just think about it, your current heater is likely operating far less efficiently in its old age. Plus, it wasn’t as energy efficient to begin with since technology was very different 15 years ago.
A new heater will offer a more energy-efficient baseline. Plus, without the wear and tear of 15 years of use, your new heater will save you a lot on your monthly energy costs for heating. If you want to maintain efficiency over the life of your heater, be sure to invest in regular heating maintenance every single year. You also need to complete your own homeowner maintenance steps every month to maintain that efficiency. Your effort will pay off.
You also have to consider that your older heater may be costing you by way of frequent repairs. If you have to call our team out for service even just a couple of times a year, those repair expenses can add up. When you invest in a brand-new heater, you have a long lifetime ahead and a manufacturer’s warranty that guarantees your heater for a certain period of time.
Warning Signs Your Heater May Be Near the End
Be sure to pay attention to signs that your heater is beginning to reach the end of its lifespan. You may hear it make unusual sounds that you haven’t heard before. For example, a persistent clicking or humming sound can mean your furnace is struggling to turn on or stay on. Loud noises like rumbling, banging, or booming are also problematic. If this sounds familiar, review which furnace sounds to never ignore and what they could mean for your system’s safety and performance.
Anytime you hear an unusual sound, you need to call for service right away. You can also pay attention to things like bad odors or changes in heating output. Basically, anything out of the ordinary should be considered a red flag. The more problems that you’re having with your heater, the more likely it is that you need to upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How old is a heater when it’s time to consider replacing it?
Answer: Heaters typically last between 10 to 15 years. After this period, they tend to lose effectiveness, and newer models often offer improved energy efficiency and safety. It’s usually a good moment to think about upgrading once your heater surpasses this age range.
Question: What warning signs indicate my heater may need replacement?
Answer: Warning signs include unusual noises like clicking, humming, rumbling, or banging, persistent odors, uneven heating, frequent repairs, rising energy bills, and changes in heating performance. These often point to underlying issues and the potential need for a newer system.
Question: Can replacing a heater help lower my energy bills?
Answer: Yes. Newer heaters, without wear from years of use, run more efficiently. They can significantly reduce your monthly heating costs, especially compared to older systems that lose efficiency over time.
Question: Is it better to repair my current heater or invest in a new one?
Answer: If your heater frequently requires repairs, the costs can quickly add up. A new unit comes with a warranty and longer-term reliability. When repair expenses get high, investing in a new, efficient model often makes more sense.
Your comfort is our business! Comfort Flow Heating serves all of Oregon, so contact our team today to schedule your appointment for heater installation.
541-726-0100