Expert HVAC Service and Repair in Valparaiso and surrounding areas

Deciding when to replace your furnace involves considering several factors. Here are some key indicators that it might be time to replace your furnace:

Age of the Furnace: The average lifespan of a furnace is typically around 15-20 years. If your furnace is reaching or surpassing this age, and you are experiencing frequent breakdowns or reduced efficiency, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new, energy-efficient model.

Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself repeatedly calling for furnace repairs and the costs are adding up, it may be a signal that your furnace is becoming less reliable and more prone to issues. Investing in a new system could save you money in the long run.

Increased Energy Bills: As furnaces age, they often become less efficient, leading to higher energy bills. If you notice a significant and unexplained increase in your heating costs, it could be a sign that your furnace is no longer operating at peak efficiency.

Inconsistent Heating: If some rooms in your home are consistently too hot or too cold, or if your furnace struggles to maintain a consistent temperature, it may indicate that your system is no longer capable of distributing heat evenly.

Strange Noises: Unusual noises, such as banging, rattling, or popping sounds, may indicate mechanical problems within the furnace. If these issues persist despite repairs, it might be time for a replacement.

Yellow Pilot Light: A pilot light that is consistently yellow instead of blue can be a sign of incomplete combustion, potentially producing carbon monoxide. This is a serious safety concern, and if you observe a yellow pilot light, you should turn off the furnace immediately and seek professional assistance.

Visible Signs of Rust or Cracks: If you notice visible signs of corrosion, rust, or cracks in your furnace, it could indicate structural issues. A compromised furnace can pose safety risks, and replacement may be necessary.

Changes in Home Comfort Needs: If you've made significant changes to your home, such as additions or renovations, and your current furnace is no longer able to meet the heating demands, it may be time to upgrade to a more powerful or efficient system.

Safety Concerns: If your furnace poses a safety risk due to issues such as gas leaks, carbon monoxide leaks, or repeated malfunctions, it's crucial to prioritize the safety of your household and consider replacing the unit.

When contemplating furnace replacement, it's advisable to consult with a licensed HVAC professional. They can assess the condition of your current system, discuss your heating needs, and provide recommendations for the most suitable replacement options. Investing in a new, energy-efficient furnace not only improves comfort but can also result in long-term energy savings.

You should replace the air filter in your furnace on a regular basis. Dirty air filters reduce the amount of air flowing through a system and make the furnace work harder to maintain the temperature. How often you change the filter depends on the type of filter you use, if you have pets and the size of your equipment. 

Please give us a call and we can give you proper guidance.

Normal cooling settings are 75 degrees - 80 degrees. Normal heating settings are 68 degrees - 72 degrees. You should always set your thermostat to the highest possible setting that is comfortable for you in the summer, and the lowest comfortable setting in the winter. Setting your thermostat in this way will maximize your energy savings. On average, every 1 degree of temperature change is equal to about 1% energy savings. For example, changing your thermostat setting from 75 degrees to 76 degrees in the summer could result in savings on your cooling costs.

Yes, we have invested in equipment that allows us to determine a home's airtightness so we can search for leaks. Finding and addressing such leaks will help you save on your energy bills since you will be able to better control the air circulating in your home.

Check out this site to learn more: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/detecting-air-leaks

Common signs include insufficient cooling, strange noises, unusual odors, frequent cycling on and off, and increased energy bills. If you notice any of these signs, it's advisable to schedule a professional inspection.

The duration of repairs varies depending on the complexity of the issue and the availability of parts. Minor repairs may be completed in a single visit, while more extensive repairs could take longer.

While some minor maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, such as cleaning or replacing filters, it's generally not recommended to attempt major repairs without proper training and experience. DIY repairs can pose safety risks and may void warranties.

Repair costs vary depending on factors such as the nature of the problem, the age and condition of the system, and labor rates in your area. A professional technician can provide an accurate estimate after diagnosing the issue.

The decision to repair or replace depends on factors such as the extent of the damage, the age of the system, and its overall efficiency. 

We will be fully transparent with our assessment so you can make the decision whether to repair or replace your central air system.