.1910230810550.png)
The Energy Information Administration estimates that homes in the South Atlantic region—from Virginia down to Florida—spend about 30% of their monthly energy costs on space heating. You may be surprised to learn that the region spends more on heating than on air conditioning! As you can tell, heating systems are vital to the comfort and safety of your household and, as a result, make a big impact on your month-to-month costs. Routine maintenance can keep your system healthy, but you need to understand how to recognize the signs that a more significant repair is needed. Here are the most important warning signs:
Your System is Old
Furnaces last about 15-20 years, while heat pumps last about 10-15 years. If your system is getting into that age range, it is time to start shopping for a replacement. As your furnace begins to age and starts to wear down, repair costs will increase. Your monthly savings from a new, more efficient model makes replacement worth it. If you are spending more than 10% of the cost of a new system, on repairing your current heater, you should most likely just buy a replacement.
Uneven Heating
Most furnaces and heat pumps are designed to heat your whole home. If you are walking from the kitchen to your living room, you shouldn’t have to put on a coat. Your heater should warm all of your rooms fairly evenly. Differing temperatures, throughout your home, are a sign that your heating system is faltering and is becoming less efficient. If your system is relatively new, you probably just need a repair; however, if your unit is older, and exhibits this problem, it needs to go.
Noises When You Turn On Your Heater
Your heater is supposed to produce heat, not make a racket. Your furnace may not be the problem, as noises could be coming from loose ductwork. Either way, our trained professionals can diagnose your problem and find a solution.
Rising Bills
As heating units age, they tend to become less efficient due to general wear and tear. Maintenance can help prevent your bills from increasing; yet, it can only do so much for a 20-year-old unit. If your bills unexpectedly spike, there may be a more serious problem that needs to be addressed with an emergency repair.
Routine maintenance can extend the life of your heating system by a couple of years, but eventually, you will need to switch to a newer model. Pay attention to the symptoms of an aging or broken heating system, so you will know when to call for repairs.
Our experts at Dyess Air & Plumbing will handle your replacements, repairs, and maintenance for your HVAC system in South Carolina and Georgia. Give us a call today at (843) 242-0855!