Temperatures in Onalaska, Texas can often reach lows of around 40° Fahrenheit in the winter months. Although it’s rare, it can even get below freezing on particularly cold days.
It’s crucial to have your furnace in working order to make sure your HVAC system is ready for winter. While replacing your furnace system can be costly, it can often save you money in the long run.
As the machinery in your heating system wears down over time, it becomes less energy efficient. With enough maintenance issues, you may need to replace your HVAC system altogether to keep your home warm and save on your energy bill.
There’s no convenient time to replace your furnace, but some times of the year may be easier than others. Read on to learn the best time of year for a furnace replacement and what to look out for!
Furnaces: An Overview
If you aren’t well-versed in HVAC, you may be wondering what a furnace is and how it works.
In the United States, roughly two-thirds of homes use central heat and air. A central HVAC system typically uses one indoor unit and furnace as well as a system of ductwork that connects to each room.
A furnace, which runs on natural gas, oil, electricity, or propane, produces hot air that a fan forces into the ducts. The warm air then comes out of the vents and keeps each room warm.
Natural gas is the most commonly used fuel source for heaters, but each type of system can run into similar issues that may indicate you need a furnace replacement.
Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement
Replacing your furnace is a big decision, and it’s important to seek professional advice before making any big purchases. There are a few symptoms you should watch out for that may mean your furnace needs replacing.
Insufficient Heat
The most common sign of an issue with your furnace is that your home isn’t staying warm enough no matter how high you set the thermostat. Sometimes, this is a sign that your thermostat is having issues.
Your thermostat detects the temperature, then switches the furnace on and off to adjust how warm or cool it is. If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it may need a battery change or a replacement.
If your thermostat is working properly and your home still isn’t warm enough, the furnace is the most likely problem. Have a contractor inspect your system to determine if you need repairs or replacement.
Restricted Airflow
You might notice that when you turn the heat on, the vents produce very little warm air or no air at all. There are a few simple things that could cause this issue, so check your system if you’re experiencing restricted airflow.
Most often, restricted airflow is the result of a clogged filter or duct. Over time, ducts and air filters can get congested with dirt, dust, and debris.
If enough blockage builds up, it can stop your heating system from forcing warm air through the vents.
If your ducts and air filter look clean, it may be that the furnace got switched off. The furnace disconnect switch resembles an ordinary light switch, so it’s possible someone accidentally flipped it.
You should get your furnace diagnosed if flipping the disconnect switch has no effect.
Loud Noises or Odors
Symptoms like noises and smells can sometimes go unnoticed if the heater is in a secluded area of the home. It’s a good idea to look your system over from time to time to see if you notice anything odd.
Pounding and grinding noises are often an indicator of a mechanical issue with the furnace. It could be something as simple as a broken belt or faulty piece of hardware, but it may also mean your furnace is reaching the end of its lifespan.
On the other hand, your heating system may give off strange smells. A burning odor for a short time is normal after not running the heat for a few months, but if it persists, it can point to furnace issues.
More foul odors, like rotten egg smells, usually point to a gas leak, which can come from a crack in the furnace body.
Best Time of Year to Replace Your Furnace
You may think that the best time to replace your furnace is when it starts getting cold. However, there are benefits to replacing your furnace in the spring or summer when it’s still warm out.
Heating equipment is usually not in demand during the hot parts of the year. As a result, you usually get service more quickly and might even get a lower price.
Waiting until November when it’s already cold out could mean days or weeks of waiting for heating components. Spring and early fall are the best times to get your furnace replaced since you won’t be relying on your HVAC system as much.
While summer may seem like a good time for furnace replacement, it can be as bad as waiting for the winter. Getting any HVAC service, even heating repair, means your system won’t be running to keep your home cool while technicians test your heater.
Keep Your Home Warm This Winter
The best time to have your furnace replaced in Texas is during months with mild temperatures, like early spring and early fall. You should avoid having any HVAC equipment replaced when it’s extremely hot or cold outside.
Whether your heating issues are easy to fix or require a complete overhaul, we’ve got you covered. Best Air Conditioning and Heating has over 35 years of experience helping Onalaska customers with HVAC repair and replacement.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly!
