When to Replace Your Furnace?
Whole home humidifiers use a water panel to infuse the air with moisture before circulating it through you
There are several signs that indicate it may be time to replace your furnace:
- Age: If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement. Furnaces typically last between 15 and 20 years, and an older furnace may be less efficient and may need more repairs.
- Frequent breakdowns: If you’re constantly having to repair your furnace, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new, more reliable model.
- Increased energy bills: An aging furnace may be less efficient, which can result in higher energy bills. If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your heating bills, it may be a sign that your furnace is no longer operating efficiently.
- Uneven heating: If some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold, it may be a sign that your furnace is no longer able to distribute heat evenly.
- Strange noises: If your furnace is making strange noises, such as banging, popping, or rattling, it may be a sign that it’s time for a replacement.
- Yellow pilot light: A yellow pilot light can indicate that there is a problem with your furnace’s combustion system, which may be a sign that it’s time for a replacement.
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to replace your furnace, a professional HVAC technician can inspect your system and make a recommendation. They can also help you choose a new furnace that meets your heating needs and budget.
r home. The water panel is not a permanent component, and needs to be replaced on a regular basis. Over time, the water panel becomes clogged with minerals and debris from your water source. In homes with hard water, it’s often necessary to change the water panel more frequently. Do it in the fall before you begin using your whole home humidifier for the season, and check it throughout the winter to determine if another change is needed. Steps for changing your humidifier’s water panel:
Steps for changing your humidifier’s water panel:
- Turn off power to your furnace.
- Locate the panel cover on the outside of your humidifier.
- Slide out the enclosure that holds the humidifier water panel.
- Remove the old humidifier water panel from the enclosure. Dispose of the old panel.
- Insert a new humidifier water panel into the enclosure.
- Make sure the enclosure is inserted securely into the humidifier.
- Close or replace the panel.
- Power up your furnace.
If you are uncomfortable performing this humidifier maintenance checklist, call your local HVAC contractor to perform the maintenance your unit needs to operate correctly this season. The best time to have this performed is when you schedule your heating system’s preventative maintenance tune-up in the fall.
Many homeowners rely on portable humidifiers to add moisture to the air in certain areas throughout the home. These types of humidifiers require more frequent maintenance than whole home humidifiers. Use our portable humidifier maintenance checklist to care for your units this winter:
Get Humidifier Help on Heating & Cooling
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