Is It Time to Replace My Heater?

Serving Families Throughout Clackamas

/
/
Is It Time to Replace My Heater?
May 8, 2023

When temperatures start to drop during the winter, the performance of your heating system is critical. Like all things mechanical, your HVAC unit will eventually break down. So why wait for it to bite the dust during a cold snap? Watch for these red flags that it’s time to upgrade now.

Steep Utility Bills

Your outdated heater could be the blame for a steep utility bill. As a heating unit ages, it gradually becomes less efficient. This will be reflected in your heating costs.

Changing it out for a high-efficiency heating system will improve comfort while being more affordable to operate. Modern furnaces have an annual fuel utilization efficiency, or AFUE, of 90 percent and higher, which means they only lose about 10 percent of the heat they generate. Older systems have AFUE of around 60.

Noisy Performance

Heaters are designed to operate quietly. When you notice strange noises, your heater is likely on its last leg. Some of the potential problems include a worn motor bearing, frayed blower belt, dirty burners. These sounds can be remedied through routine maintenance and minor repairs, but if your system is between 15 and 20 years old, it might make sense to go ahead and replace it.

Cold Spots in Your Home

Your furnace is designed to distribute heat evenly throughout your home. Inconsistent temperatures could mean that it’s no longer up to the task.

Requires Frequent Repairs

A furnace will require the most repairs during the last several years of its life. At a certain point, it’s more feasible to replace it. Here’s a good rule of thumb: if the cost of the repair is half the price of a new unit, spring for the upgrade. You’ll enjoy a more reliable system, improved comfort and lower operating costs.

For all of your heating needs, contact A-Temp Heating, Cooling & Electrical at (503) 694-3396.

Categories:
Back to Blog Page

5 Star Rated

Quality Service That Will Make You Smile

"Helpful, friendly, and trustworthy service."

A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical came recommended from a friend who is a current inspector. I've used them for years for furnace and AC maintenance. Their customer service is excellent—helpful, friendly, and persistent in scheduling my maintenance. I appreciate that they've never pushed to replace my old furnace but instead helped me decide when to repair or replace without being pushy about sales. Finding trustworthy repair folks is hard, and I highly recommend them. You won't be disappointed.

- Sara T.
"Above and beyond care for customers."

A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical goes above and beyond to take care of their customers. I've been a customer for years and am impressed with the technicians and office staff. The fact that this is a family business is also a plus. Thank you.

- Marolyn H
"Clean and professional work."

A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical did a wonderful job. They were on time, wore shoe coverings, and worked diligently. They replaced our air filter and an electrical part under warranty, explaining everything clearly. The work was clean and professional, and the team was congenial and pleasant.

- Bob T.
"Polite, positive, and very courteous."

Everyone we’ve dealt with has been polite, positive, and very courteous. A-TEMP Heating, Cooling & Electrical quickly replaced our furnace during the coldest part of a snowy winter. Other companies couldn’t get out for 1-2 weeks, but A-TEMP assessed it the same day and replaced it in 2 days. Can’t say enough great things about this company!

- Bob T.
view all reviews

Serving All Members of Your Family

Family is built into our company name. For over 50 years, our family-owned & operated HVAC business has taken care of our neighbors. We focus on care for our team so they can focus on care for our customers.

contact us