In order for your heater to function correctly, all of its parts need to be working as they should. If something breaks or malfunctions, you’ll need to be able to pick up on the warning signs. Some of these signs may be more obvious than others, but none of them should be ignored.

Here are some of the most common signs that your heater isn’t functioning as well as it should:

High Energy Bills—If your energy bills have been higher than normal (and your usage has stayed the same), it means your heater is not working as well as it should.
Strange Noises—Your heater should operate quietly and efficiently. If you notice any banging, popping, or humming noises, something isn’t working correctly.
No Heat—The most obvious sign that your heater is not working right is a lack of heat throughout your home.

With any of these issues, you’ll either need heater repair or replacement. But how do you know which one is your best option? Your HVAC technician can determine which one is in your best interest after a thorough inspection of your heating system. Here are some of the reasons why each one might be necessary:

Heater Replacement

Most of the time, a heater replacement has to do with the price of a repair or the age of the heating system. Here’s when a heater replacement may be needed:

Age—If your heater is more than 10-15 years old, even if it seems to be working properly, it may need to be replaced. Older heaters may no longer be covered by a warranty, and they are likely not as efficient as newer models. In many cases, the amount you’ll save on energy bills will make up for the cost of a new heater.
High Cost to Repair—When a price estimate for a repair is close to what it would cost to replace the entire unit, you’re better off replacing it.
Frequent Repairs—If you are having to pay for heater repairs too often, you may want to consider replacing your heater.
Safety Reasons—Should something malfunction and the system is no longer safe to use (think: gas leaks), it may be time to replace it.
Energy Efficiency—Not all heaters are created equally. You may want to invest in a new heater if your current one is not operating as efficiently as you’d like.

Heater Repair

A lot of heater issues can be easily identified and fixed. Some of the following issues can be corrected quickly and at little cost to you:

Tripped Circuit Breaker
Clogged Filter—You should be changing your filters at least once every 4-6 weeks. If a filter is too dirty/clogged, it could stop your whole system from working correctly.
Broken Fan Belt—This is often what causes your heater to make strange noises.
Temperature Inconsistencies—If certain rooms in your house are too hot or too cold, it could be an issue with the thermostat or the way the air is balanced.

Do you need help determining whether a heater repair or replacement is the best option for you? Our experts can help you weigh the pros and cons of each one to make the decision easier. Click below to learn more about our heating services.

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