Signs You Need a New Furnace: When to Repair or Replace Heating System

As Northeast Ohio’s winter continues to bring freezing temperatures, your furnace is working overtime to keep your home warm. But how do you know when it’s time to replace your furnace instead of scheduling yet another repair?

At Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners make the best decisions for their comfort and energy efficiency. Here are the key signs that indicate it may be time for a new furnace installation.

1) Your Furnace is 15+ Years Old

The average lifespan of a furnace is between 15-20 years, depending on maintenance and usage. If your unit is approaching this age, it may no longer operate at peak efficiency. Even if it still heats your home, an aging system works harder, increasing energy bills and the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Pro Tip: If your furnace is over 15 years old and repairs are becoming frequent, consider investing in a high-efficiency new furnace replacement to save money in the long run.

2) Your Energy Bills Keep Increasing

Have you noticed a spike in your heating costs? Older furnaces lose efficiency over time, requiring more energy to maintain the same comfort level. If your gas or electric bill keeps rising despite normal usage, your furnace may be struggling to keep up.

A new energy-efficient furnace installation can significantly reduce your monthly heating costs while keeping your home warm and comfortable.

3) Frequent Repairs Are Adding Up

If you’ve had multiple furnace repairs in the past couple of years, it may be time to stop patching up an old system and start fresh with a new HVAC unit.

Ask yourself:
✔️ Have I had two or more furnace repairs in the last year?
✔️ Are repair costs adding up to 50% or more of the cost of a new system?

If the answer is yes, a new furnace is likely the smarter investment. At Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer expert furnace installation services, ensuring you get a reliable, energy-efficient system that lasts for years.

4) Strange Noises or Smells

While some furnace noises are normal, banging, rattling, or squealing sounds can indicate serious issues.
Banging: Delayed ignition or burner issues
Rattling: Loose or failing components
Squealing: Belt or motor problems

Unusual odors—like a persistent burning smell—could also mean your furnace is overheating or experiencing electrical issues. If you notice any of these warning signs, call Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning for a furnace inspection before a minor issue turns into a costly breakdown.

Need a New Furnace? Call Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning!

If your furnace is showing any of these signs, don’t wait for an emergency breakdown on the coldest day of the year. A new furnace installation ensures:
✔️ Reliable heating for your home
✔️ Lower energy bills with improved efficiency
✔️ Peace of mind knowing your system won’t fail in freezing temps

At Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been serving Northeast Ohio homeowners for over 20 years, providing expert furnace installation, repair, and maintenance services. Our team is dedicated to honest recommendations and quality service, ensuring you get the right HVAC solution for your home.

📞 Call us today at (440) 748-6100 or visit our contact us page to schedule a furnace evaluation and installation quote. Stay warm this winter with Viccarone Heating & Air Conditioning!