When you move into a new residence, there is a lot to take in and think about as you get settled in. You’re getting to know all of the new appliances and different spaces. For some homeowners, it also means considering what upgrades or updates need to be made at some point. It may not always be top of mind, but your heating and cooling system must be on the list of potential to-dos. It plays a vital role in home comfort, so knowing a little bit more about your system is very beneficial.
As long as they are running without problems, we don’t pay a lot of thought to our furnaces. But as soon as it goes out, or causes challenges, we definitely notice. That’s why it’s a great idea to find out how old your furnace is. Then you have an understanding of what you might deal with later on. And this doesn’t just apply to homeowners moving into a new space. Anyone who isn’t certain how old their furnace is should take time and figure it out.
How can you find out how old your furnace is?
Your furnace should have a sticker located someplace on the exterior or interior paneling. If you don’t see a sticker with the model and serial number on the outer panels, find where the paneling opens up and check if it’s located inside that door.
Write down—or take a photo of—the serial number for reference. Then go to the manufacturer’s website or search for guidelines on how to determine the manufacturing date. You might want to try searching for “find manufacturing date of YOUR BRAND furnace.” The serial number normally provides insight into the age of your system, but it does change among brands. For example, for some brands, the first four numbers mean the year and month it was manufactured. In the photo below, the serial number indicates this particular system was made in July 2015.
If you are still having problems, you can reach out to the manufacturer directly, or contact James Heating & A/C, Inc for support.
Why is the age of your furnace significant?
Typically, when you’ve had a furnace about 15 years, it’s time to start shopping for a replacement system to help increase efficiency and overall operations. Newer models often have higher energy efficiency ratings and you’ll definitely benefit from the advancements in technology over the recent years.
You don’t have to rely on how old your equipment is, there are other indications that it might be time to search for a new furnace. A few of these signs include:
- Surge in energy costs without major adjustments to the thermostat.
- More recurrent and costly repairs to fix the furnace.
- Reduction in home comfort levels—you never seem to feel warm enough.
If you have conflicting thoughts about whether it’s time for a furnace replacement, or if you want one of the most experienced technicians in Lexington to offer some guidance, we’re here for you. You can reach us at 336-853-6070 or book an appointment with us online.