When Should I Repair vs. Replace My Furnace?

October 21st, 2019
How many years do furnaces usually last? A well-maintained furnace typically lasts about 15 to 20 years, although actual lifespan varies with equipment quality, installation, usage and maintenance. As a furnace ages, frequent repairs, rising energy costs, uneven heating or major component failure can make replacement more economical. WeatherMakers furnace technicians say they face one tough question on a regular basis when they’re out on their service calls: “Should I continue to repair my furnace, or should I just replace it?” When it’s obvious, the answer is simple, but when a furnace is on the fence, it’s a hard question to answer. We’ve pulled together some information from our experience that we hope will help you as a homeowner decide when to repair vs. replace your furnace, and more importantly, feel good about your decision. Read More

Why Does My Furnace Smell?

October 15th, 2019
Why does my furnace smell? A brief dusty smell when a furnace first starts for the season can come from dust burning off, but persistent burning, electrical, gas or rotten-egg odours can indicate a problem that needs attention. If you smell gas or suspect a dangerous combustion issue, leave the area and follow emergency guidance rather than continuing to run the furnace. What Do Furnace Odours Indicate? You know that smell the first time your home furnace fires up--a little bit dusty, a little bit … unnerving? Honestly, that hot dust smell upon first fire-up is OK--nothing to be worried about if it goes away. Your fan has been sitting idle for a couple weeks to a couple months and some dust has settled in the works. It’ll blow clear and diminish in minutes. It’s the other smells that you want to use as an early warning sign that your furnace needs an adjustment or repair. Sniff something weird or unrelenting, take action immediately. Read More

What Does a Furnace Tune-up Include

September 23rd, 2019
What is included in a furnace tune-up? A furnace tune-up typically includes inspecting the heat exchanger, burners, ignition system, blower, electrical connections, safety controls, venting and air filter, along with checking overall heating performance. The exact checklist varies by system, but the goal is to identify safety, airflow and efficiency problems before they lead to a breakdown. Why Do I Need a Furnace Tune-Up and Inspection? Aside from the art on your walls or the cars in your garage, your HVAC system is likely the most expensive equipment you have in your home. Unlike the art and just like your car, your furnace needs a tune-up and look-over every year.  Read More

Time for a New Furnace?

November 14th, 2018
When should you replace your furnace? You should consider replacing a furnace when it is approaching the end of its expected life, needs frequent or expensive repairs, heats unevenly or has become noticeably less efficient. Age alone does not determine replacement, so compare the condition and repair cost of the existing furnace with the cost and benefits of a new system. There are many reasons to get a new furnace. If your furnace is old or broken, WeatherMakers has a solution for you. Our skilled technicians can perform a furnace inspection or install a new furnace quickly to ensure maximum comfort for your family. Or maybe you’re tired of paying high utility bills? You may want to upgrade your furnace to reduce your heating costs -- a new furnace can cut your energy costs by up to 30%! Read More
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