When you move into a new house, 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 seeing 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 needs to be on the list of potential to-dos. It plays a critical role in home comfort, so learning a little bit more about your system is very valuable.
As long as they are operating without issues, we don’t pay a lot of care to our furnaces. But as soon as it goes out, or causes challenges, we absolutely notice. That’s why it’s a good idea to find out how old your furnace is. Then you have an understanding of what you might deal with down the road. And this doesn’t just pertain to homeowners moving into a new space. Anyone who isn’t clear how old their furnace is should take time and figure it out.
How can you identify how old your furnace is?
Your furnace should have a sticker located anyplace on the exterior or interior paneling. If you don’t see a sticker with the model and serial number on the exterior, 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 to keep for your records. Then head to the manufacturer’s website or search for guides on how to determine the manufacturing date. You could try searching for “find manufacturing date of YOUR BRAND furnace.” The serial number typically provides insight into the age of your system, but it does vary among brands. For example, for some brands, the first four numbers indicate the year and month it was manufactured. In the photo below, the serial number shows this particular system was made in July 2015.
If you are still having challenges, you can communicate with the manufacturer directly, or contact Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling for assistance.
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 improve efficiency and overall operations. Newer models often have higher energy efficiency ratings and you’ll definitely benefit from the advancements in technology over the past several years.
You don’t have to rely on age alone, there are other signs that indicate it might be time to shop for a new furnace. Some of these signs include:
- Surge in energy costs without major adjustments to the thermostat.
- More regular and costly repairs to fix the furnace.
- Decrease in home comfort levels—you never seem to feel warm enough.
If you have concerns about whether it’s time for a furnace replacement, or if you want one of the most experienced technicians in Des Moines to offer some guidance, we’re here for you. You can reach us at 515-207-6569 or book an appointment with us online.