Your centralized heating system gets quite a workout each winter. And like any appliance, your heater is bound to experience some wear and tear over the years. Residential central heating systems have a limited lifespan, after which they become inefficient and ineffective. Knowing the warning signs of an aging or failing heater can help you avoid being left in the cold and allow you to budget for a replacement before it's an emergency. Not sure if it's time for an upgrade? Below are signs that indicate it may be time to start shopping for heating replacement solutions.

1. Your Energy Bills Are Going Up Each Year

Older heaters tend to lose efficiency as they age, which means they have to work harder (and use more energy) to maintain comfortable temperatures throughout your home. If you suspect this is the case, contact an HVAC contractor to take a look at your system. They'll be able to tell you definitively if a heater replacement is needed or if there are other options available, such as adding insulation or duct sealing. 

2. You're Constantly Doing Heater Repairs

If you find yourself making more and more repairs on an annual basis (or if those repairs are becoming increasingly expensive), it may make more financial sense, in the long run, to just replace the unit instead of continually paying for costly repairs.

3. Some Rooms In Your Home Are Too Hot/Cold

Another common sign of heating problems is uneven temperatures throughout your home—specifically, rooms that always seem too hot or too cold, no matter how much you fiddle with the thermostat. In cases like these, inadequate insulation or ductwork issues are often to blame. 

But if these aren't the root cause of the problem (or if you've already addressed them with no improvement), your current heater may be too small or too large for your home's needs. Call a heating replacement solutions provider to assess a suitably-sized heater for your home. 

4. Your Furnace Makes Strange Noises When It's Running

If you start hearing strange noises from your furnace—rumbling, banging, popping, hissing, etc.—it's time to call in a heating technician for assistance. These noises often indicate serious problems within the unit and should not be ignored. 

5. You've Had Extensive Water Damage

Water damage from leaking pipes can be one of the most expensive problems to fix. It's important to note that continuing to use a furnace that has been damaged by water could put your family at risk, so don't hesitate to reach out to a professional contractor for assistance as soon as possible.

Contact a company like Kirkwood Heating and Cooling to learn more.