Top Warning Signs You Need a New Furnace in Denver

If you are searching for signs that you need a new furnace, you’ve come to the right place. Denver winters push heating systems hard. Cold nights, dry air, and long run times expose problems fast. A furnace that struggles now will only get worse when temperatures drop further. Knowing what to watch for helps you avoid breakdowns, safety risks, and surprise costs.

How Long Do Furnaces Last?

Many homeowners ask how long do furnaces last before replacement makes sense. The answer depends on use, maintenance, and system type.

Most gas furnaces last 15 to 20 years. Electric units may last closer to 20 years. That assumes regular service and no major installation issues.

In Denver, heavy winter use can shorten that window. A furnace that runs six to eight months a year wears out faster than one used lightly. If your system is older than 15 years, start planning. Even if it still runs, efficiency drops each year. Newer systems can cut heating energy use by 15 to 30 percent compared to older models.

Signs Your Furnace Needs Replacing

Some warning signs are obvious. Others build slowly and get ignored until the system fails. Here are common signs your furnace needs replacing.

• Rising heating bills without changes in usage
  
  
• Uneven heat between rooms
  
  
• Short cycling, where the furnace turns on and off often
  
  
• Loud noises like banging, rattling, or humming
  
  
• Frequent repairs in the same season
  
  
• Yellow pilot light instead of blue
  
  
• Dry air getting worse each winter
  
  

If you notice more than one issue, replacement may be the smarter move. These signs your furnace needs replacing often appear together near the end of a system’s life.

Safety also matters. Cracks in a heat exchanger can allow carbon monoxide leaks. That risk alone justifies replacement.

How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?

Homeowners often delay action because they worry about price. So how much does a new furnace cost in Denver?

Most furnace replacement projects range from $4,500 to $9,000. The final number depends on system size, efficiency rating, and ductwork condition.

Higher efficiency furnaces cost more upfront but reduce monthly bills. In Colorado, energy rebates and tax credits may lower the total cost. A licensed HVAC contractor can review options and explain payback timelines using real numbers, not estimates.

Avoid choosing based on price alone. An undersized or oversized furnace wastes energy and shortens system life.

Furnace Repair vs Replace: A Quick Rule of Thumb

Deciding on furnace repair vs replace does not need to be complicated. Use this quick rule.

If repair costs exceed 50 percent of the cost of furnace replacement, replacement usually makes more sense. Age matters too. Spending thousands on a system near the end of its lifespan rarely pays off.

Also consider reliability. One repair every few years is normal. Multiple service calls in one season point toward replacement.

A trusted HVAC contractor can inspect your system and give you clear options. You should get straight answers, not pressure.

If you are unsure, ask them to show you efficiency loss data or repair history trends. That keeps the decision grounded in facts.

Ignoring warning signs leads to breakdowns during the coldest weeks of the year. Planning ahead gives you control over timing, budget, and system choice. If you are seeing signs you need a new furnace, act early instead of waiting for failure.

If you want an honest assessment, contact us to schedule an inspection. A qualified HVAC contractor can confirm whether repair still makes sense or if furnace replacement is the safer option for your home and comfort.