As a homeowner, one of the biggest investments that you’re going to have to routinely make is a heating system. The most popular type of heating system is the furnace. Take a look at how long furnaces last, the key factors influencing their lifespan, and when you should think about procuring a replacement.
Types of Furnaces and Their Estimated Lifespans
Furnaces are designed to run on one of four different types of fuel. These fuels include natural gas, heating oil, electricity, and propane. The type of fuel that your furnace uses will have a significant impact on its overall longevity. Furnaces that run on heating oil, propane, or natural gas have a typical lifespan of between 15 and 20 years. On the other hand, furnaces that run on electricity tend to last longer, with lifespans ranging between 20 and 30 years.
It’s important to note that these lifespans are based on manufacturer estimates and assume optimal operating conditions. Numerous factors, which include the quality of installation, environmental conditions, and overall usage, can influence how long a furnace actually lasts. Understanding these variables can help you better plan for your furnace replacement and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Maintenance and Prompt Repair Service
One of the most obvious factors that is going to influence the overall longevity of your furnace is how much maintenance and care it regularly receives. Heating systems that are well-maintained and receive prompt repairs consistently outlast those that don’t.
It’s essential to prioritize annual maintenance service from a licensed HVAC technician. During these visits, the technician will clean and inspect your system to ensure it is operating efficiently and identify any issues before they escalate. Equally important is scheduling prompt repairs whenever you notice problems such as uneven heating, strange noises, or unusual odors coming from your furnace. Delaying repairs can often lead to more extensive damage and higher costs down the line.
Additionally, keeping up with regular filter changes is critical to ensuring your furnace doesn’t have to overwork. A clean filter allows your system to circulate air efficiently, and this reduces unnecessary strain and helps to extend its lifespan.
Thermostat Setting and Household Insulation
A couple of other factors that are going to affect the overall lifespan of your furnace are your thermostat settings and the insulation level of your home. Setting your thermostat too high, such as at 75 degrees Fahrenheit or above, forces your heating system to work harder and for longer periods to maintain the desired temperature. Over time, this excessive wear and tear can significantly shorten the lifespan of your furnace.
Similarly, poor insulation in your home can make the job of your system much more difficult. If warm air escapes through poorly insulated walls, attics, or windows, your heating equipment must work overtime to compensate for the heat loss. Ensuring your home has adequate insulation that meets or exceeds the recommended R-value for your region can help your furnace operate more efficiently and extend its overall lifespan.
Appropriate Sizing
One other factor that can affect the lifespan of your furnace is its sizing compared to your home. If you install a furnace that is undersized for your space, it will struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature. This results in longer run times, increased energy consumption, and unnecessary stress on the system, and this will shorten its lifespan.
On the other hand, an oversized furnace can lead to frequent on-and-off cycling, which also causes premature wear and reduces efficiency. When upgrading to a new furnace, it’s absolutely imperative that you have an HVAC technician determine the appropriate size and heating capacity to ensure the system matches the needs of your home.
Frequent Repairs
One of the clearest signs that your furnace needs replacement is frequent breakdowns. If you find yourself calling for repair service every year or even multiple times a year, it’s time to evaluate whether a replacement is a better option. This is especially true if your furnace is more than 15 years old and repair costs are nearing or exceeding half the cost of a new unit.
Repeated repairs not only indicate that your furnace is nearing its end, but they also strain your budget. Investing in a new furnace can save you from the stress and expense of constant repairs while providing you with more reliable heating.
Poor Operating Efficiency
As your furnace ages, its efficiency naturally declines. In the later years of its lifespan, you may notice that your home takes longer to reach the desired temperature or that it no longer heats evenly. This reduced performance often coincides with higher utility bills, as your system consumes more energy to deliver the same results.
It’s worth noting that furnaces 10 years or older are far less efficient than modern models. Newer furnaces are designed with advanced technology to deliver better energy efficiency, and this will help to lower your heating bills significantly. Upgrading to a high-efficiency model can make a noticeable difference in both your comfort and energy costs.
Visible Corrosion and Cracking
Another key indicator that it may be time to replace your furnace is visible corrosion or cracking. While furnace components are coated to resist corrosion, this protective layer wears away over time, and this will expose the metal to moisture. Corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of your unit and compromise its safety.
Cracks, especially in the heat exchanger, pose a more serious concern, as they can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. If you notice any visible signs of corrosion or damage, it’s essential to consult a professional technician immediately to assess the safety of your furnace.
When to Schedule Furnace Replacement Service
Ideally, you should replace your furnace before it completely fails. Scheduling a replacement at a convenient time allows you to avoid the stress of dealing with a malfunctioning system during the winter months when heating is most critical. August and September are particularly good months for replacement, as HVAC professionals tend to have lighter workloads during this transitional period.
Scheduling a replacement during the fall also gives you time to research and compare furnace models. You won’t feel rushed into making a decision, and you’ll have the opportunity to evaluate whether a high-efficiency model fits your budget and needs. Additionally, many manufacturers and HVAC companies offer seasonal discounts on both equipment and installation services during this time, and this will help you save money on your upgrade.
Financing options are another key consideration. Replacing your furnace during a planned timeframe allows you to explore favorable financing terms, which can make the process more manageable and less stressful.
Reliable Furnace Replacement Service
Bobby L. Greene Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Co. offers reliable furnace replacement service to the Shreveport, LA community. Our team of experienced technicians can help you choose the right system for your home and provide professional installation to ensure optimal performance. In addition to furnace replacement, we offer plumbing, drain, sewer, heating, air conditioning, commercial plumbing, and HVAC maintenance services. Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment with one of our friendly and knowledgeable technicians.
