How Long Do Furnaces Last?
The heating system is a critically important piece of equipment that provides a comfortable and healthy environment for your home. The average lifespan of most furnaces is 15 to 20 years. However, the amount of time that a heater lasts can vary greatly.
It is time to think about replacing a furnace after 15 or 16 years of use. Once a heating system gets towards the end of its lifespan, it is likely to start showing signs of aging.
An older furnace will need repairs more frequently. Although an old unit might still work, that doesn’t mean it will operate efficiently. It will struggle with keeping your house comfortable and warm. You might also notice cold and hot spots. Furthermore, your home may be dustier than it usually is.
Home Heating: What Is The Lifespan Of A Home Furnace?
Contents
The heating system in your home will start to give warning signs that it is time for a replacement. When you know what the indicators are, you will have enough time to find the right heating system to best suit your needs.
It never is a good idea to wait until you have a complete breakdown and it is too late. If you have a heater that is failing, a snowy and freezing night is not the best time to assess your system. Also, it is never a good idea to make a major investment when you are under the pressure and stress of having a malfunctioning heating system.
It is an excellent idea to prepare ahead of a desperate situation. With the proper information, you will be able to make the right decision. The following are some of the main indications that it might be time for you to consider having your heating system replaced.
How A Furnace’s Age Plays A Significant Role
A good place to start is to compare how old your heating system is with the national average, which is 15-20 years. If your heater is close in age or older than the average age, then that is a sign that you should begin to consider replacing it.
You don’t want to wait until it is an urgent situation since that won’t give you enough time to make a good decision and find the best replacement.
It is much better to have your furnace replaced as a planned home improvement rather than as an emergency after your heater has already failed or is not functioning correctly.
The typical life expectancy for a forced air furnace varies depending on the specific environment that it is operating in. That is why it is critical to have your heating system serviced regularly by an experienced and qualified technician. They will have all of the necessary qualifications to be able to correctly evaluate your heater’s condition and offer you any necessary recommendations.
Increased Energy Costs That Are Unexpected
As a furnace continues to age, it often starts to lose its efficiency. This aspect is especially true if it has not been maintained properly over time. The heater could end up having to run for a more extended period to provide the same amount of heat, causing your energy bills to increase. That can be counterproductive since the extra money that you have to spend on your higher utility bills could be better spent on purchasing a new furnace that is much more energy efficient and can provide optimal comfort. Furthermore, as a system ages, it will require more repairs. Instead, by planning ahead, you can save money on repairs by investing in a new system.
Heating System Issues: Cracked Heat Exchanger
As time goes by, the risk of the heater exchanger developing cracks increases exponentially. If carbon monoxide gets inside of the exchanger, it might leak into the house without you noticing it.
Signs of carbon monoxide exposure include:
- disorientation
- nausea
- flu-like symptoms
- frequent headaches
- a burning sensation in your nose or eyes
If you or anyone in your household is experiencing any of those symptoms, air your house out by opening a window in the furnace room and call a professional immediately. Heater exchanger cracks tend to occur unnoticed, so that is why it is very important to have your heating system maintained to reduce the risk of this occurring.
It is critical to have your furnace professionally maintained in the fall every year to prolong your heating system’s life expectancy. Annual tune-ups and cleanings will ensure that the heater, as well as all of its mechanical parts, keep operating smoothly and efficiently so that your home stays comfortable and healthy. If your furnace is well-maintained, it will last much longer than the same heating system that is not serviced regularly.
Conclusion
McAllister Energy is a trustworthy HVAC company that can properly service your heating system. Our NATE certified technicians will do an outstanding job for you.
Here at McAllister Energy, we provide first-class HVAC system replacements, installations, tune-ups, and repairs. Our experts have all of the necessary knowledge, tools, and skills to provide you with the most affordable and quality services. Contact us today. We will be very happy to assist you. We offer free, in-home estimates.
Contact McAllister Energy today, and we will be happy to assist you. Contact us now at (856) 665-4545 to find out more!