So, you installed a new gas furnace a few years back and wondering how long it will last.
Quite simply, there’s no simple answer to the question “How long does a furnace last?”. Gas furnace lifespans depend on multiple factors including the quality of the furnace, maintenance intervals, and even local weather patterns.
Keeping a few critical points in mind will help you make the right decision about replacing your furnace.
How Does a Gas Furnace Work?
A gas furnace uses natural gas or propane to heat the air which, in turn, is distributed throughout your home. A furnace can be a single-stage, two-stage, or modulating furnace with adjustable heating capabilities. Learning about the key components of a gas furnace will help you make the right decisions about a gas furnace replacement.
Here’s how gas furnaces work:
- The burning of fuel takes place in the burners of the combustion chamber, and the hot gases are passed to the heat exchanger.
- A blower motor transfers the heated air into the supply duct and the exhaust gases are channeled out through the flue.
- An air filter removes dust and debris from the air before it enters the supply duct.
What Is the Average Life Expectancy of a Gas Furnace?
While the average life of a gas furnace is between 15 to 20 years, there are a few factors that affect the exact furnace life expectancy. Take a look.
Furnace Size
The size of a furnace should match the square footage of your home and the climate in your area. When a furnace isn’t appropriately sized, it lowers the lifespan due to the additional stress on the components.
Make and Model
A high-end furnace will be more expensive, but the better quality ensures a longer life. On the other hand, cheaper units will not last as long. In other words, a higher price and better quality will lead to a higher average life of a furnace.
Installation
A professional installation by a qualified technician will improve the lifespan of a furnace. Poor installation may lead to issues like fuel line leakages, damaged seals, and condensation.
Maintenance
An unclean furnace will have to work harder to deliver the same amount of heat. It will also be less efficient and consume more fuel. Regular maintenance of the components in the right manner will improve the lifespan.
Should I Replace My 25-Year-Old Furnace?
That depends on the performance of the system and the indoor air quality. As the furnace ages, the components become less capable of managing humidity levels in the air. Humid air can trap toxic elements resulting in poor indoor air quality.
In worse cases, an older system can start generating carbon monoxide. Cleaning the blower and ductwork and replacing the air filters will not solve the problem in such cases.
Then again, If the furnace needs to operate more frequently to deliver the same level of heat, it is a sign of decreasing efficiency. Noise is another sign of serious mechanical issues in an aging gas furnace. In such situations, considering furnace replacement may be the most viable solution to ensure optimal indoor air quality and efficient heating performance.
Here are some furnace noises that you need to watch out for.
- A thumping or grinding noise while starting or switching off can indicate issues with the blower motor.
- Frequent banging or rumbling sounds indicate operational issues in the combustion chamber.
- Clicking sounds can indicate issues with the ignition system or the compressor.
How to Increase the Lifespan of a Gas Furnace?
The two best ways to increase a gas furnace’s lifespan are to ensure proper installation and take good care of it through regular maintenance. Apart from a regular thorough checkup of the system, keep the air filters clean at all times.
In case you detect any issues with the furnace, get it checked by a professional and make the necessary repairs immediately. Any delay in making furnace repairs is asking for trouble.
It is also important to operate the furnace at a consistent temperature as much as possible to decrease the load on the components. Another good step is to use a programmable thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature, which will help in optimizing the furnace’s lifespan.
Choose Southwest Heating & Cooling for Your Furnace Replacement
With a professional team dedicated to ensuring customer satisfaction, we are ready to ensure that your furnace runs efficiently at all times. Our team service furnaces of all makes and takes every necessary step to improve your indoor air quality.
Anytime you feel that your furnace needs a thorough checkup, contact Southwest Heating and Cooling for your furnace needs!