How Long Does a Furnace Last?

Once upon a time, you or your home’s previous owner carefully and thoughtfully chose a new heating system. But now, that furnace is struggling to keep up and costing you more in energy bills. And once again, you’re left with the decision of which system will be best for your household. As you weigh your options, one of the biggest factors you’re considering is the expected lifespan of the unit.

If you’re wondering how long you can expect a new furnace to last, we’ve got you covered! As furnace installation experts in O’Fallon, MO, we have all the insight into the average lifespans of furnaces and provide tips and advice below.

What Is the Average Furnace Lifespan?

The lifespan of a furnace depends on several factors, including the type of furnace, how well it has been maintained, and the quality of the initial installation. Generally speaking, a well-maintained furnace lasts between 15 to 20 years. However, this number can fluctuate based on usage patterns and maintenance habits.

If your furnace is nearing the upper end of its expected lifespan, you should start considering whether it is better for a repair or a full replacement.

How to Extend Furnace Lifespan

Just like a car, your furnace needs regular attention to keep it running efficiently. While the average furnace lifespan is around 15 to 20 years, you can maximize its longevity with a few simple maintenance habits:

Change the Filter Regularly

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend how long your furnace lasts is by replacing the air filter regularly. A dirty or clogged filter forces the furnace to work harder, leading to unnecessary wear and tear. For most homes, changing the filter every one to three months is ideal.

Schedule Annual Furnace Maintenance

Professional tune-ups keep your electric or gas furnace running efficiently and help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. A trained technician will clean components (such as filters, motors, and heat exchangers), check for leaks, and ensure everything is working correctly. With these furnace maintenance appointments, you can expect years to be added to your furnace’s lifespan.

Keep Vents and Ducts Clean

Blocked or dirty vents can force even high-efficiency furnaces to work harder. When the vents are obstructed, the heater has to use a great deal of energy and resources to push heated air through your home. The excessive wear can take a toll on your unit over time, so regularly check and clean air vents and have your ductwork inspected every few years for proper airflow.

Don’t Overwork Your Furnace

Constantly running your furnace at high temperatures can lead to premature wear. Instead, consider investing in a programmable thermostat to optimize heating cycles and reduce strain on the system.

Address Repairs Promptly

If you notice strange noises, weak airflow, or inconsistent heating, don’t ignore the problem. Addressing small repairs early can prevent larger, costlier breakdowns and extend your furnace’s longevity. Ask our team at Stay Cool Climate Control for a furnace repair whenever you need it — we’re here 24/7!

When Is Furnace Replacement the Smarter Choice?

While maintenance can prolong how long your furnace lasts, there comes a time when replacing it makes more financial and practical sense. Here are a few signs that it’s time for an upgrade:

  • Your Furnace Is Over 15 Years Old: Rather than waiting for an unexpected breakdown in the middle of winter, consider proactive replacement before it fails completely.
  • Your Energy Bills Keep Rising: Older furnaces lose efficiency over time, leading to higher heating costs. If you’ve noticed a significant increase in heating costs, it might be more cost-effective to replace your system with a high-efficiency unit.
  • Frequent Repairs Are Adding Up: If you find yourself calling for repairs multiple times a year, those costs can quickly add up. A general rule of thumb is if a repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new gas or electric furnace, replacement is the better investment.
  • Your Home Isn’t Heating Evenly: If you notice cold spots throughout your home, it may mean you’ve reached the end of your furnace’s life expectancy, and a replacement is likely in your near future.

Need a New Furnace? Trust Stay Cool Climate Control!

If you’re ready to upgrade your furnace, Stay Cool Climate Control is here to help. Our expert technicians will assess your home’s heating needs and recommend the best furnace for your space based on the unit’s annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating and your budget. We will then remove the old unit and install the new furnace, ensuring proper setup, wiring, and ventilation. Before we leave, we will test your unit to guarantee it is running efficiently and safely.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation for a new furnace! We’ll get it set up properly and provide ongoing maintenance to help extend its lifespan.

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