A furnace is a major investment in your home, keeping you warm during the coldest of winter months. And like any appliance, it has a finite lifespan. Understanding how long a furnace typically lasts and knowing when it may be time to replace yours can save you from sudden breakdowns and costly repairs.

Read on as we explore the average lifespan of a furnace, signs that it may be time for a replacement, and tips for extending its life.

How Long Does a Furnace Typically Last?

On average, a well-maintained furnace can last around 15 years. However, this can vary depending on several factors, including the type of furnace, how often it is serviced, and how well it’s maintained.

• Gas furnaces typically last between 15 to 20 years. These are the most common type and are usually the most durable when properly maintained.
• Electric furnaces can last a bit longer, often up to 30 years. Since they don’t have as many moving parts and rely on electric heat elements rather than a combustion process, electric furnaces tend to wear down less quickly.
• Oil furnaces generally last 15 to 20 years but require more regular maintenance compared to gas models, which can impact their overall lifespan.

Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?

Even with proper maintenance, every furnace will eventually wear out. Here are several key signs that it might be time to replace your furnace rather than repair it:

• Age of the Furnace: If your furnace is approaching or has surpassed the 15-year mark, it’s worth considering a replacement, especially if it’s no longer functioning as efficiently as it once did. As furnaces age, they become less efficient, and parts begin to wear out, making repairs more costly.
• Rising Energy Bills: Over time, furnaces lose their ability to heat your home evenly and effectively, forcing them to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. If your furnace is costing you more in energy bills, replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient model can save you money in the long run.
• Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself calling a technician regularly for furnace repairs, it may be time to replace the unit. While occasional repairs are normal, frequent breakdowns or expensive repairs are a sign that your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan.
• Uneven Heating: If certain rooms in your home are colder than others or you notice fluctuations in temperature throughout your house, your furnace may not be distributing heat properly. This could be due to a faulty blower, a clogged duct system, or an aging furnace that’s no longer able to heat your home evenly.
• Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light: A yellow or flickering pilot light is a potential indicator of incomplete combustion, which could be a sign of a gas leak or other safety concerns. If you notice this, it’s crucial to have your furnace inspected immediately. While it might be possible to repair, consistent issues with the pilot light in an aging furnace often point to the need for a full replacement.

If your furnace is aging, inefficient, frequently requiring repairs, or producing strange noises, contact P.C Plumbing, Heating, AC & Remodeling today. We maintain, repair, and install all makes and models of heating systems, including yours.