How Long Does A Natural Gas Furnace Last?

All things have an expiry date. When something is essential or a bit pricey, extending the furnace’s life in the best way feasible is valuable and more advisable, but do you have any idea about the expected lifespan of your appliance?

A natural gas furnace commonly has an average life expectancy of about 10 to 30 years. However, within your furnace lifespan, you may need to repair or replace it. There are so many factors that may impact the life of gas furnaces, such as the furnace size, model, date of manufacture, usage, and maintenance. By all means, scheduled annual maintenance and one-time repair can mean a lot in guaranteeing that your furnace will last as long as it can.

Warning Signs of A Slowing Down Heating System

It is vital to be knowledgeable regarding warning signs from your HVAC system that demonstrate it may need a repair or perhaps you may need a new furnace. It is particularly necessary to act immediately before it’s too late. Never inspect your dying or broken heating system during a freezing winter night. It is better to be ready and equipped with basic info, as knowledge is the key to formulating a smart call.

If your current furnace is failing, it will normally begin to make noises, malfunction, emit carbon monoxide, or generate your home’s energy bills to increase. Read here to learn further the furnace replacement signs.

Certainly, not all of those stated are valid to your particular system. However, you may use them as a reliable parameter to estimate if it will last until the average furnace life expectancy or not.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace?

When you’re struggling with a heating system that’s exceeded its average lifespan or you notice any of the given signs here, you’re probably wondering if it’s better to repair it or if it’s time to replace it.

Even though your typical gas furnace can be restored, replacing it will usually save money over the long term. An older furnace usually continues to have problems so your furnace may not be worth the fees of routine maintenance. Hence, most HVAC technicians frequently suggest replacing an old furnace that’s over the average furnace lifespan if they have a situation that will be overpriced to repair.

When it comes to sunken costs, it may seem reasonable to just repair your furnace if it still has life in it. Also, repairing your furnace is likely the better option when minor problems are the culprit like a broken thermostat, strange noise, or loose ductwork.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace A Furnace?

Considering that there are several possible furnace issues to repair, there is a comprehensive wide range of probable costs. The national average cost of a repair is between $150 and $600. Installing a new furnace costs an average of $4,000, depending on the model and its efficiency rating. Though final replacement fees can vary depending on the area, model, warranties, and other features.

In choosing a replacement furnace, select one that has an ENERGY STAR certification for the best efficiency and energy savings. A high-efficiency unit with a rating of over 90% is a perfect choice in very cold climates. And in milder areas, choose one with a rating of 80%.

Should You Do Your Own Furnace Maintenance?

Furnace repairs are hard to assess and fixing them yourself can be a grave safety problem. You must always call an expert to conduct any kind of repair or replacement. Repairing a gas furnace is definitely a high-risk assignment. An incorrectly done repair can allow harmful gases into your home and endanger you and your family.

Attempting to repair an electric furnace is also unsafe. It might cause a severe high voltage shock or ignite a furnace fire.

Besides being dangerous, detecting the concern with furnaces is a demanding job for someone who is not skilled in the industry. For everything that breaks down, there are so many possible culprits and experts are trained to diagnose what’s going on and fix your appliance in a safe and labour-saving way. A professional is much more competent which is also essential and necessary if your furnace fails during cold months and you need a quick solution.

How Can You Avoid Furnace Repairs

Keep filters, motors, and the heat exchanger free from dust, dirt, and other debris.

Dirty filters can restrict airflow, making the furnace work harder and for longer periods which can impact its lifespan. It also affects indoor air quality, thus, your filter must be replaced monthly, and perhaps more frequently if you have family members with breathing problems, severe allergies, or if you own a pet.

Schedule regular annual maintenance from your local HVAC technician to work optimally.

Your HVAC system must be checked and cleaned every year, ideally every six months before the winter and summer. This is the right time to have the air ducts examined for leaks and the blower fan cleaned.

Take into consideration a programmable thermostat that will optimize its efficiency and operation.

Looking For A Furnace Repair & Replacement Service?

If you’re thinking of repairing your furnace or might need to install a new unit, the smartest decision you can make is getting the help of a professional.

You can’t go wrong with Polcomfort. We can help homeowners in Hamilton, Ontario and nearby areas with HVAC repair, replacement, and proper installation services. Our technicians are always ready, 7 days a week, to ensure your home is taken care of in a jiffy.

Our Hamilton-based company can also provide you with a free quote on installing or repairing your gas furnace. So, if you need a repair or replacement, fill out this form, or reach us at 416-319-4223.