Furnaces are a popular choice for home heating because they are efficient, relatively quiet, and durable. These appliances are the core component of your home’s heating system and can run on electricity, natural gas, propane oil, or wood. After heating the air, it’s transmitted all over the home through heating ducts creating comfortable temperatures.
If you are considering installing a furnace in Loveland, CO, you might wonder how long these machines will last. Here’s what you need to know.
Average furnace lifespan
The lifespan of a furnace is subjective. On average, a regularly serviced furnace can last between 15 – 30 years. However, some have been known to last up to 40 years. It’s hard to tell how long a furnace will last, as this is dependent on many factors such as use, installation, and more.
When your furnace reaches 15 years old, it’s a good idea to start looking at new models as you might need to replace it soon. This doesn’t mean your furnace can’t last longer, but learning about modern designs and more energy-efficient models is a good idea. This will also give you a rough idea of what getting a new unit will cost.
Factors that affect a unit’s lifespan
The life expectancy of a furnace can vary quite a bit. Before you decide to get furnace repairs, it’s important to know what can affect how long your unit will last.
Installation
How your furnace is installed can affect how well it works and lasts. Poor installation can lead to a poorly designed, sized, and sealed duct network that can impact the machine’s efficiency and your comfort. If the fuel lines or drainage system are also poorly installed, they can affect how the machine works and bring on premature breakdowns.
Regular servicing
As with most appliances, regular servicing can help identify and resolve minor issues that can negatively impact the lifespan of your unit. For instance, you can avoid dirt build-up on the burners, blades, or heat exchangers, which can affect how the unit works. They can restrict airflow, imbalance the fans, affect the motor and make the furnace less efficient since the components have to work harder.
Thermostat settings
The great thing about a furnace is you can set your comfort preferences. However, how high or low you set this can directly impact your furnace’s lifespan. Setting it at a steady temperature helps reduce fuel consumption and overworking your unit.
Furnace size
It’s imperative to get the right-sized furnace for your home. If the system is too small, it will have to work twice as hard to provide heating, which can quickly wear it out. If it’s too large, it will turn on and off too quickly, leading to damage.
How long your furnace will last will depend on how well you take care of your unit. Ensure to get the right sized unit properly installed by an HVAC professional in Loveland, CO. Additionally, service it frequently to remove build-up and ensure the components are working well.
