When the snow starts flying and sub-zero temperatures start to set in, we all look forward to a warm, cozy home where we can put up our feet and relax. But what if your furnace is heading toward the great white light? Like many appliances, how long a furnace will last is dependent on a multitude of different factors.
So how long will your furnace last?
Short Answer: It depends a great deal on the extent of its use, age, and how well it’s maintained.
The last thing you want to deal with is a furnace breaking down when the cold and blustery winds of November and December sweep into Western Pennsylvania. The majority of homeowners are not completely aware of their furnace’s age, the extent of its use, or what the lifespan of their furnace actually is. Luckily, you’re in the majority of homeowners who read our blog! This post walks you through what you need to know.
What Does the Age of Your Furnace Mean?
Understanding the age of your furnace is important in making proper judgments in handling issues your furnace may have, but the sheer age of your system does not indicate a need for replacement alone. If you have a 20-year-old furnace that still works well…great! However, there are still some things to keep in mind.
Regular Maintenance
No matter the age of your furnace, planned maintenance by a professional is guaranteed to keep it working in the best condition possible. Your air filters will be kept clean, ventilation and fan systems will be inspected, and repairs will be addressed before they become serious.
Make Note of Your Furnace Model
If you have a long withstanding furnace that does end up needing replacement, you may want to explore modern day options that are comparable. As an American Standard Customer Care Dealer and a Mitsubishi Electric Diamond Contractor, we’ll have no problem finding you a reliable piece of equipment. A sturdy, reliable furnace model is going to be the best investment for your heating system — and in Western Pennsylvania, it’s worth it.
Signs Your Furnace’s End Is Near
Discovering your furnace needs replacing after it has completely shut down is less than desirable. Keeping an eye out for warning signs that your furnace has seen better days is going to be your best bet to keep your costs low and prevent your family from freezing while you wait for a replacement. Here are some of the most common signs your furnace needs replacing:
- A large rise in energy bills
- Uneven heating
- Low air quality
- Frequent repairs
My Furnace Needs Replacing. Now What?
If your furnace has been inspected, repaired, inspected again, and simply won’t work the way it needs to, it’s time for a new one. Like any piece of machinery (think about your car), eventually the repairs will cost more than what your unit is worth.
Where do you start?
Modern furnace models are built with an annualized fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating that represents the efficiency of each model. This represents how much heat the furnace can create versus how much is lost in the combustion process. A standard gas furnace will have a rating of 80% or higher, with some top of the line units maintaining a rating of up to 98%. The higher the efficiency, the lower your heating costs.
If your furnace has seen better days and you’re unsure of what your next steps should be, contact Spurk HVAC. We’ll help you understand the current efficiency of your furnace and find an affordable model should you need replacement.
About Spurk HVAC
Spurk HVAC was formed in 2018 and is located in Warrendale, Pennsylvania. We proudly serve Cranberry Twp., Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and the surrounding areas. We are an American Standard Customer Care Dealer and a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor. We service all makes and models. Please contact us if you are seeking heating repair, heating system replacement, air conditioner repair, air conditioning maintenance, air conditioning replacement, or any other heating & cooling services. Whether you are looking for residential or commercial HVAC services, we look forward to any and all opportunities to become your preferred HVAC contractor.
