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hvacBlog-feature-GasFurnaceLifespan

How Long Does a Gas Furnace Last?

If you have been living in your house for a while, you might wonder how long your gas furnace will last and if you need to replace it. While there is no one specific answer to the question of how long a gas furnace lasts, there are several factors that can affect its lifespan. Understanding the factors and maintenance involved with your gas furnace can help you make critical decisions about when to repair or replace it.

 

The Average Lifespan of a Gas Furnace

There are mixed opinions about the life expectancy of a gas furnace. Although a gas furnace can last more than 40 years in rare cases, the average lifespan tends to be between 15 and 30 years. As long as you schedule annual furnace maintenance, it should easily surpass the 15-year minimum.

When your furnace is about 15 years old, it is a good idea to start saving up and looking at new equipment so that you are prepared when the time comes to replace your gas furnace. You will want to learn about the most modern, energy-efficient options and get an idea of the cost. However, it is entirely up to you when you want to replace it – some people prefer to buy a new model before even a minor repair is needed. In contrast, others are willing to make a number of repairs to their existing gas furnace before investing in a new one.

 

Factors that Can Affect the Lifespan of a Gas Furnace

The life expectancy of your gas furnace can vary considerably. While some factors that may affect its lifespan are beyond your control, such as sizing and installation of your furnace, there are several factors that you can control:

 

Sizing

It is important to have a gas furnace that is appropriately sized for your home. If the furnace is too small for your space, it may stay on for too long and struggle to heat your home, which can add wear and tear on its parts. However, if the furnace is too large for your space, it will turn on and off too quickly, adding wear and tear to its parts.

 

Installation

It is crucial to select a qualified HVAC professional to install your furnace instead of doing it yourself. Poorly designed, sized, and sealed ductwork can restrict airflow and cause problems with performance and reliability. Inaccurately installed venting and fuel lines can also affect performance and reduce the lifespan of your furnace.

 

Maintenance

Regular maintenance can make or break your gas furnace. Ignoring recommended maintenance and buildup on furnace parts can reduce the lifespan of our furnace by making it work harder and lead to less effective heat transfer. It is recommended to hire a certified home heating technician who can fix minor repairs to improve performance and avoid more significant issues down the road.

 

Thermostat Settings

Setting your thermostat too high or too low can make your gas furnace run more frequently and reduce its lifespan. It is recommended to set your thermostat to around 20 degrees Celsius.

 

How to Extend the Lifespan of your Gas Furnace

Regular cleaning and maintenance is the best way to extend your gas furnace's lifespan. A certified HVAC technician can perform annual maintenance and keep you updated on any issues. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to maintain your furnace:

  • Keep filters, motors, and the heat exchanger free from dirt, dust, and debris, and ensure all ductwork is clean and properly sealed.

  • Check and clean your furnace air filter regularly.

  • Keep your home properly insulated and sealed.

  • Keep your thermostat settings near the recommended 20 degrees Celsius.

 

Signs it is Time to Replace your Gas Furnace

Like all home appliances, a gas furnace does not last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. Leading up to the end of its life, there will be some warning that your furnace is ready to give up, including:

  • Frequent service calls

  • Expensive repair bills

  • Uneven temperatures

  • Inability to maintain thermostat settings

  • Performance issues like blowing cold air

  • Poor air quality

  • New or increased noises

  • Increase in energy bills, especially for high-efficiency gas furnaces

 

If your furnace has proven resilient over time, you may consider buying a newer version of the same model, which will have advantages over its older counterparts. A Napoleon technician can help you determine the right size and model of gas furnace for your home and heating needs.

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