How Long Does a Furnace Last?

A furnace is a long-term investment in your home’s comfort, with units typically lasting 15 or more years. The type of furnace you choose has a significant impact on its lifespan. Here’s what to expect:

• Gas furnace: A gas furnace can last 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance and tune-ups.

• Electric furnace: Electric furnaces have fewer moving parts, so homeowners can expect 20 to 30 years of reliable performance.

• Oil furnaces: With regular cleaning and maintenance, an oil furnace's expected lifespan is 15 to 25 years.

How long your furnace lasts doesn’t just depend on how often it has to run. Several other factors influence its lifespan, including:

• Installation quality: In addition to taking the hassle out of replacing one of your home’s biggest appliances, professional installation impacts the lifespan of your furnace. If a furnace is properly installed, it runs more efficiently and lasts longer.

• Maintenance frequency: During annual tune-ups, a professional technician thoroughly cleans and inspects the furnace to identify and address potential problems. This helps prevent breakdowns and improve efficiency.

• Usage and workload: Furnaces in colder climates work harder and may wear out faster than units in warm climates.

• Air filter changes: Changing your air filter regularly ensures maximum airflow to the unit, preventing it from overworking.

Several signs can indicate that it’s time to replace your furnace. Some warning signs to look for include:

• Rising energy bills: As a furnace ages, it becomes less energy-efficient. If your energy bills begin to run high, consider replacing your unit.

• Frequent repairs: Furnaces that need ongoing repairs may be at the end of their lifespan.

• Uneven heating: If your unit doesn’t produce consistent temperatures, it may be failing.

• Strange noises: Your furnace should operate quietly, so if you hear banging, rattling, or squealing sounds, this can indicate worn-out components.

• Yellow pilot light (for gas furnaces): A yellow flame instead of blue may indicate a gas leak or combustion issue, and a professional should check it immediately.

Although you can’t prevent your furnace from aging, you can take several steps to extend its lifespan and keep it running efficiently:

• Schedule annual professional maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
• Replace air filters every 1 to 3 months to maintain airflow and efficiency.
• Install a programmable thermostat to reduce wear and tear from overuse.
• Keep vents and ducts clean and unblocked to promote proper airflow.
• Seal leaks and insulate your home to reduce strain on the heating system.

Repairing your furnace when it breaks down can be an effective way to save money. If your furnace is still under warranty and has a few years remaining, or if it has a minor issue like a thermostat problem, repairing is your best option.

Consider replacing your furnace if:

• It’s over 15 years old and requires frequent repairs
• It needs repairs that exceed half the cost of a new system
• Your energy bills are increasing despite regular maintenance