Installing a new furnace in your home is a pretty big investment. When you make it, you will want to know how long your new furnace should last. Similarly, you may eventually face a hefty repair bill that forces you to decide if your furnace is worth saving. Here’s everything you need to know about how long the average furnace should last.
Average Furnace Longevity
The number of years you can expect your furnace to last depends on its type. In general, a quality gas furnace should provide at least 15 years of reliable operation. A quality electric furnace should last 20 years. However, multiple factors can influence those numbers.
Factors That Influence Furnace Longevity
The first factor influencing furnace longevity is the quality of the furnace itself. It’s a good idea to choose a furnace from a major, reputable manufacturer. You should also investigate the manufacturer’s overall track record to see if other homeowners have experienced longevity issues.
The second factor influencing the longevity of your furnace is the quality of its installation. Mistakes during installation can lead to premature wear and a shorter service life. Therefore, it’s critical to choose an experienced, qualified installer from the get-go.
The third factor influencing your furnace’s longevity is maintenance. Without maintenance, you can expect significantly shorter furnace life spans. To maximize your furnace’s life span, schedule professional maintenance once a year.
The fourth factor influencing furnace longevity is workload. Some homeowners depend more heavily on their furnaces than others. It wouldn’t be unusual for homes here to need furnace replacements every decade or so.
Choosing Between Furnace Repair and Replacement
It’s important to note that even well-maintained furnaces can break down. When that happens, you may face a substantial repair bill. When your furnace is relatively new, repairs are almost always worth it. However, trying to squeeze the maximum number of years from your furnace isn’t always the right choice.
When choosing between furnace repair and replacement, use the $5,000 rule. Multiply the age of your furnace by the estimated repair cost. If the result exceeds $5,000, the repair is likely not worth it. The formula lets you know whether you’re likely to get enough future use from your furnace to justify the repair cost. In some cases, it may be a wiser investment to replace even a relatively new furnace.
Now you know all there is to know about furnace longevity, so you should feel confident in making your next furnace purchase and in evaluating needed repairs. When you need furnace services in Colorado Springs, CO, contact Peak Home Performance.
