Wondering how to know when to replace a furnace? Determining the right moment to upgrade your existing furnace to a newer and more youthful model hinges on factors such as your budget, efficiency requirements, and actual needs. The choice to invest in a fresh furnace is a substantial one, considering the potential cost ranging from $2,500 to over $5,000, depending on the type (gas, electric, oil, or propane). This article aims to equip you with valuable insights, enabling you to approach the decision of furnace replacement with enhanced clarity and confidence.
Is it time to replace your current furnace equipment? It can be difficult to know when to replace a furnace, but if you think it might be time, book a consultation appointment with a home comfort advisor from Peel Heating and Air Conditioning! All consultations include a free new system purchase quote! You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about our current discounts and financing options so you can save even more on your new equipment!
A furnace’s average lifespan
Generally, a well-maintained furnace can provide consistent operation for approximately 15 to 20 years, and potentially even longer with meticulous care. Nevertheless, we recommend that you remain mindful of your furnace's age to promptly detect any indications of deterioration. While concerns with a newer furnace can often be resolved easily, problems arising from an older unit might serve as a forewarning that replacement could be on the horizon.
Is a 30-year-old furnace safe?
There are a lot of safety concerns with older furnaces, which arise and worsen as the furnace gets older. Furnaces tend to live between 15-20 years, and there’s an increased likelihood of wear and tear, reduced efficiency, and even hazards like gas leaks or malfunctioning components as they get past the 20-year mark. Have a professional come to assess the safety and functionality of a furnace at this age, and consider getting a replacement.
While it can be a costly endeavour to replace an older furnace, you may actually end up paying even more for the older furnace in repairs, maintenance, and your energy bills. A total replacement will break down less, need less maintenance, and will be more efficient. Yes, there’s an upfront cost, but that’s nothing compared to the ongoing costs of a 30-year-old, aging furnace - even if that furnace otherwise seems like it’s functioning “okay.”
Generally, a well-maintained furnace can provide consistent operation for approximately 15 to 20 years, and potentially even longer with meticulous care. Nevertheless, we recommend that you remain mindful of your furnace's age to promptly detect any indications of deterioration. While concerns with a newer furnace can often be resolved easily, problems arising from an older unit might serve as a forewarning that replacement could be on the horizon.
When should you consider replacing your furnace?
Detecting potential signs of deterioration is crucial. Below, we outline the indicators to be mindful of. For younger furnaces aged 3-7 years, observing any of these symptoms might necessitate a repair rather than a full replacement. However, persistently encountering these issues coupled with an aging furnace, and costs of upkeep surpassing potential new unit expenses, suggests furnace replacement is a wise option.
Here are some of the key symptoms to pay mind to:
Unusual Noises or Odors
Whether powered by gas, oil, or propane, if you identify strange sounds or odors, it's a sign of inefficient furnace operation. Rattling or banging could be due to loose parts, while the smell might indicate a serious concern like a gas leak. Given the potential health risk with gas leaks, prompt consultation with a local technician is essential.
Inconsistent Temperatures
An uneven distribution of heat within your home – marked by chilly spots and overly warm areas – could denote your furnace's struggle to effectively circulate warmth. This hints at waning efficiency. Engage a technician to assess the situation and explore the possibility of a replacement.
Escalating Energy Costs
Aging furnaces inherently lose efficiency over time, even with regular maintenance efforts. Should you observe rising energy bills while your usage remains unchanged, your aging furnace could be the culprit. While severe winters might contribute, a consistent trend indicates a deeper issue. Consult a technician to discern if replacement is the best course.
Repairs Becoming Routine
Are furnace repairs becoming a recurrent expense, surpassing the yearly tune-up frequency? In the final 2 years of its functional life, a furnace often requires increased repairs. Evaluate your repair costs and the furnace's age. If repairs exceed 50% of the expense of a new, high-efficiency unit, it's likely time to plan a replacement.
Why replace an older furnace if it isn’t broken?
While bidding farewell to an old furnace might be emotionally challenging, remember that this sizable upgrade doesn't mark the ultimate finale! There exist several advantages to opting for a fresh, higher-efficiency furnace unit, outlined as follows:
Enhanced reliability
Instead of enduring potential breakdowns with an older furnace, consider the perks of a new unit. The likelihood of repairs diminishes significantly, reducing the chances of sudden replacement or urgent repair needs during a winter cold snap.
Increased efficiency
Embrace the concept of greater efficiency that accompanies a modern furnace. This transition promises reduced energy expenditures, ultimately leading to noteworthy savings on both your energy bills and overall operational expenses in the long run.
Improved comfort
Picture a newer furnace system as a superior counterpart to its aging counterpart, excelling at distributing warm air evenly throughout your entire household. With this advancement, you can finally bid adieu to those perplexing "ghost spots" that have plagued your home.
Better indoor air quality
Don't disregard the effects of an aging furnace on your indoor air quality. The air might turn drier and dustier due to an outdated system. In contrast, contemporary units exhibit reliable air circulation and filtration capabilities, significantly contributing to healthier indoor air quality.
If you find yourself on the fence about whether it’s time to schedule a furnace replacement or not, feel free to reach out to the technicians at Peel Heating and Conditioning. The pursuit of home comfort and efficiency starts with a simple call.
Peel Heating and Air Conditioning is available 24/7/365 days a year! That includes after-hours, weekends, and holidays at no additional cost! We can also install your new system the same-day or next day if you’re ever without a working heater during a cold snap in the area! Furthermore, if you want to save on your new heating system, ask us about our current discounts and financing options!
Call and book an at-home consultation appointment with a home comfort advisor today! All consultations come with a complimentary new system purchase quote!
