A furnace is an essential part of any home’s HVAC system. It helps to provide the necessary heating for a comfortable home environment and should last for many years if well-maintained. But exactly how long does a furnace typically last? 

Generally, residential furnaces are built to operate effectively for around 15 to 20 years, depending on the make and model you choose. The type of furnace you own can also play a major role in its lifespan. If the size of your furnace matches the heating demands of the size of your house, it will last longer. This, and well-sealed, sized, and designed ductwork, are why you need to make sure you are choosing a company with adequate knowledge and experience for a furnace installation that will last.  Additionally, regular maintenance can help extend the life of your furnace by keeping it running smoothly.  It is also important to note that running a furnace at higher-than-normal temperatures regularly can also shorten its life. 

Your Furnace Will Last Longer If It Is Sized Correctly

If a furnace isn’t the right size for your home, it can have a detrimental effect on its longevity. A furnace that is too small may constantly run in order to keep up with the heating demands of a bigger home, causing strain on the system. This added stress can cause components to wear out quickly and lead to frequent breakdowns in the long run. On the contrary, if the system is too large, it will have to cycle on and off more than necessary and also run inefficiently. That’s why it is important to make sure you purchase the correct size furnace for your home. 

Regular Maintenance Can Extend Life Expectancy Of Residential Furnaces

Regular maintenance is an essential factor in helping to maintain the longevity of your furnace. Through regular inspection and cleaning, you can identify and address minor issues before they become bigger ones that could lead to costly repairs or complete system failure. During a routine maintenance check, a professional HVAC technician will inspect all components of your furnace for wear and tear, check for any leaks, and clean out the system of dust and debris. By taking the time every year to spend a minimal fee, you can help ensure that your furnace is running efficiently and safely throughout its lifespan before real problems set in, and it is more money for extensive repairs. A professional HVAC technician can detect any potential signs of trouble early on and recommend solutions to extend the life of your furnace, saving you money in the long run.

Poor HVAC Duct Installation Can Shorten A Furnaces Life Expectancy

Poor HVAC duct installation can significantly shorten a furnace’s life span. The size, design, and sealing of the ductwork must be done correctly in order for the furnace to run efficiently and not waste energy. Properly installing ductwork for your furnace is a complex process that is best left to experienced professionals. Improper ductwork installation can lead to excessive pressure buildup in the system, which can cause components to overheat and break down faster than normal. Additionally, improper sealing will allow for the air your furnace has worked hard to heat to leak out, leading to higher energy costs. 

Running your Furnace Regularly at Temperatures of 80 Degrees Or More Can Reduce Its Life Expectancy

Running a furnace at temperatures of higher than 80 degrees for extended periods of time can drastically reduce its life expectancy. The DOE recommends 68- 72 degrees. Most thermostats don’t even permit a setting higher than 90. When the system is constantly running to keep your home’s internal temperature that high above the outside temperature, it will be overworking itself and cause components to wear out much faster than usual. This can lead to your furnace emitting a burnt smell and even turning off if it exceeds a safe internal temperature, leaving your home cold. Your thermostat on the wall may read a normal safe temperature, but a normal temperature for the air leaving the furnace is between 140 and 170 degrees. Keep your poor furnace in mind when you decide to crank it up!

Furnace Repairs and Maintenance in Pittsburgh

Ventec has been providing exceptional heating, cooling, and ventilation services to households in Pittsburgh since 1989. Our highly-trained furnace repair technicians are committed to providing the best service possible for their clients and keeping residential furnaces in top condition. Call us if you need help with your furnace this cold season!