The answer to the question, ‘How long should your heater or furnace last?’ is not a simple one to answer. It depends on a number of factors, such as the type of equipment and how well it has been maintained over the years. In addition, the way your heater or furnace was installed can have a big role in how long it lasts. (That’s why it’s so important to get professional installation for New York heating).
How Long Do Typical Heaters or Furnaces Last?
When it comes to heaters and furnaces, choosing a higher quality product from the beginning will usually mean a longer life.
Some home builders tend to use lower grade builder model products which can reasonably be expected to last between 8 and 12 years. In comparison, a premium model may last between 15 and 20 years.
If you are living in a home which has a builders’ model furnace, you may want to consider looking at a new system once the equipment is 10 or 12 years old. By that point, higher utility bills and repair costs may makes switching to a higher efficiency furnace a worthwhile investment.
How Can I Make My Heater or Furnace Last Longer?
Annual professional maintenance inspections are an important part of getting the most out of your furnace. A builder model that has been well maintained and serviced regularly will last longer than a higher-quality product that has not been kept in good repair.
Hint: Customers who are diligent about having an annual fall tune-up can get the most life out of their unit.
The way the system was installed also plays a role in its longevity. Heaters or furnaces should always be installed by an experienced HV technician to ensure that the unit is working properly and that the airflow return is at an appropriate level for your home.
When You Should Consider Replacing Your Heater or Furnace
Here are some reasons you may want to consider upgrading to a new heater or furnace:
- You are upgrading your air conditioning system. A high-efficiency air conditioning installation in NYC requires more airflow than a minimum efficiency furnace. The assembly cannot be upgraded to achieve the efficiency required to run the system.
- The existing furnace rattles when it turns on. Many of the older models come on instantly at full speed, which makes them quite noisy. Newer models ramp up more slowly and are much quieter, especially at night. They also push less cold air into rooms.
- You want to save money on heating bills. The high cost of gas and electric may encourage you to start thinking of making a switch to a high-efficiency furnace. Updating to a newer model can significantly cut this monthly expense.
- Safety is another concern with older furnaces. Newer models are equipped with a safety switch that shuts the system down if carbon monoxide starts to leak into the house. They also have features to prevent flames from escaping from the unit, which greatly reduces the risk of fire.
Are you considering replacing your heart or furnace for a high efficiency unit? We can help!