As the temperatures continue to cool off, we start to think about the furnace in our home. We wonder how it will work this winter season. Keeping our homes warm will keep us comfortable. We do not want to be left in the cold because we didn’t take care of our furnace or weren’t aware of how long it should last. There is not one answer to the question about how long your furnace will last. While there are some general factors that will help answer this question, you really need to become an informed consumer and learn some of the basics when it comes to your furnace and what will affect its performance.

How Does a Furnace Work?

The warm air that is circulated throughout your home is done by way of your furnace. Today’s furnaces are much more effective than they were 15-20 years ago. These more efficient models save you money and are greener than older furnaces. They also do a better job at improving the air quality in your home. The number one part that will determine how long your furnace will last is the heat exchanger, regardless of the type of furnace you have.

Cracked Furnace Heat Exchanger

Think of the heat exchanger as the heart of your furnace. If it stops working so will the furnace. Almost all the parts of a furnace can be replaced quite easily but the heat exchanger is much harder. The heat exchanger can make the environment unsafe and needs to be replace as soon as possible. Heat exchangers in older furnaces can last for 30 to 40 years because they are made of heavy metals, but are energy drainers. Heat exchangers in forced air furnaces can last for about 15 years and the heat exchangers in today’s furnaces last anywhere for 15 to 25 years and are made of aluminized or stainless steel. The normal heating and cooling of any heat exchanger will eventually cause it to crack, get corroded or fail.

How to Extend the Life of Your Furnace

No furnace lasts forever but you can make it last longer with a few steps.
• Regular Furnace Maintenance – A well maintained HVAC system will make it run more efficiently and will ensure healthy indoor air quality.
• Check Moisture Levels in the Home – The heat exchanger can start to rust if moisture levels become excessive. The rust can cause the exchanger to degrade at a faster rate.
• Change Filters – Dirty air filters decrease the quality of the air in your home and restricts the air flow. This can cause the heat exchanger to overheat and make the furnace to work harder to move air in your home. Change air filters as soon as they appear dirty.
• Maintain a Clean A/C Coil – When the drain gets clogged it will leak condensation onto the heat exchanger. This will cause it rust and can ruin other electrical parts.

Furnace Inspections, Repairs & Replacements in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam Massachusetts

If you find yourself wondering how long your furnace will last, then it’s time to call professionals in for an inspection. Contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning to determine if it’s more cost effective to replace the furnace rather than repair it.