Many new homeowners are initially excited about moving in and making their new house a home, until they learn about all the repairs and maintenance a new home requires. One thing that often comes up during the first few months of homeownership is learning about your HVAC system. Oftentimes, the old homeowners sell their homes before the furnace and air conditioning systems need to be replaced. If you’re just finding out that your new home came with a 25-year-old furnace, you might be wondering when is the ideal time to replace it.
Heartland Heating, Air, and Plumbing are your home services experts to help you determine when it’s time for a furnace replacement and what to consider if you suddenly find yourself needing a new heating system for your home.
What is the Average Lifespan of a Furnace?
The average lifespan of a furnace is between 15 – 20 years. However, some furnaces can last longer if they are properly maintained and cared for. Having a 25-year-old furnace that is running reliably still usually means that it was well taken care of most of its life, however, it probably doesn’t have much time left.
Most HVAC companies say you should start thinking about furnace replacement after 10 years, and the longer you wait to replace it, the more likely it is going to need repairs and run inefficiently. The longer you keep your furnace around, it may cost you on heating bills and repair costs.
When Should I Replace My 25-Year-Old Furnace?
It’s never a good idea to just wait for your furnace to stop working before you replace it. Instead, it’s a smart idea to ask your furnace repair technician how much longer you can expect out of your furnace, and if a repair would cost more than a new furnace. To save money, you should replace your furnace on your terms, rather than the system’s terms.
It’s a good idea to purchase a new furnace before the winter temperatures begin to drop so you have reliable heat throughout the cold season. Furnaces tend to be more affordable in the off-season like in the spring or early fall. Oftentimes, holidays like Labor Day or memorial day will offer additional discounts on a new heating system.
However, it’s best to talk to an experienced furnace installation specialist like Heartland. We can walk you through the furnace replacement process as well as ensure the proper installation of your new furnace for your home. We also offer flexible financing to make sure that a new furnace is affordable for you and your family.
What Should I Look For When Shopping For a New Furnace?
There are several factors to consider when shopping for a new furnace, be sure to consider:
- The Efficiency Rating – the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating on a furnace will tell you how efficient it is. Many new furnaces are much more efficient than systems from 25 years ago, and you’ll notice this right away in your heating bill.
- Size – Your new system needs to be sized correctly for your home. A heating system that is too big will be an inefficient furnace, and a furnace that is too small will have to work harder to heat your home.
- Fuel Source – An electric furnace will be more efficient, but often more expensive. A natural gas furnace may require a gas line to be run to your home, which could be an additional expense. Propane and oil are also fuel sources for furnaces.
- Warranty and Rebates – Pay attention to how long your warranty on your furnace will last as it can make repairs much more affordable in the future. Make sure that you take note of the maintenance required to keep the warranty valid. Rebates can also provide additional cost savings.
How Can I Make My Furnace Last Through The Winter Season?
If you don’t think you’re ready to pull the trigger on purchasing a new heating system at this time, then you might want to know how you can keep your furnace lasting as long as possible. You can increase your furnace’s lifespan with regular maintenance every year. Furnace maintenance from Heartland can restore your system to peak efficiency and help prevent your system from needing repairs. Sign up for Heartland’s affordable HVAC maintenance plan so you never miss an important appointment.
If you ever notice that your furnace is not working properly, don’t put off furnace repairs. Furnace repairs will help keep your heating bills low and prevent worse issues from developing.
Talk To Heartland About Furnace Replacement Services Today
Whether you need furnace repairs, maintenance, or replacement services, you can trust the team at Heartland Heating, Air, and Plumbing for an honest assessment of your heating system. Talk to us for an estimate on replacing your 25-year-old furnace.