How Long Do Furnaces Last?

October 9th, 2018 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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When considering replacing your furnace, it is common to want to know how long your new furnace will last. It is a large investment, so it is understandable to consider the longevity of your new heat supply. However, there is not a simple answer to the question as it can depend on many different factors. Here is some basic information on furnace life-spans and what you can expect.

The main component in a furnace that determines when it may need replacement is the heat exchanger. While other components are easily replaced, once the heat exchanger fails, that is usually the time to replace the whole furnace. Decades ago, the heat exchangers in furnaces were built using heavy metals like cast iron that could last 30 or more years. However, these older models were not as efficient. Newer models use stainless or aluminized steel for their heat exchangers, lasting 15-25 years in most cases, but providing improved energy efficiency.

So, how do you get the longest life from your new furnace? The best option is to begin a solid maintenance plan from the beginning to reduce wear and tear on the equipment. Annual tune-ups on your furnace should be planned to keep it maintained. Also, follow the manufacturer recommendations for replacing air filters to reduce stress on the system and keep humidity low to reduce risk of rust. If the A/C unit is on top of the furnace, make sure the coil and drain is kept clean to avoid it overflowing onto your furnace’s heat exchanger, which can also cause rust.

With regular maintenance, you can expect your furnace to last for 15-20 years or more. Make sure to keep up with your annual tune-ups and other maintenance to extend the life of your new furnace.

Posted on behalf of:
Western Aire Heating & Cooling
264 Buchanan Highway
Dallas, GA 30157
(770) 505-7426

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Replace Heat Exchanger or Install New Furnace?

January 24th, 2012 Posted in Furnaces
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If your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, you have two options:  you can either replace the heat exchanger or install a new furnace.  Doing nothing and continuing to use your existing furnace is not a safe option.

A cracked heat exchanger is dangerous.  It can leak deadly carbon monoxide into your home and cause you and your family to suffer from carbon monoxide poison.  Every year, thousands of Americans are hospitalized for carbon monoxide poisoning and about 400 people are killed every year by this deadly gas.

Replacing the heat exchanger is a relatively expensive furnace repair, but it is less expensive than installing a new furnace.  While this might seem like the obvious choice, there is more to consider than just the cost of the repair.  Installing a new furnace might cost more up front, but it could save you money in the long run.

Most cracked heat exchangers are found in older furnaces.  Furnaces that are more than 15 years old are much less efficient than modern furnaces.  Older gas furnaces are often only 55 percent to 65 percent efficient.  The minimum efficiency rating for a new gas furnace is 78 percent and can be as high as 97 percent.

Higher efficiency means lower heating costs and these savings can add up.  You could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the life of your new furnace.  These savings would more than cover the cost difference between replacing the heat exchanger and installing a new furnace.

Your HVAC contractor can help you decide whether replacing the heat exchanger or installing a new energy efficient furnace is the right choice for you.

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Heat Exchanger Replacement

January 24th, 2012 Posted in Furnaces
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One of the most frustrating repairs to your gas furnace is a cracked heat exchanger.  In many cases, the furnace seems to be working properly, and the cracked heat exchanger is found during routine service by your HVAC technician.  Other times, the cracked heat exchanger is found when the gas company turns on service to the residence.

Homeowners often understandably question whether a repair is really necessary since often the furnace otherwise works normally.  Unfortunately, it is dangerous to use a furnace with a cracked heat exchanger because it can result in carbon monoxide poisoning.

A gas furnace heats your home by burning natural gas or propane.  In addition to creating heat, the combustion process produces various gasses including deadly carbon monoxide.  The heat exchanger extracts the heat from the combustion process while allowing the combustion gasses to be safely exhausted out of your home.

When there is a crack or hole in the heat exchanger, there is a danger that carbon monoxide will leak into your home.  Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless gas that is toxic to humans.  Every year, hundreds of Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by having the cracked heat exchanger replaced or by replacing the furnace.  If you have concerns about whether your heat exchanger is cracked, have it inspected by  a reputable local HVAC contractor with experience in furnace repair and replacement.  Your HVAC technician will be able to identify a cracked heat exchanger and review your options with you.  Replacing a cracked heat exchanger can be expensive, but it is necessary for the safety of you and your family.

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