A common question we hear from customers is when to replace their natural gas furnace. Homeowners want to get the most years possible out of their investment in a central heating system, but they also know that no furnace can last forever. At some point, a furnace will become less effective, less energy efficient, and even less safe. At what point is a furnace replacement ready?
There are several factors that can help tell you when a furnace needs to be replaced, such as regular malfunctions and soaring heating bills. But one solid determining factor is the furnace’s age. If you have a gas furnace that is older than fifteen years, our advice is to replace it. And we’re not the only people offering this same advice…
The US Department of Energy agrees: replace the furnace
We’re going right to the top government agency that deals with heating systems, the US Department of Energy. According to the US DOE website, for a furnace (or boiler) that is more than 15 years old, “Consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace, which is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace.”
An old furnace will soon lose energy efficiency
The DOE advice focuses on how you can save energy with a new furnace. It’s true that plenty has changed over 15 years when it comes to furnace technology, and the newer ENERGY STAR models are far more efficient than the current model you have.
But there’s more to it than your old furnace being behind the times. After 15 years, a furnace will start to lose its original energy efficiency—if it hasn’t already started to lose it. Take a look at your recent energy bills, and you might find that you’re already paying more than in previous winters. Once a furnace is more than 15 years old, regular maintenance won’t do much to stop the slide in efficiency.
Let’s talk about safety as well
Gas furnaces are built with numerous safety features, and as long as you keep up with maintenance for your furnace, you shouldn’t have to worry about potential hazards. Until the furnace is over 15 years old.
An older furnace is in greater danger of suffering from corrosion along its heat exchanger because of the many years of exposure to combustion vapor. If the heat exchanger corrodes, it can crack and allow toxic combustion gases to escape. Although maintenance can catch corrosion, it’s usually a sign that the furnace needs a replacement—but we recommend getting ahead of the problem by just replacing a furnace older than 15 years.
Want expert advice? Call First Choice!
If you feel on the fence about a furnace replacement in Flushing, MI, it’s easy to find the professional assistance you need. Simply call First Choice. Our technicians can look at your furnace and advise you about the best next steps to take. If you need a new furnace, we’ll find one that will meet your needs and work at great efficiency. We’ll make your home happy!
First Choice Heating & Cooling serves Fenton, Linden, Holly, and the surrounding areas. If your home had a voice … it would call First Choice!