Your furnace is essential during cold snaps, even in places like Sacramento, CA. Therefore, you want to ensure you’re getting the most out of your appliance’s lifespan. Fortunately, learning everything you can about your furnace’s lifespan can ensure it lasts for years. Plus, Clarke and Rush HVAC services are available to help you extend the life of your furnace.
The Average Lifespan by Furnace Type
Start by finding out what type of furnace you have in your home. This helps you to learn the lifespan and other information about your particular furnace.
Here are several types of furnaces found in California homes:
- Natural gas furnace
- Oil furnace
- Electric furnace
- Propane furnace
Natural gas furnaces are common among homeowners due to fuel availability. When a cold snap occurs, a gas furnace quickly heats the home. A natural gas furnace can last 15 to 20 years on average and up to 25 years with proper care.
Oil furnaces aren’t as common in the area as gas furnaces, but they do provide significant heat when needed. The average lifespan of an oil furnace is 15 to 25 years.
Electric furnaces are also less common, but they’re great choices for smaller spaces. With fewer moving parts and simple mechanics, an electric furnace can last for over 20 to 30 years.
A propane furnace can last 15 to 20 years in California. However, this depends on the climate, usage and maintenance. Some homeowners consider more efficient replacements around 10 to 15 years to save money on repairs and energy bills.
Factors That Affect a Furnace’s Lifespan
While your furnace type is important, other factors can affect your furnace’s lifespan. This ranges from the usage and maintenance to more local considerations. Learning these factors can help you choose a long-lasting furnace for your home. These factors also give you an idea of how to take care of your furnace.
Location
The furnace you choose depends on the fuel availability in your area. If you live near a gas line, you may choose a natural gas furnace for quick heat. However, those who live in a rural area without a gas line may need a propane furnace.
Climate
The climate also plays a role in your furnace’s lifespan. While California does receive cold snaps, the winters are usually mild. This means heating isn’t always a huge concern. If you live in an inland valley, your furnace may last around 18 to 22 years. However, furnaces in coastal areas with salt air may last 15 to 18 years, which is shorter than other lifespans.
Installation
A poorly installed furnace is likely to wear down before the end of its lifespan. This includes furnaces in the wrong size. For example, a furnace that’s too small may work harder than necessary to provide adequate heating. It’s best to hire a professional from Clarke and Rush to install your furnace. We’ll not only install your furnace correctly, but we’ll also ensure you’ve chosen the right size for your home.
Usage
If your furnace is constantly running during cooler seasons, it may wear down more quickly. You may also run your furnace continuously if your home isn’t properly insulated. It’s better to use the furnace less frequently during mild winters and save the fuel for uncomfortable cold snaps. You should also ensure your home is properly insulated to prevent drafts and air leaks.
Energy Efficiency
When choosing a new furnace, consider a high-efficiency model, such as a 95%+ AFUE furnace. You also want to choose a furnace with features such as PVC venting. While the initial cost is higher, you’ll lower your monthly energy bills and prevent costly repairs.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance is crucial for prolonging the life of your furnace. It’s recommended to schedule your annual tune-up once a year, usually before winter hits. During your maintenance, our technicians will ensure your furnace is operating properly. They will also identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
Filters
It’s important to check the air filter monthly to ensure it’s not clogged with dust, pet hair and other allergens. If you have a clogged air filter, now is the time to change it. Clogged air filters put strain on your furnace because it’s working harder than usual. This can lead to premature wear and breakdowns.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
It’s important to learn when it’s time to replace your furnace. Once you notice the following signs, contact a professional to inspect and address the problem. While some issues only need a repair, other issues require a new furnace.
Age
If your furnace is over 15 to 20 years old, pay attention to signs of aging. Of course, this depends on the average lifespan of your furnace type. Electric furnaces last longer, but they may still start slowing down around the 20-year mark. It never hurts to schedule an inspection if you feel your furnace is getting old.
Inconsistent Temperatures
You may notice uneven heating or cold spots in rooms while the furnace is running. Possible causes include clogged filters, blocked vents and thermostat issues. However, it also indicates an older furnace that can’t keep up with current demands. If you’re unsure, contact our team to check your furnace.
Strange Sounds
It’s common for a furnace to make sounds like clicks, pops and a low hum as it starts and stops. However, your furnace shouldn’t make banging, rattling, grinding or screeching sounds. These sounds may indicate issues with the heat exchanger or blower motor. A professional can let you know whether the issue is with your furnace’s age or another problem.
Increased Energy Bills
When your energy bills suddenly spike, check the usage of your furnace. Otherwise, your furnace may be losing efficiency due to its old age. Older furnaces work more than usual, leading to higher energy bills.
Frequent Repairs
While some repairs are inevitable, you shouldn’t need to call an expert more than once per season. The possible cause is an old, worn-out furnace. At this point, the cost of a new furnace is less than frequent repairs.
Yellow Burner Flame
Your furnace should show a blue flame, which indicates a clean, safe appliance. If your old furnace shows a yellow burner flame, contact a professional immediately. A yellow burner flame indicates incomplete combustion and a potential carbon monoxide leak.
Schedule Furnace Services With Clarke and Rush Today
Our company has been providing furnace services throughout the area for over 60 years. We’re experts in furnace tune-up, repair, replacement and installation services. You can also contact us to discuss hydronic heating systems and heat pump services. We provide a range of HVAC-related services, including HVAC system inspection and repair, thermostat installation and indoor air quality. Our family-owned business is proud to have high ratings on Google, Facebook and Yelp.
If you need reliable furnace services in Sacramento, contact Clarke and Rush today.