There are many criteria that can affect the lifespan of a furnace. The life expectancy of an average furnace is 15 to 20 years, with some furnaces lasting even longer if they are properly and regularly serviced and maintained. Here are some of the factors that can influence how long your furnace will last.
Maintenance: A regular annual cleaning and system check can identify small problems before they become big problems. This also ensures that your system is running at peak efficiency, therefore putting less strain on the unit.
Quality: No one wants to spend a fortune on a furnace, but the old adage “you get what you pay for” applies here too. The higher the quality of the furnace, the higher the likelihood that it will have a longer lifespan.
Size: Selecting the correct furnace size for your home is crucial. A furnace that is too small will result in the unit running constantly and will cause strain. One that is too large causes your home to heat up quickly and then the furnace shuts off. The constant starting and stopping and temperature variations put extra strain on the unit.
Climate: Obviously, homes in colder climates will use their furnaces more than homes in warmer climates. Make sure you select a unit that can handle cold Pennsylvania winters.
Environment: Too much moisture in the air can rust furnace parts and cause premature failure. Also, if your furnace was not properly ventilated when it was installed, the extra heat can cause your furnace to overheat, putting strain on the unit.