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How long should my furnace last?

January 3, 2022

Taking care of your home and all your systems and appliances will save you time, hassle, and money. There are lots of things that fall into this category, but furnaces are one that you’ll need the most! One of the common questions our HVAC experts get is, “Can you tell me how long this furnace will last?”

The simple answer is between 15 and 30 years. And that’s a great rule of thumb. But if you ask us, that’s a pretty big range of time! That makes it hard to plan for, and one of your next questions might be, “How do I make my furnace last as long as possible?”

Godwin to the rescue! We want to share with you a few tips to keep your furnace in tip-top shape so it can last longer.

Tip #1: Regular maintenance & check-ups

Just like us humans, heating and cooling systems need regular check-ups and tune-ups to stay in tip-top shape. Bringing in a licensed technician every 6-12 months can prevent certain potential problems with your furnace instead of waiting to get a tune-up on the day you wake up and have no heat.

Tip #2: Keep up with changing out your filters

If you have a smart thermostat, you likely get reminders to change your furnace filter every few months. This is key to not only keeping your furnace in great condition, but it also improves the air quality in your home. A general rule of thumb is to change your 1-2-inch filters every 1-3 months, 3-4-inch filters every 6-9 months, and 5-6-inch filters every 9-12 months.

Tip #3: Choose the furnace for your specific needs

If you are currently shopping for a new furnace, there are many options, and it can feel overwhelming! Your first decision is whether you want an electric or gas furnace. Electric furnaces are newer and built to last a solid 20-30 years, whereas the classic gas furnace is more likely to be in the 15-20 year range. The catch: gas furnaces typically cost less to run in your home throughout the year and often heat your home more quickly than electric systems.

Ready to talk to an expert? Our team of HVAC specialists is here to help! Give us a call to schedule a tune-up or a new install consultation. We’ll give you a range of options and help you choose what is best for you and your home.

Call us at 616-241-3131 or check out our Heating and Cooling page.

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