Now here’s a loaded question, “What is the average life expectancy of a gas furnace?” Here are some answers:
Longer than it takes to drive from I-94 to I-290 on the Kennedy Expressway.
(this depends on the day and how lucky you are)
Less time than we’ve been waiting for the Bears to win another Super Bowl.
(1985 season)
Longer than it took to build the Willis (Sears) Tower.
(three years)
Less time than the Daley family held the post of Chicago’s mayor.
(Richard J. Daley 21 years, Richard M. Daley 22 years)
Okay, let’s get a little more serious. A good answer to the question is probably from 15-18 years, but the actual number for the furnace in your Illinois or Northwest Indiana home will depend on many factors. Here are some of the key ones:
How well it’s maintained
This is why Merts Heating & Air Conditioning puts so much emphasis on regular maintenance. It’s not unusual for a furnace that is well maintained to last years longer than one that’s not.
Humidity in the home
A damp home is the enemy of furnace longevity. High humidity will eventually cause key components to rust, resulting in premature failure.
How hard it works
Our homes are in Illinois and Northwest Indiana. The winters are cold, and we can’t change that. Furnaces here must work harder than in warmer locations. This is going to speed up the aging process, especially when it comes to the heat exchanger.
Slowing the aging process
Now let’s talk about some ways you can fight back with the issues that cause furnaces to age more quickly.
Change Filters Regularly
If you are using basic fiberglass filters, they should be changed monthly. Merts recommends using higher quality pleated filters. These generally last about three months. In either case they should be replaced more often if you live in a dusty location or have multiple pets.
Scheduled Tune-Ups
Only a trained technician can keep your furnace operating at peak efficiency and identify potential problems that could result in furnace repairs. Ignoring these annual tune-ups will speed up the aging process.
Control Humidity
It’s important to control the moisture in your house to discourage rust and corrosion in the furnace. This is not only a longevity issue, but a safety one as well. Rust can cause carbon monoxide leaks from the furnace.
Depend on Merts
Protect your valuable investment with professional furnace maintenance from Merts Heating & Air Conditioning, serving Illinois and Northwest Indiana since 1952. For more great information be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.