Dec 05, 2024

How Long Do Furnaces Last in Canada?

A furnace is a vital component of any Canadian home, especially during the harsh winter months. But how long do furnaces last? An average furnace lifespan is around 15-20 years. However, as with all other appliances, furnaces periodically break. A new furnace is always a considerable investment, but some repairs are expensive. Certain furnace problems can be fixed, and others may mean it’s time for a replacement. So, how long should a furnace last? Let’s explore what influences your furnace, how to keep it in a good state, and when a replacement is the best solution.

What affects the furnace’s lifespan?

One and the same furnace can serve you differently, so there is no correct response to the question, “How long does a furnace last.” Why is that? There are several reasons for this:

Quality of installation

A furnace that’s poorly installed is more likely to break down earlier than you expect. When your furnace is professionally installed, the system is properly sized, wired, and connected to the ductwork. Without this, the furnace could not work as it should. Experts say improper installation could reduce your furnace’s efficiency by up to 30%. That not only shortens the life of your furnace but also skyrockets your energy costs. So, skilled installation is a must.

Maintenance absence

If you don’t keep up with furnace maintenance, small issues can become bigger problems. Dirty filters block airflow, making the furnace work harder and less efficiently. Dust and dirt buildup inside can damage parts, causing your system to overheat or break down. This can lead to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear on the system. Besides, a poorly maintained furnace can pose serious safety risks, such as carbon monoxide poisoning.

Climate and weather conditions

Canada’s winters are harsh, and your furnace has to work overtime to keep your home warm. How long does a furnace last in Ontario? When temperatures dip below -20°C, the strain on your furnace increases, making it more prone to wear and tear. Frequent freeze-thaw cycles can also cause components to break down faster.

In Canada’s cold climate, heating makes up 60-70% of your home’s energy use. So, you must keep a furnace well-maintained to ensure it copes with the load.

Usage patterns

How you use your furnace can also affect how long it lasts. If you constantly crank up the thermostat, the furnace will work harder and cycle on and off more often, leading to more wear on its parts. On the other hand, setting it too low on cold days can force your furnace to overwork as it struggles to heat your home.

The key is to keep the temperature balanced. Avoid extreme settings, and ensure your home is well-insulated so your furnace doesn’t have to work harder than necessary.

Material quality

Another important factor is the quality of the materials used in your furnace. High-quality components are more resistant to corrosion, rust, and other types of damage. A furnace made from durable materials will likely last longer and need fewer repairs than one made with cheaper parts.

Although higher-quality models may cost more upfront, they often lead to fewer problems and can actually save you money over time.

Signs your furnace needs replacement

Sometimes, you can see yourself when it’s time for a new furnace.

Frequent breakdowns. If something constantly needs to be repaired, even with regular maintenance, it’s an alarming sign.
High energy bills. An old furnace may use more energy and increase your utility costs.
Strange noises. Banging or rattling sounds may indicate serious issues that could be expensive.
Poor heating performance. If your furnace struggles to heat your home or there are cold spots, it’s a sign it’s not working properly.
Age. Furnaces over 15 years old are losing their efficiency, even if they are well-serviced.

How to prolong your furnace lifespan?

As with each device, your furnace needs some care. Simple maintenance steps and proper usage habits will keep your furnace running flawlessly for years.

Schedule regular checkups. A professional inspection is one of the best ways to avoid major issues with your furnace. A technician will clean essential components, check the overall health of your furnace, and make other necessary adjustments.
Change dirty filters. Clogged filters restrict airflow and force your furnace to work harder and use more energy. Over time, this can increase wear and tear and even cause system breakdowns. Change furnace filters every 1-3 months.
Avoid extreme temperature settings. While they may seem like a quick way to heat your home faster, they seriously overload your furnace. Too frequent swings between very high and low temperatures increase furnace wear.
Don’t ignore small issues. If your furnace makes unusual noises, smells strange, or isn’t heating properly, act immediately. Otherwise, you will soon face bigger issues and higher repair bills. Call a professional early to prevent major breakdowns.
Consider a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat helps optimize your furnace and reduce energy use. It automatically adjusts the temperature based on your schedule, lowering it when you’re away or asleep so your furnace doesn’t overwork.

Summing up

If you want to achieve optimal furnace performance, care for it! Regular checkups, like timely filter changes and annual checkups, can prevent breakdowns and lower energy bills. If your furnace starts making strange noises or isn’t heating as it should, don’t wait—get it checked immediately. Dealing with these issues early will avoid costly repairs and keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.

At Panda Home Comfort, we make furnace care easy. Whether it’s time for a tune-up, furnace repair, or advice on replacing an old unit, our expert team is ready to help. Count on Panda Home Comfort to keep your furnace running smoothly for years to come!