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Most well-maintained furnaces last between 15 and 20 years in Canadian homes before a replacement is needed. The lifespan of your furnace can vary depending on the model, installation quality, usage patterns, maintenance schedule, and air filtration. If repair costs are high and frequent, your energy bills have skyrocketed, and your heat exchanger isn't operating correctly, it may be time to replace your furnace. Knowing the signs of a failing furnace can help you book your replacement before unexpected breakdowns occur mid-winter.

Get a furnace replacement quote with an Enbridge Sustain local Ontario partner today.

WHY IT MATTERS FOR CANADIAN HOMES

What affects furnace lifespan

Your furnace is a complex system, and it's life expectancy can be impacted by several factors:

Installation quality

A furnace that's properly sized and installed by a qualified HVAC professional can affect performance levels. Improper installations performed by uncertified individuals can put strain on your furnace, which can lead to excessive wear and tear and expensive repair costs.

Maintenance and filtration

Annual furnace maintenance performed by certified technicians is recommended in order to change air filters that impact your indoor air quality, and inspect and clean vital components like the burners, heat exchange, blowers, all of which influence your energy efficiency ratings and indoor comfort levels. Scheduling regular maintenance also helps prevent overheating corrosion, and premature heating system replacements.

Runtime and climate

Canadian winters typically run from October until April, which means long hours of operation for months on end. If you happen to live in a colder region of Canada, like the prairies, or up north, your home's furnace will work harder, which can influence how long your furnace lasts, especially if it's not properly maintained throughout its service life.

Fuel type and build

Gas furnaces tend to have longer life expectancies compared to oil furnaces and electric models. High efficiency furnaces may require more annual furnace maintenance, depending on manufacturer recommendations, but still offer an extended service life compared to standard models.

Ductwork and airflow

Leaky ducts can lower heating and cooling system efficiency levels by up to 20%. Well-sealed ductwork can reduce strain on your heating system, and maintain optimal energy efficiency levels that can prevent high energy bills during the winter.

QUICK ANSWER

So, how long should a furnace last? The average lifespan of your furnace can vary based on the type, brand, and model. Here are some average furnace life expectancies below:

• Standard gas furnace: Typically lasts between 15 to 30 years with annual maintenance.

• High efficiency gas furnace: With proper maintenance high-efficiency units can last between 20 to 30 years.

• Oil furnace: Can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years before a furnace replacement is needed.

• Electric furnace or air handler: With annual maintenance, the average lifespan of an electric model is 15 to 20 years.

• Heat pump for heating: An air-source heat pump can last between 10 and 20 years with proper maintenance schedules.

REPAIR OR REPLACE

Unsure whether it's time to invest in a furnace replacement in your home? Here's a quick decision checklist to run through:

• Your furnace is over 15 years old and requires frequent repairs.

• Your repair costs are quoted at 30% to 40% of the cost of a new furnace.

• Your annual repair costs are rising, but your comfort levels remain poor and inconsistent.

• You're experiencing increased energy bills.

• There is visible damage on your furnace (cracks, corrosion, carbon monoxide alarm warnings).

• You want to reduce energy bills through better energy efficiency ratings, enjoy quieter operation, and want to benefit from smart thermostat settings.

Is a furnace replacement in your future? Schedule a free at-home consultation with an Enbridge Sustain partner in Ontario today.

SIGNS YOUR FURNACE IS NEAR THE END OF LIFE

When your furnace is reaching or has reached the end of service life your appliance will do a pretty good job at warning you that a replacement is needed. Here's some signs you can look out for that could suggest that new furnace is needed:

• Inconsistent heating throughout your interior, including hot and cold spots in different areas of your home.

• Rising energy bills, despite not using your heating system any more frequently or at different thermostat settings.

• New or increased noises when your furnace is operating, like rattling, grinding, or squealing.

• Visible damage, like rust, corrosion, or burn marks on your equipment.

• A yellow or flickering pilot flame on gas units.

• Frequent error codes.

• Your furnace is short cycling throughout the day.

WHAT SHORTS OR EXTENDS LIFE

When it comes to keeping your furnace in good working order throughout its lifespan, there are certain factors that can affect your appliance that are within your control as a homeowner. To extend the life of your furnace:

Filters and indoor air quality

Replace your furnace filter (1-inch filter) every one to three months to ensure proper airflow and maintain energy efficiency levels. Clear dust, pet hair, and other debris from your vents that can restrict airflow.

Annual tune-ups

Schedule annual furnace maintenance with an HVAC professional. They will inspect the burners, combustion, heat exchanges, gas valves, and other components. They'll also verify electrical and gas lines to prevent expensive repairs that could have otherwise been prevented.

Thermostat settings and runtime

Installing a programmable thermostat can help you avoid extreme temperature fluctuations that cause your furnace to short cycle and experience accelerated wear and tear.

Humidity and ventilation

Maintain optimal indoor humidity levels (between 30% to 50%) using a humidifier during the winter, turning on your exhaust fans in your bathroom and while cooking, and opening your windows for short periods of time to allow fresh air to circulate.

Duct sealing and airflow

Seal duct leaks to improve air flow and maintain comfort in your home.

LIFESPAN BY FURNACE AND CARE LEVEL

COST, EFFICIENCY, AND COMFORT

• Replacing your furnace a the right time can offer you numerous benefits:

• Installing an ENERGY-STAR furnace can lower your energy costs and carbon footprint.

• Quieter operation and better air flow throughout your home.

• Improved comfort levels, especially when installing a smart thermostat to go with your new furnace.

• Possible rebate eligibility through Ontario's Home Renovation Savings Program.

• A professional installation performed by local Ontario technicians for $0 down and no payments for the first 12 months when you go through Enbridge Sustain's lease-to-own program.

Contact Enbridge Sustain today to learn more!

CANADA-SPECIFIC GUIDANCE

Canadian winters are no joke. When it comes to your furnace lifespan, the local climate conditions in your area can impact your appliance and how well it operates:

• Long winter seasons can increase operating hours and accelerate wear and tear on your unit.

• Construction zones, wildfire smoke, and prairie dust can clog your filters, even when your appliance is not in use.

• Schedule a regular maintenance appointment in the fall to ensure your furnace is ready to go for the winter time.

Not all homes can follow a standard replacement schedule. Being aware of these types of special cases can help you save time, money, and spare your furnace from unnecessary wear and tear.

• New builds or renovations: Construction dust, drywall particles, sawdust, and insulation can quickly cause your furnace filter. Even a brand-new furnace isn't designed to function efficiently in overly dusty environments. In homes that are undergoing renovations, changing your filter every couple of weeks is recommended. Once renovations are complete, a final furnace change is needed to ensure your indoor air quality is restored.

• Vacation homes: If you own a vacation home in Canada, your furnace may sit unused for months on end, which allows dust, dirt, and other debris to accumulate in the system. Before turning your furnace on, replace the filter and consider scheduling a maintenance appointment.

• Heat pumps vs gas furnaces: Heat pumps and gas furnaces should follow similar replacement schedules. If you have a hybrid system, swapping out the air filter in both appliances at the same time is recommended.

• Reusable or washable filters: Reusable filters should be washed gently and fully dried before being reinstalled. Never reinstall a damp filter. Follow your owner's manual to maintain optimal airflow and indoor air quality.