How Long Does a Furnace Last in ontario?

The general answer is 15-20 years. That’s what you will find all over the internet.

But before you close the browser tab and walk away, you really have to understand what that lifespan means and why running an old furnace could actually cost you more than you think.

How Long Does a Furnace Last in ontario?

First, the typical lifespan of a furnace is between 15 to 20 years. However, this can vary depending on the quality of installation, if you’re doing regular maintenance, and how often you’re using the furnace.

Some furnaces are on their last legs at the Year 13 mark while others kick on well into their 20s. Every system is going to be different, but here’s what you can typically expect as your furnace ages:

• Decreased efficiency
• More frequent breakdowns
• Uneven heating in your home
• Increased noise during operation

Most people want to know how long their furnace will last or when they should replace their furnace rather than repair it. You can check out our other post that answers the question of “Replace vs Repair My Furnace?”, but let’s look more closely at what brought you here today.

If you’re looking to see if you can extend the life of your furnace, you certainly can. But you’re going to want to keep some of the following in mind.

The Hidden Costs of Running a Furnace Beyond Its Lifespan

While keeping your old furnace running might seem like a money-saving move, there are hidden costs to consider:

1. Higher Energy Bills: As furnaces age, they become less efficient, consuming more energy to produce the same amount of heat. This inefficiency translates directly to higher monthly energy bills.
2. Frequent Repairs Add Up: Older furnaces tend to break down more often. The cost of these repairs can quickly surpass the cost of a new, more efficient unit.
3. Unseen Safety Risks: Aging furnaces can develop cracks in the heat exchanger, leading to potential carbon monoxide leaks. The cost of ensuring your family’s safety far outweighs any perceived savings from delaying replacement.

Why Hanging onto an Old Furnace Could Actually Cost You More in the Long Run

Keeping an old furnace might seem economical, but it could be costing you more than you realize.

First, modern furnaces are significantly more efficient than older models leading to substantial energy savings over time.

Older furnaces might be models where the manufacturer stopped producing replacement parts. This can make repairs more expensive or even impossible.

Finally, for those that are environmentally-conscious, older, inefficient furnaces consume more fuel and produce more emissions.

The “Extended Lifespan” Trap: When Extending Isn’t Worth It

Trying to extend your furnace’s lifespan beyond its typical lifespan can be a costly mistake for a couple of reasons:

1. Diminishing Returns on Repairs: Typically, after about 15 years, the cost and frequency of repairs often increase dramatically. At this point, investing in repairs may not be worth it.
2. Decline in Comfort and Air Quality: Older furnaces may struggle to maintain consistent temperatures and could circulate dust, allergens, and other particles more easily. It’s hard to put a value on the air we breathe on a daily basis and the long-term impact that can have.

When Does Running an Old Furnace Become Dangerous?

There comes a point when an old furnace isn’t just inefficient—it’s potentially dangerous too. There are real and serious issues to keep in mind including:

• Carbon Monoxide Leaks: As mentioned earlier, cracks in the heat exchanger can lead to carbon monoxide seeping into your home. This odourless, colourless gas is extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening.
• Electrical Fires: Older furnaces may have worn wiring or components that could pose a fire risk.
• Impact on Home Insurance: Some insurance companies may increase premiums or even deny coverage for homes with very old heating systems, viewing them as a higher risk.

so what should you do?

Talk with an expert. Quotes are free and can save you thousands in the long run. We operate out of the Greater Toronto Area, so simply use the button below to schedule a visit where we’ll let you know if your system still has some more good years to go.