Since the average Canadian home uses over 11,000 kWh of electricity annually, keeping your bills low is likely a high priority. Unfortunately, this is impossible when working with an old furnace. You will need to replace it to maximize your home's efficiency.
Read on to learn how age impacts HVAC performance and why installing a new furnace professionally can save money.
What Is the Average Furnace Age Range Before It Needs Replacement?
The answer depends on the types of furnaces your home is equipped with. Gas furnaces will usually last for 15-20 years, but the lifespan will likely be on the low end of the spectrum because of the intensity of Calgary winters.
Electric furnaces across Canada will last a bit longer since they don't have as many mechanical components that break down over time. You can keep them for about 20-30 years.
Oil furnaces last about 20-25 years, but this will depend on how readily available fuel is. You'll need to perform a lot of maintenance to keep them operational.
Many Canadians find that they will need to replace their furnaces after 10-15 years, though, regardless of furnace type. Doing so makes the furnace more efficient and saves money post-installation. This isn't always necessary, but an HVAC inspection can get you more accurate insight.
How Does Age Impact Furnace Performance?
As furnaces age, they require more maintenance. This is also true of the heat pumps they're paired with. Regardless, though, you're going to see some noticeable performance changes, including:
Odd buzzing, clicking, rattling or clunking noises
More frequent breakdowns that require extensive repairs
Soot piling up around the furnace
Uneven heating throughout the room/house
A yellow pilot light rather than a blue one
This could have a massive increase both on your carbon footprint and your electric bill. If you notice that you're paying higher utilities than normal, check your furnace and call in an expert to discuss repairs or replacement.
Why Are Older Furnaces So Inefficient?
An old furnace decreases your home's resale value because they're inefficient. This is because their parts wear down and operate less efficiently.
Mechanical and electrical components are subject to wear and tear after long-term use. When they're ruined, they don't work as well.
What Are the Benefits of Modern Furnaces in Terms of Efficiency?
Modern furnaces have lighter heat exchangers that make them more efficient at warming air than heavier alternatives. This means you don't need to run them as hard, saving you money on electrical bills. The components also don't need to do as much work, which means they'll last longer.
You also can expect changeable fan speeds and sealed combustion chambers. Plus, new two-stage furnaces let you choose the capacity that your furnace runs at so you can save energy while evenly distributing heat.
New furnaces also have electronic ignition systems. This emerging technology reduces natural gas use because the pilot light is no longer necessary.
Start Installing a New Furnace in Calgary
Now that you know how installing a new furnace can save you money, it's time to work with a reputable and experienced HVAC team to help.
We're committed to analyzing furnace systems all across Calgary and improving heating systems. Reach out to Harmony Heating & Air Conditioning Inc for a quote today.