Everyone knows Calgary weather is unpredictable and gets unbearably cold! Calgary gets snow for over five months of the year, sometimes even in July! That is why it is so important to have your furnace working at its best all year round. You don't want to get caught with a broken furnace when you need it most. Read on for an in-depth guide to the life expectancy of a furnace and learn when furnace services are needed.
WHAT IS THE LIFE EXPECTANCY OF A FURNACE?
Most modern gas or electric models have a furnace life expectancy of 15 to 30 years. On average, the life expectancy of a furnace in Calgary is on the lower end of that scale. This is because the furnace works hard for most of the year, keeping the home or office warm through extreme weather. The life expectancy of a furnace depends on a few factors. Equipment that is serviced on a regular maintenance schedule lasts longer than ones that don't get furnace care. A furnace operates with multiple parts and if one of these essential parts becomes defective it affects the whole system. A furnace that is the wrong size for the building also affects the furnace's life expectancy. A system that is too small runs longer and harder and puts more wear on the machine.
REGULAR FURNACE SERVICES
Most furnace manufacturers recommend a yearly inspection by a professional technician. Most warranties also require regular furnace service to stay valid. But it's not just for warranties that maintenance is essential. A regular inspection makes sure your equipment is working to its full capacity. This extends the life expectancy of a furnace by:
Checking the venting system for blocks or leaks
Checking the seals
Ensuring air intakes are working
Inspecting the heat exchanger for damage
Checking the wiring for corrosion
Doing an amp-draw test on the motor
Gas and electric units have unique furnace services for their specific type. The technician will ensure the proper tune-up is done for your system.
WHEN TO REPLACE OR REPAIR A FURNACE
There are a few tell-tale signs that your furnace requires repair or replacement. If your unit is at least 15 years old, start preparing for an upcoming replacement. Regular service prolongs the life expectancy of a furnace and keeps unexpected replacement costs down. Signs it's time for an upgrade include:
Higher heating bills than usual for the time of year
Systems start making strange and loud sounds
Rooms in the house are hotter or colder than normal
System cycles on more than usual
Also, if your system is older than 20 years, it is not running at current energy-efficient standards. Upgrade to an ENERGY STAR certified system to reduce energy consumption.
SCHEDULE YOUR FURNACE MAINTENANCE NOW
At Neptune Plumbing & Heating Ltd., we offer certified quality services for both residential and commercial buildings. The life expectancy of a furnace will be extended with efficient, regular furnace care. Our goal is to fix your heating issues in as little time as possible!
The Neptune Furnace Maintenance Program offers you routine service to keep your heating system working its best. A cozy home is essential for a happy and healthy life in Calgary, Alberta! Contact us today to schedule your furnace services.