Heating systems are a real investment, so owners naturally want to keep them as much as possible. But, these ways of heating a home have a limited operating capacity over time. Eventually, you will have to replace your heating system. And what better time, just before the temperatures drop drastically? Here is some data on the life expectancy of different heating systems.

 The average life expectancy of heating systems

Bearing in mind that lifespans change depending on installation, location, usage, efficiency, etcHere is an estimate of the lifespan of each heater.

Heat pumps have an average lifespan of around 15 years because they are often used all year round to heat a room or even air condition. Ductless devices, called mini-splits, have a life expectancy of about 15 to 20 years.

Thus, gas or oil furnaces generally last 15 to 20 years and electric furnaces 20 to 30 years. As for electric baseboard heaters, they generally have a useful life of about 20 years.

All the specialists will tell you: the lifespan of appliances depends largely on the maintenance carried out over the years. In the case of a gas oven, the service life can reach 15 years if regular maintenance has been carried out. Because it is easier to operate, an electrical device can achieve at least 20 years of good and loyal service if it has also been well maintained. A forced air electric furnace has a useful life of about 25 years and an electric furnace has a useful life of about 30 years.

Signs to replace your heating system

It is advisable to replace your heating systems before they encounter a breakdown which may be fatal. Generally, you may consider a replacement system in the following situations:

 1.You have quoted and the repair cost is more than half the price of a new unit.

2. Your system is not running securely.

3. You do many expensive repairs each year, which can lead to advanced component wear.

4.Even with proper maintenance, your heating system does not work properly and breaks down regularly.

How to increase the life expectancy of your heating system?

It is possible to act on different levers to keep your heating system in good working order for a longer period of time. Optimal maintenance of your heating system includes regular cleaning and inspections by qualified professionals.

Professionally maintaining and inspecting your vents, ducts and chimneys at least once a year increases the efficiency of your heating system and extends its life.

There are also small things you can do to increase the life expectancy of your heating system. For example, you can replace your heating system filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on your usage routine.

Regularly check your system’s heat exchanger to identify problems early. Oil and gas heaters release combustion gasses into the indoor air when they leak. It may not be easy to spot, but an annual inspection by a professional before turning the system on for the heating season prevents problems.

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