As a Northeast Ohio homeowner, understanding your furnace’s lifespan and following a maintenance schedule is essential in keeping your home warm and cozy during our unpredictable winters. Regardless of what city you call home, the type of furnace in your home can significantly impact longevity and performance.
Let’s explore what you can expect from gas, electric, and oil furnaces and what you can do to keep them running smoothly for years.
As a Northeast Ohio homeowner, understanding your furnace’s lifespan and following a maintenance schedule is essential in keeping your home warm and cozy during our unpredictable winters. Regardless of what city you call home, the type of furnace in your home can significantly impact longevity and performance.
Let’s explore what you can expect from gas, electric, and oil furnaces and what you can do to keep them running smoothly for years.
Gas Furnaces: The Warm Heart of Your Home
Heat pumps stand out in the HVAC world because they can reverse their operation based on heating or cooling needs. In warmer months, they extract and release indoor heat outdoors, similar to an air conditioner.
Gas furnaces are popular in Ohio and known for their efficiency and reliability. On average, a well-maintained gas furnace can keep your house warm and cozy for 15 years. These units are a favorite because they offer a fast heating response and are cost-effective, especially when the winter winds start howling.
Advantages:
- Cost-efficient heating with natural gas.
- Quick and effective at warming your home.
Watch Out For:
- Regular HVAC maintenance helps prevent issues such as uneven heating or the furnace suddenly blowing cold air.
- Keep an ear out for unusual noises, which could signal it’s time for a check-up or repair.
Electric Furnaces: The Quiet Comforter
Electric furnaces are another home heating option. These units, which operate on electricity only, have an expected lifespan of 20 years when cared for properly. They are incredibly reliable and perfect for homeowners seeking an easy-to-maintain HVAC system.
Advantages:
- With a longer lifespan, Electric HVAC systems generally require less maintenance.
- Ideal for homeowners in search of a quieter heating system for their home.
Watch Out For:
- Although less frequent, issues such as reduced heating efficiency or unexpected system shutdowns can still arise. Regular check-ins by a professional can keep these troubles at bay.
Keeping Your Furnace in Top Shape
No matter what type of home furnace you have, completing regular maintenance and timely repairs helps keep the unit running optimally.Â
An annual check-up by a professional HVAC technician can prevent unexpected breakdowns and supports a long and productive lifespan.
Remember, completing simple maintenance tasks such as replacing filters, keeping the area around your furnace clear, and promptly addressing any signs of trouble can save time and money over the long run.
When an older HVAC system starts showing signs of wear, it’s crucial to recognize the red flags before they become more significant problems. Here are some telltale signs:
- Unusual Noises: If your HVAC system makes rattling, buzzing, or whistling sounds, mechanical problems or airflow blockages could be to blame.
- Inconsistent Temperatures: When treated air doesn’t distribute evenly, some rooms in your home might be too hot while others are too cold.
- Rising Energy Bills: If your HVAC system loses efficiency, it must run more frequently to maintain comfort. As a result, your energy bills might increase.
- Frequent Repairs: Are you calling for repairs more often? If so, it might be time for a replacement.
- Poor Air Quality: An increase in dust or a musty odor flowing through your heating vents can indicate your system isn’t filtering air as effectively.
Embracing the Future of Home Heating
On the upside, replacing older HVAC units with a modern furnace can change everything. Homeowners can benefit from the efficiency and environmental friendliness of modern home heating systems. If your furnace is nearing the end of its expected lifespan or showing signs of significant wear, it’s a proactive step in protecting your home and your loved ones.
Your Partner in Home Comfort
We recognize the importance of a warm and welcoming home at Westland. From routine maintenance to new heating system installations, we ensure your furnace keeps you comfortable for years.
Remember, there is a lot you can do to keep your HVAC system running optimally. With a trusted and experienced HVAC partner, you can maximize the warmth and comfort in your home, whether it’s a bit chilly or the Nor’Easter winds are blowing in snow and Arctic air. Here’s to many more cozy winters in Ohio, warmed by the reliable furnace that keeps your home just how you like it.
Contact Westland Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing today for all of your furnace needs!
