“How long will my furnace last?” This is a typical question of a homeowner in talking to an expert technician. This question is supposed to be a difficult one to answer if you don’t see the furnace in actual physical form. When a technician comes and checks it out, his tendency is to say, “I have no idea, but……” When you hear this answer, it is better that you search for a qualified professional who knows how to figure it out.

In finding the right answer to your question, there are specific standards that most heating specialists can tell you within the industry. Most of its components, whether electrical or not, is replaceable. When professionals discuss how long the life of a heating equipment is, they are referring to the heat exchanger, an essential component to your heating system. The moment it fails, cracks, or creates a potentially hazardous situation, then, replace it.

Follow these things, and you can be sure that your furnace will last longer:

• Maintain it properly – Get a qualified technician to ensure that it’s working properly according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Change the filter regularly – If you fail to do this, your dirty filter will block the amount of air that your unit gets that can lead to overheating. This can lower the lifespan of your heat exchanger. By changing your filter regularly at least every 30 to 60 days, you can be sure that it will make your system run smoothly and efficiently.
• Control the moisture levels – By controlling the levels of moisture from getting too high, you can avoid rusting of your heat exchanger.
• Keeping your A/C coil clean – If an A/C and a coil are installed above the furnace, you have to keep it clean to prevent corrosion caused by leaks from the air conditioner.

So, how long does it really take a heat exchanger to last? 

Typically, it can last from 13 to 20 years with a life span average of 15 years. This can vary according to the model and the quality of your heating equipment. Today, manufacturers generally use a stainless steel or aluminum heat exchanger that is expected to last from 15 to 25 years.

Since this is not a DIY job being too technical, it’s better to look for a professional offering flat rate on materials and labor to check your furnace.