When you are deciding to buy some equipment for your home and comfort, especially HVAC systems, it is one of the biggest investments. That’s why when homeowners are planning about buying an oil furnace the most frequently asked question is how long do oil furnaces last?
Understanding and keeping the factor of life expectancy matters a lot in choosing something. This helps you in making right decisions related to maintenance, avoid frequent breakdowns and in making right and informed replacement decisions.
In this comprehensive guide from MileHi HVAC we will tell you about lifespan of oil furnaces, factors that influence them, comparison with other systems and tips to maintain the lifespan of a system.
Understanding average lifespan of oil furnaces
The average life expectancy of an oil furnace is between 15 to 20 years. But this is not the constant but it depends upon life expectancy, its maintenance and quality of installation.
Also a big advantage and plus point of an oil furnace is that its oil furnace life expectancy is more than the other heating components.
Factors that affects the lifespan of furnace
Here are some factors through which your furnace lasts 15 years or more.
Regular maintenance
For extending the oil furnace life expectancy one of the biggest factors is its maintenance. If you ensure proper annual tune ups includes:
- Proper airflow
- Clean burners
- Efficient fuel combustion
So when homeowners don’t pay attention to regular maintenance it significantly shortens the average life expectancy of an oil furnace.
Quality of installation
If your furnace is poorly installed then its efficiency would be reduced and it causes long term damages. That’s why installation matters a lot for optimal performance of your system. Our experts at MileHi HVAC offer professional installation of furnaces and ensure efficient performance from day one.
Fuel quality
The fuel used for working of an oil furnace also matters. A clean and high quality heating oil prevents any buildup and protects the oil furnace from internal damage.
Usage Patterns
As furnaces installed in colder regions are harder to operate because of air quality and this factor affects their life expectancy.
System size and efficiency
When you are choosing a furnace for your home make sure to select the correct size according to your home. As oversized or undersized furnaces lead to improper functioning and affect the oil furnace life expectancy increasing wear and tear.
Signs your oil furnace is near the end
As you already have some idea about how long do oil furnaces last there are some warning signs of failure that homeowners should know:
- Frequent rise in energy bills
- Uneven heating
- Strange smells
- Flame becomes blue instead of yellow
- Unexpected costly repairs
So if your oil furnace shows these types of warning signs then it means that the system is approaching the end of average life expectancy of an oil furnace.
Oil vs gas furnace lifespan
When comparing oil vs gas furnace lifespan it is observed that oil furnaces’ life expectancy is more than gas furnaces due to heavier and durable construction. Oil furnaces have an average lifespan of 15-25 years while gas furnaces have lifespan of 10-20 years. The main purpose behind more lifespan of oil furnaces is that they build up with higher combustion temperatures, operates in longer heating cycles. However gas furnaces are more efficient and require less maintenance. It is a best choice to consider despite its shorter lifespan. So the decision of oil vs gas furnace lifespan upon your own choice and priorities whether you prefer long term durability, energy efficiency or lower maintenance.
Read More: Oil Furnace Replacement Cost.
Steps to extend the lifespan of your oil furnace
If you want a longer lifespan and efficiency of your system then follow these several steps.
Schedule annual maintenance
Schedule proper maintenance of your system with experts like MileHi HVAC for ensuring efficiency and best performance.
Clean the system
Regular cleaning on your own helps in maintaining oil furnace life expectancy. As the sediment buildup is one of the major problems in oil furnaces.
Replace the filters regularly
As proper air flow is very important for system effective performance. Dirty air filters restrict the flow of air and cause strain on the system.
Check the level of fuel
As oil furnaces function with the usage of oil, frequent running out of oil damages the system and reduces the average life expectancy of an oil furnace.
Upgrade components
If you notice any worn out parts, replace them urgently as this action prevents larger failures.
Signs you should replace your furnace
Although you ensure proper maintenance of your system, it can’t last forever. With time it needs replacement due to some issues. So it is recommended that homeowners should consider replacement when:
- Oil furnace is over 20 years old
- System energy efficiency is dropped significantly
- Repairs becomes more frequent and costly
So if your system is nearing the end and you notice these signs which are reducing oil furnace life expectancy. So in these situations shifting to a modern unit is the one of the best decisions.
Modern oil furnaces benefits
Modern oil furnace have some advantages as compared to traditional ones like:
- Lower emissions
- Higher energy efficiency
- More improved safety features
- Better temperature control
So if you upgrade your system before reaching the average life expectancy of an oil furnace is one of the smartest and justified financial decisions.
Choose our professional team at Milehi HVAC
For any help related to installation or maintenance of oil furnaces feel free to contact our professional and certified team at MileHi HVAC. We are experts in oil furnace installation, maintenance and tune ups, repairs and upgrades. We make sure that your system reaches its maximum oil furnace life expectancy while operating safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
So how long does an oil furnace last? The average answer is typically 15-25 years but it can even extend more than these years if maintained properly.
So understanding the average life expectancy of an oil furnace, knowing about its warning signs and comparing oil furnace vs gas furnace lifespan will help you in making informed decisions according to your home and budget. Keep your heating system running safely and efficiently all winter with expert furnace repair in Denver—schedule your service today with MileHi HVAC for dependable, professional care.
FAQs
What is the average lifespan of oil furnaces?
Depending on usage and upkeep, an oil furnace can last anywhere from 15 to 25 years on average.
Do gas furnaces have a shorter lifespan than oil furnaces?
Indeed, because of their sturdy design, oil furnaces typically have a longer lifespan than gas furnaces.
What shortens an oil furnace’s lifespan?
An oil furnace life expectancy may be shortened by faulty installation, low fuel quality, and neglect.
After 20 years, should I replace my furnace?
Indeed, in order to save expensive maintenance, the majority of furnaces that are approaching their typical life expectancy should be assessed for replacement.
How can I extend the life of my oil furnace?
The lifespan of your furnace can be considerably increased with routine maintenance, filter replacements and expert servicing from MileHi HVAC.
