Why Older Furnaces Often Need More Frequent Repairs

As your furnace ages, it naturally becomes more prone to wear and tear. While a well-maintained furnace can last 15 to 20 years, older systems often require more frequent repairs and attention. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why older furnaces tend to need more repairs and what homeowners can do to prevent costly breakdowns and ensure their system continues to run efficiently.

1. The Aging Process of Furnace Components

Wear and Tear on Internal Parts:

Over time, the internal components of your furnace experience general wear and tear. Parts like the blower motor, heat exchanger, and ignition system can start to break down, leading to more frequent repairs. As these components wear out, the furnace has to work harder to maintain the same level of comfort.

What This Might Mean:

1. Frequent breakdowns: The more worn-out parts your furnace has, the more likely it is to experience malfunctions that require attention. 
2. Higher repair costs: Older furnaces often require more expensive parts and labor to repair, which can add up quickly. 

What to Do:

1. Schedule regular maintenance: Regular tune-ups can help catch potential issues early, preventing major breakdowns and extending the life of your furnace. 
2. Consider component replacement: If you notice that a specific component is repeatedly breaking down, it might be more cost-effective to replace it rather than continually repairing it. 

2. Reduced Efficiency of Older Furnaces

Older Furnaces Are Less Energy Efficient:

As furnaces age, their efficiency decreases. Older models, especially those that are 15 years or older, often have lower AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings. This means they use more energy to heat your home, which can lead to higher utility bills.

What This Might Mean:

1. Increased energy consumption: An older furnace will need more energy to achieve the same level of heating, driving up your monthly heating costs. 
2. Inconsistent temperature regulation: Older systems may struggle to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the home, leading to hot and cold spots. 

What to Do:

1. Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model: If your furnace is more than 15 years old, replacing it with a newer, more efficient model can help you save on energy costs and reduce the frequency of repairs. 
2. Seal leaks in ducts and vents: While upgrading your furnace is a great option, sealing air leaks in ducts and vents can also improve your system’s overall efficiency. 

3. Difficulty Finding Replacement Parts for Older Models

Scarcity of Parts for Outdated Models:

One of the main challenges of owning an older furnace is the difficulty in finding replacement parts. As furnaces age, manufacturers stop producing parts for older models, and it can be difficult to source the necessary components to make repairs. This can lead to longer repair times, higher costs, or even the inability to fix your furnace.

What This Might Mean:

1. Longer repair times: Searching for hard-to-find parts can delay repairs, leaving you without heat for longer periods. 
2. Increased repair costs: Some replacement parts for older models are discontinued or expensive, leading to higher repair costs when you do find them. 

What to Do:

1. Consider a furnace replacement: If your furnace is old and finding replacement parts is becoming a challenge, it might be time to consider replacing it entirely with a more modern system. 
2. Work with an experienced HVAC professional: Experienced HVAC contractors often have access to a network of suppliers who can help source parts for older systems. If repair is possible, make sure to hire a skilled technician who can manage the process efficiently. 

4. The Strain on the Furnace System

Older Systems Have to Work Harder:

As parts wear down and efficiency decreases, older furnaces must work harder to maintain the same heating output. This added strain can lead to frequent breakdowns and reduced overall system life. An overworked furnace is also at a higher risk of complete failure if critical components fail.

What This Might Mean:

1. Increased breakdown frequency: The harder your furnace works, the more likely it is that parts will fail. 
2. Shortened lifespan: Over time, the constant strain on the furnace will cause it to break down more frequently and may lead to an earlier replacement. 

What to Do:

1. Invest in a maintenance plan: Regular maintenance checks and repairs can help keep your furnace in optimal condition, reducing the strain on the system. 
2. Consider system replacement: If your furnace is constantly breaking down or struggling to keep up with demand, it may be time to replace it with a newer, more efficient model. 

5. Safety Concerns with Aging Furnaces

Older Furnaces Pose Safety Risks:

Aging furnaces can present a range of safety concerns, from malfunctioning gas valves to cracked heat exchangers. A cracked heat exchanger, in particular, can cause dangerous carbon monoxide leaks, which pose serious health risks to your household.

What This Might Mean:

1. Carbon monoxide leaks: A cracked heat exchanger can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, a potentially lethal situation that requires immediate action. 
2. Fire hazards: Old furnaces with damaged wiring or components may pose a fire risk if not properly maintained. 

What to Do:

1. Schedule a thorough inspection: If you own an older furnace, make sure to have it inspected regularly by a professional to catch any potential safety issues before they become a serious threat. 
2. Install carbon monoxide detectors: Always have working carbon monoxide detectors near your furnace and throughout your home to protect against leaks. 

6. How to Extend the Life of Your Older Furnace

Prolonging Furnace Life with Careful Maintenance:

While older furnaces may require more frequent repairs, regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan. Here are a few maintenance tips to keep your furnace running longer and more efficiently:

1. Change air filters regularly: Dirty filters reduce airflow, making your furnace work harder and less efficiently. Replace filters every 1-3 months. 
2. Clean the furnace regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate inside the furnace, causing components to wear out faster. Schedule professional cleaning to keep it in top shape. 
3. Check the thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is working properly to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on the furnace. If you have an old thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable model. 

Conclusion

Older furnaces are more prone to frequent repairs, decreased efficiency, and safety concerns. While regular maintenance can help extend the life of your furnace, it’s important to consider replacement if repairs become too frequent or costly. If you’re unsure about the condition of your furnace, D-N-D Services can help. Our professional technicians can inspect your system, offer repair recommendations, and provide advice on whether a replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run.