If you are a Texas homeowner, you know that it gets chilly enough in the winter here to run your heating system regularly. This might lead you to wonder just how long you can count on your heater to last. After all, a heating unit is a sizable investment. Let’s look at how long a heating system is likely to last and signs to look out for that indicate a replacement may be on the horizon.
Forced Air Furnaces
Often, homes are outfitted with a forced-air furnace. On average, these types of heating systems can be expected to last from 15 to 20 years. It’s worth noting that they can last significantly longer than this, provided there is minimum strain on the system. This can be accomplished through the practice of professional routine maintenance. During a routine maintenance tune-up of a forced air furnace, a technician performs such tasks as inspecting the wiring, adjusting the belt, and lubricating the bearings.
Boiler System
If your home has a boiler system that runs off steam, these types of heating systems are known to last for 20 to 30 years. One of the key factors for the longevity of a boiler system is the quality of the water that is being used in its operation. If the water is being treated to remove minerals and sediment prior to its entry into the system, it’s likely that your boiler is going to last longer. Just like with any other heating system, routine maintenance is recommended to extend the lifespan even further.
A bit of a different option than a standard boiler is a forced hydronic boiler. These units are designed to transfer heat into your home in a manner that’s considered more efficient than a standard steam boiler. With a hydronic (also known as a baseboard boiler) heating system, a boiler heats up the water and then distributes it through pumps. Heat is radiated with the water by the usage of a heat emitter, most commonly steel or fin-tubed baseboard. Once used, the water is then recirculated to the boiler for reheating, and the cycle begins again. You can expect these types of heating systems to last 15 to 20 years if well maintained.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump is a more modern device and an energy-efficient way to warm and cool your home. During the warmer months of the year, it cools your indoor environment by removing the heat from your home and pumping it outside. During the winter, it pulls heat from the outdoors, transfers it to coolant to provide heat, and then compresses it. This compression process increases the temperature. This warm air is then circulated throughout the home.
On average, a heat pump will last approximately 15 years. Due to their lower maintenance needs and efficiency, many homeowners find that this shorter lifespan is offset by the benefits.
In-Floor Radiant Heating Systems
Radiant heating is a modern way of heating the home and differs significantly from systems like boilers and furnaces. With a radiant heating system, the idea is that your home is heated through the heating of objects like floors. Boilers can sometimes be used for the operation of radiant heating systems, but water heaters are used more often.
With in-floor radiant heating, plastic water tubing is attached to the wood in floors or inside concrete slabs. It is an energy-efficient and quiet heating method although it’s slower than forced-air heating. On the plus side, most homeowners find in-floor radiant heating more consistent and that it requires less maintenance. As far as longevity, these systems can last for several decades.
Signs That It’s Time for a Replacement
Age
If your heating system is reaching the end of its typical lifespan for that type of unit, it’s probably smart to start thinking about a replacement. Eventually, you will have to start dealing with repairs that may end up costing an amount of money that does not make sense when weighed against the cost of a brand-new system. You also may find that an older system is no longer meeting your heating needs or lifestyle. For example, modern heating systems offer more programmability and personalization options that make the comfort of your home easier to control and more convenient.
Excessive Repairs
Once your heating system gets to a certain age, you may encounter the need to repair it more than normal. This can become costly and very frustrating. If you are having this problem, it’s time to consider a new heating system.
High Energy Bills
If you have noticed your energy bill skyrocketing and you have explored all the other reasons as to why this may be the case, the culprit could be the age of your heating system. Your heating system is bound to function less efficiently over time. This is especially the case if it has not been well maintained. This translates to significantly higher energy bills. A new energy-efficient system that you keep maintained is bound to cost you less in your monthly energy expense.
Strange Sounds
You might hear banging, clanking, rattling, squealing, or any other variety of noise coming from your heating system. Some of these noises can be resolved with a quick and easy fix from one of our professionals. Other noises may signify a major problem. If you hear any strange noises coming from your system, it’s important to call our team immediately, just to play it safe. One of our highly trained technicians can look at the system and resolve the issue. If it makes more sense, we can make recommendations for a new heating unit that will fit your needs.
Warranty Expired
Your heating system warranty expiring is not necessarily a reason to get a new system in and of itself. However, having a warranty is a safeguard against heavy repair costs. You may find yourself having to obtain repairs regularly and shelling out money out-of-pocket because your warranty has expired. The money you are spending could be going toward a replacement system that has a new warranty. Then, you will have the peace of mind that if anything happens to your new system, it will be covered.
Your Texas Heating System Team
If you are in Kaufman or Crandall, TX, and it’s time to think about a new heating system, Accurate Home Services is here for you. We are a family-owned and operated company that has been bringing heating and cooling services to the local community for over three decades. We are experts in the installation, repair, and routine maintenance of a wide array of heating systems and provide our services at an affordable price. You can come to us for all your electrical and indoor air quality needs as well. To experience the best heating services in the Kaufman and Crandall area, give us a call today.
