What Is the Lifespan of a Heating Unit?

Knowing the lifespan of your heating unit can help you assess if it’s time for you to replace the HVAC system you currently have. The lifespan of a heating unit varies from system to system, but on average most heating units will last anywhere between 15 and 30 years. Water heaters tend to have a slightly shorter lifespan, often ranging from about 10 to 20 years, with tankless water heaters generally lasting longer than tanked water heaters.

If you’ve noticed that your home isn’t staying warm or that your heating bills have steadily been on the rise, it might be time to replace your heating system. Call an HVAC expert when you begin noticing signs of a heating problem so you can stay warm this winter and save money on your energy bills with a more efficient system.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Heating Unit

Other common signs that your heating unit needs to be replaced include:

• Rattling or loud noises
• Excessive dust 
• Inconsistent temperatures room to room
• Home humidity problems
• It needs frequent repairs
• Poor or weak airflow
• Visible cracks in the unit
• Age of the unit

Lifespan By HVAC Unit Type

• Furnace: The average furnace can last a home 15 to 20 years, but some furnaces can last longer. It’s possible to extend a furnace’s lifespan through regular, detail-oriented maintenance. When your furnace reaches the 15-year mark you should begin looking for newer models that can help you save money by being more energy efficient.

• Boiler: Most boilers can last around 15 years. If your boiler is nearing this age, you should begin looking for a replacement unit. Newer boilers may also be significantly more efficient and save you money on your heating costs.

• Heat Pump: A heat pump typically lasts between 10 and 15 years. Heat pumps are capable of both heating and cooling a building. They tend to experience more wear and tear than dedicated furnaces since they’re often used throughout the year.

• Ductless Mini-Splits: Ductless heat pumps tend to have similar lifespans to heat pumps attached to central air systems. Owners typically get between 10 and 20 years of performance out of their mini-split systems, although frequency of use and maintenance can impact longevity.

• Radiant Heating: Radiant heating is one of the most long-lived types of heating units. You can expect your radiant heating system to last several decades.

• Baseboard Heating: Electric baseboard heating units on average operate for around 20 to 30 years, but they can last longer with proper maintenance and care.

Replacing certain types of systems can be extremely costly. For example, baseboard and radiant heating may require you to tear out baseboards or flooring to reach and replace or repair the system. One of the benefits of furnaces or heat pumps is the unit itself can be replaced without needing to modify or replace ductwork.

Why Is Heating Unit Maintenance Important?

Your heating unit should undergo maintenance at least once a year to extend its lifespan, maintain its efficiency and prevent breakdowns that will lead to heating outages and expensive repairs. During maintenance, an HVAC technician can tighten any parts that are loosening in your unit, lubricate moving parts and check for potential problems that may cause system failures during the upcoming heating season.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Heating Unit?

The cost of replacing a heating unit varies depending on where you live and the heating unit you plan to replace it with, but the average cost ranges from $5,000 to $10,000.

Commercial or Residential Heating Service, Replacement or Repair in Southlake, TX

When it’s time to schedule furnace maintenance or you need to replace your home’s heating unit, contact the qualified experts at Tom’s Mechanical Inc.

We’ve been serving the residents of Tarrant County for over 60 years, and we pride ourselves on providing exceptional HVAC and plumbing services to local clients.

We are available 24/7 for emergency service and strive to quickly address any breakdowns that disrupt your home’s heating, cooling or plumbing. Call us at 972-388-3669 or contact us online for non-emergencies.