Upgrading Your Furnace: Oil Or Not?

If you're unsure whether to replace your fuel oil furnace, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the average lifespan of a well-maintained furnace is around 15-20 years, so if yours is approaching this age, it may be time for an upgrade. Additionally, if your energy bills are increasing, it could be a sign that your furnace is losing efficiency, which often happens as they get older. Frequent repairs, particularly in the last two years of its life, can also be a sign that it's time to replace your furnace. Other warning signs include strange noises, uneven heating, increased dust and soot, and carbon monoxide emissions, which can be indicated by a yellow flame or family members experiencing flu-like symptoms. Regular maintenance, such as annual tune-ups and filter changes, can help extend the lifespan of your furnace and improve its efficiency. When deciding whether to repair or replace, consider the cost and complexity of the repair, the age of the unit, the decline in efficiency, and the presence of corrosion and unusual noises.

Oil furnace lifespan

The lifespan of an oil furnace is around 20 to 25 years, assuming you have maintained it properly. However, without regular service, you might only get half of that. A well-maintained oil furnace has a much longer lifespan than one that has been neglected.

If your oil furnace is older than 15 years, you may want to consider replacement. As heating equipment gets older, it tends to heat your home less efficiently, and you may notice your energy bills increasing. You might also observe that your furnace needs more repairs in its later years.

If you are unsure how old your furnace is, you can sometimes find this information in the serial number or labels on your equipment. Alternatively, you can look at the original owner's manual or call the manufacturer with the unit's model number.

Other signs that your oil furnace is reaching the end of its life include:

• Strange noises, such as banging, popping, rattling, or squealing
• A burner flame that is yellow or flickering, which could indicate an issue with the air or fuel supply
• Fluctuating temperatures, with some rooms in your home much colder than others
• Frequent repairs or part replacements
• An increase in humidity in your home
• Excessive dust, soot, dirt, or rust particles coming from your furnace
• Visible signs of rust or corrosion on or around your furnace

Cost of replacement

The cost of replacing a fuel oil furnace varies depending on several factors. The average cost of a new oil furnace is $5,700, including the furnace itself and professional installation labor. However, the final cost can range from $3,200 to $9,100 or more, depending on various factors.

One of the main factors influencing the cost is the size of your home and the heating system's capacity. Larger homes typically require more powerful furnaces with higher British Thermal Units (BTU) to adequately heat the space. The cost of a smaller 55,000 BTU unit might be around $6,425, while a larger 150,000 BTU unit could be $9,175 or more.

The efficiency of the furnace also impacts the cost. Standard efficiency furnaces with an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating between 80% and 89% typically cost between $3,500 and $7,500. In contrast, high-efficiency furnaces with an AFUE of 90% to 97% have a higher upfront cost, ranging from $6,000 to $9,175 or more.

The brand of the furnace can also make a difference, with well-known brands commanding higher prices. Additionally, labor costs for installation can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the process, typically ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.

There may also be additional costs to consider, such as ductwork replacement or repair, which can cost between $15 and $40 per linear foot, and the removal and disposal of the old furnace, which can cost between $100 and $450.

Other potential costs include permits and inspections ($50 to $300), a HEPA air purifier or humidifier ($2,000 to $4,000), a new thermostat ($50 to $300), and insulation upgrades ($3,000 to $7,000).

To save money on replacement costs, consider obtaining multiple quotes from HVAC professionals, exploring energy rebates and incentives, and keeping up with regular maintenance to prevent costly repairs.

Warning signs

Age

The average lifespan of a well-maintained oil furnace is around 15-20 years, with some sources giving a range of 12-25 years. If your furnace is close to or beyond this age, it may be time to consider replacing it.

Rising Energy Bills

As furnaces age, they tend to lose efficiency, especially if they have not been properly maintained. This means your furnace may need to run longer to provide the same amount of heat, causing your energy bills to increase.

Frequent Repairs

If your furnace has needed frequent repairs or replacements of multiple parts in the last 2 years, it may be a sign that the end of its life is near. Furnaces are most likely to break down in the last 2 years of their lifespan, and the frequency of repairs is likely to increase.

Inability to Properly Distribute Heat

If you are having trouble getting your house to the right temperature, or some rooms are much colder than others, it may be a sign that your furnace is unable to distribute heat properly.

Strange Noises

Strange or unusual noises coming from your furnace, such as banging, popping, rattling, or squealing, could indicate that something is wrong with the equipment.

Yellow Burner Flame

If you have a natural gas furnace, a yellow or flickering burner flame could indicate a problem with the air or fuel supply, which may lead to carbon monoxide emissions.

Health Concerns

If you or your family members are experiencing frequent headaches, burning eyes or ears, nausea, disorientation, or flu-like symptoms, it could be a warning sign of carbon monoxide poisoning. Other signs of carbon monoxide include streaks of soot around the furnace, absence of an upward draft in the chimney, and excessive moisture on windows, walls, or other cold surfaces.

Poor Air Quality

Older furnaces may struggle to moisturize and clean the air in your home, leading to a dry and dusty environment. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is recommended to consult with a qualified technician to assess the condition of your furnace and determine if replacement is necessary.

Efficiency and performance

The efficiency of a furnace is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This reflects how much of the fuel consumed by the furnace is converted into heat for your home, with the remainder being lost (often up the chimney). Modern oil furnaces typically have an AFUE rating of 80% to 90%, while gas furnaces tend to be rated between 89% and 98%. So, while gas furnaces are more efficient, oil furnaces may be a better choice for heating larger homes in cold climates.

It's worth noting that the efficiency of an oil furnace can decline over time. If your oil furnace is more than 15 years old, its efficiency may have dropped to around 70%. A furnace that is more than 20 years old is likely to be even less efficient, at around 60%. Therefore, it is important to maintain your oil furnace properly and consider replacing it if the efficiency drops significantly.

When deciding whether to replace your oil furnace, you should also consider factors such as the age of the furnace, any signs of wear and tear, and the cost of running an older, less efficient furnace. Additionally, the size and capacity of the furnace you choose will impact the replacement cost, with larger homes requiring larger furnaces. Other factors that can affect the cost of replacement include the complexity of the installation, the brand and model of the furnace, labour rates, and any necessary ductwork modifications.

Maintenance

Maintaining your oil furnace is essential to ensure it is running smoothly and efficiently. Here is a comprehensive guide to oil furnace maintenance:

Preventative Maintenance

This type of maintenance is done to prevent potential problems with your furnace. It involves having a professional inspect your heating system and replace any old parts, even if they seem to be working fine. Preventative maintenance should be performed at least once a year, preferably before the winter season when your furnace will see the most use. If you live in a colder climate and use your furnace frequently, you may want to schedule maintenance every six months.

Reactive Maintenance

This type of maintenance is performed in response to a problem. Some parts may wear down, break, or stop working over time, requiring repair or replacement. While regular preventative maintenance can reduce the need for reactive maintenance, accidents can still happen.

Scheduled Cleaning

Your furnace should be cleaned regularly to remove buildup and ensure the combustion process works smoothly. Scheduled cleaning prevents the buildup of dangerous gases and toxins, which can enter your home if left unchecked. It also improves the efficiency of your furnace. You can clean your furnace yourself by turning it off, letting it cool down, and using a vacuum to remove dust and debris from the furnace, burner, and blower cavities. However, it is recommended to hire a professional for a thorough cleaning and inspection.

Oil Tank Filters

It is important to change your oil tank filter regularly, as debris and particle buildup can affect the efficiency of your heating system. Oil tank filters should be replaced at least once a year, preferably in the fall before the temperature drops.

Furnace Filters

Furnace filters play a crucial role in protecting your indoor air quality by trapping particles. A dirty filter can impact the air quality and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. Furnace filters should generally be changed every three months, but this may vary depending on factors such as pet ownership, smoking indoors, and the presence of excess dust.

Professional Maintenance

At least once a year, it is recommended to hire a professional to perform a furnace inspection, cleaning, and tune-up. Professionals have the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively work on your oil furnace. They will check the fuel lines, burner, vacuum readings, flame sensor, and other essential components.

Oil Furnace Troubleshooting

If you notice any issues with your furnace, such as excessive smoke, increased fuel consumption, or sudden shutdowns, you may need to call a professional for repairs. Some basic troubleshooting steps include cleaning the air filter, ensuring the furnace has enough fuel, and checking the thermostat settings.

Annual Protection Plans

If your oil furnace is older and showing signs of wear and tear, you may consider signing up for an annual protection plan. These plans typically include annual maintenance, emergency repairs, parts, and labour, and can cost a few hundred dollars per year.

Oil Furnace Lifespan

The lifespan of an oil furnace is typically around 25 years, depending on regular maintenance and preventative care. Older furnaces may have lower fuel efficiency, with a 15-year-old furnace having 70% fuel efficiency and a 20-year-old furnace having 60%.

In summary, maintaining your oil furnace involves a combination of regular cleaning, filter replacements, professional inspections, and prompt troubleshooting and repairs. By following these maintenance steps, you can ensure your furnace runs efficiently, safely, and effectively throughout the winter season.

Frequently asked questions