Your furnace matters – even in Texas. Sure, our Dallas winters are mild, but when those cold fronts hit, you’ll want your heating system ready to go.
We get a lot of questions about furnaces here at Bolton Heating & Air. Homeowners in Forney and across DFW want to know how long their furnaces should last. They worry about common problems. They ask us when they should think about replacing their old units.
These are smart questions to ask. A furnace is a big investment in your home’s comfort. Whether you live in a brand-new house in Forney or an established home in Dallas, knowing the basics about your furnace can save you money and headaches down the road.
Our team has fixed hundreds of furnaces across DFW. We’ve seen what breaks, what lasts, and what matters most in our Texas climate. Now we’re sharing what we’ve learned to help you take better care of your heating system.
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Furnace?
A typical furnace in our area lasts 15-20 years. In Dallas-Fort Worth, most furnaces work hard year-round. They help move cool air in summer and provide heat in winter. This dual job affects how long they last.
Your furnace’s lifespan depends on several key factors:
- How well it was installed
- Whether it gets regular maintenance
- The type of furnace you have
- How much you use it
- Your home’s size and layout
Dallas weather is unique. One day it’s 75 degrees, the next day it’s 35. These swings make your furnace work harder than furnaces in other parts of the country.
What Makes a Furnace Last Longer?
Want your furnace to reach its full lifespan? Here are some simple tips that work well for Texas homes:
- Get it checked twice a year
- Change your filters monthly
- Keep your vents clear
- Pay attention to strange sounds or smells
At Bolton Heating & Air, we’ve seen 25-year-old furnaces still running strong because their owners took good care of them. We’ve also seen 8-year-old units fail because they were neglected.
Signs Your Furnace Is Nearing the End:
- Your energy bills are climbing
- The furnace makes new or loud noises
- Some rooms are colder than others
- It needs repairs more often
- The burner flame is yellow instead of blue
- You’re seeing more dust around your vents
What Is the Most Common Problem of a Furnace?
The number one issue we see is dirty filters. While it might sound simple, a clogged filter can cause:
- Higher energy bills
- Weak airflow
- Uneven heating
- System overheating
- Early wear on parts
The second most common issue is thermostat problems. Sometimes what seems like a broken furnace is just a thermostat that needs new batteries or proper settings.
What Fails First on a Furnace?
Our service records show three components typically fail first:
1. Ignitor
- Usually fails after 5-7 years
- Clicks but won’t start
- Takes several tries to turn on
- Won’t light at all
2. Flame Sensor
- Starts then quickly shuts off
- Runs for just a few seconds
- Refuses to light for safety
3. Blower Motor
- Makes strange noises
- Produces weak airflow
- Causes higher energy bills
- Runs longer than usual
What Is the Most Expensive Repair on a Furnace?
The heat exchanger is the most costly repair, ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 in the Dallas area. This isn’t just an expensive repair – it’s also dangerous. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into your home.
Other major repairs include:
Blower Motor Replacement
- Cost: $500-1,500
- Common in Texas due to year-round use
- Usually needs replacement after 15-20 years
Control Board Replacement
- Cost: $400-900
- The furnace’s brain
- Can fail due to power surges or age
Draft Inducer Motor
- Cost: $400-800
- Helps vent dangerous gases
- Often fails in older units
When to Repair vs. Replace
Here’s a simple rule we share with our Forney customers: If your repair costs more than half your furnace’s value and your unit is over 10 years old, consider replacement.
Think about it this way:
- Repairs under $500 on a newer furnace? Usually worth fixing
- $1,000+ repairs on a 15-year-old furnace? Probably time for a new one
- Multiple repairs in one year? Start shopping for a replacement
The Good News About New Furnaces
Today’s furnaces are more efficient than ever. A new unit can:
- Cut your energy bills
- Heat your home more evenly
- Run quieter
- Last longer
- Keep your family safer
Need Help Deciding?
Every home in DFW is different. That’s why we offer free consultations. We’ll look at your:
- Current furnace age and condition
- Energy bills
- Home size and layout
- Budget
- Comfort needs
Keep Your Home Warm and Safe This Winter
Remember these key points:
- Most furnaces last 15-20 years in Texas homes
- Regular maintenance prevents expensive repairs
- Dirty filters cause most common problems
- The heat exchanger is the most expensive repair
- Three parts typically fail first: ignitor, flame sensor, and blower motor
Take Action Today:
- Check your furnace’s age
- Look at your latest energy bills
- Listen for unusual sounds
- Pay attention to how evenly your home heats
- Mark your calendar for regular maintenance
Living in Forney or nearby? We’re right around the corner. Our team at Bolton Heating & Air can help you:
- Check your furnace’s condition
- Fix small problems before they grow
- Plan for future replacement
- Keep your family warm and safe
Call us today at (214) 909-7615. Winter’s coming, and we’re here to help.