My furnace is nearly twenty years old.
It was already installed when we bought the house.
The heating system has been very well taken care of. The original owners kept a record of annual maintenance and filter changes. They’d enrolled in a service program with a local HVAC contractor that transferred over to use after we purchased the property. I’ve kept up with yearly, professional inspection, cleaning and tuning. I’ve made sure to change the air filter every month without fail. A few years ago, I invested in a smart thermostat to help conserve energy and reduce strain on the furnace. Because of these efforts, the furnace remains operational despite its age. I am reluctant to replace it. The heater has been wonderfully reliable. We’ve had only a couple of minor repairs. It continues to put out plenty of heat and keep us comfortable every winter. However, every fall, the technician who provides the proactive upkeep warns me that the furnace is reaching the end of its lifespan. He explains how it would be better to replace it before winter than face a sudden malfunction and be without heat. He also tells me how much more energy efficient modern furnaces are. I know all this. I’ve looked into the newer models, the AFUE ratings and all the technological advances. I could upgrade to an Energy Star rated furnace and take advantage of zone control. I’m just not ready. I feel a sense of loyalty to the old furnace, and I’d like to see how long it will last. So fair, it shows no signs of failing.