Missoula Furnace Services

Furnace Experts Serving Western Montana 

Countless homeowners rely on furnaces for their heating needs. Modern furnaces are safer and more energy-efficient than ever: Today's models are designed with a focus on minimizing energy waste and reducing harmful emissions, all while ensuring that generated heat is distributed more effectively and consistently.

Is your furnace giving you trouble? Whether your furnace needs routine maintenance, urgent repairs, or total replacement, you can count on Anderson’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for dependable and responsive support. Our Missoula furnace services are built on over 45 years of experience, and our highly trained and certified technicians are ready to ensure your heating equipment keeps your home warm and comfortable. With our satisfaction guarantee, you can enjoy the peace of mind of knowing we will get the job done right!

If your furnace needs professional attention, we encourage you to call (406) 296-5833 or contact us online!

How Long Should My Furnace Last?

The expected lifespan of a furnace greatly depends on its type, with electric furnaces generally lasting longer than gas models. However, the ultimate longevity of any furnace is significantly influenced by regular maintenance, including timely repairs, cleanings, and inspections.

Typically, a well-maintained gas furnace can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, while electric furnaces often have a slightly longer lifespan, potentially lasting up to 30 years. This discrepancy in lifespan can be attributed to the distinct operating mechanisms of each furnace type and the differing levels of wear and tear they tend to experience over time.

Gas furnaces, which are known for their efficiency in heating large spaces quickly, operate by burning natural gas to produce heat. This process involves combustion, which can create more stress on the furnace's components, leading to a shorter lifespan compared to electric furnaces. Furthermore, gas furnaces require a venting system to expel the byproducts of combustion, adding more complexity and potential points of failure to their operation. Regular maintenance, including inspections and cleanings, is crucial for gas furnaces to ensure they are running safely and efficiently over the years.

Electric furnaces, on the other hand, heat the home by passing electricity through coils to produce heat. This method of heating is generally considered to be less efficient than gas heating, particularly in colder climates. With that said, electric furnaces have fewer moving parts and do not rely on a combustion process, which contributes to their longer lifespan and less frequent need for repairs. They are also considered safer, as there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and they do not require a venting system. Despite these advantages, electric furnaces may lead to higher energy bills, especially in regions where electricity costs are high. 

Signs Your Furnace Needs Repairs

The sooner you schedule necessary furnace repairs, the better. Even seemingly minor issues can lead to accelerated wear and tear and even system failures if left unchecked. 

You should not wait to request our Missoula furnace services if you notice any of the following problems:

• Strange noises. While most furnaces make a low-level sound during operation, sudden, loud, or strange noises – such as banging, whining, or screeching – can be a sign of mechanical issues. These sounds may indicate problems like a loose belt, a failing motor, or other internal components that are wearing out.
• Increased heating bills. An unexpected rise in heating costs despite similar usage patterns often points to an efficiency problem with your furnace. This could be due to a variety of issues, from duct leaks to a malfunctioning thermostat or aging components forcing the furnace to work harder.
• Frequent cycling. If your furnace is cycling on and off more frequently than usual, you may have a problem with your thermostat, a clogged filter, or improper airflow. Frequent cycling can put additional stress on your furnace and lead to increased wear and tear.
• Yellow pilot light. For gas furnaces, the pilot light should burn a bright blue. A yellow pilot light could be a sign of incomplete combustion and signal the presence of carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas. Scheduling an immediate professional inspection and repair is crucial in this scenario.
• Poor air quality. An increase in dust, dirt, or even signs of rust in the air or around the vent can indicate that your furnace is not filtering the air properly. This can affect your home’s air quality and could be a sign that your furnace needs repairs or maintenance.
• Trouble starting the furnace. If your furnace struggles to start or doesn’t maintain its cycle, problems with the thermostat, the power, or the pilot light may be to blame. It could also indicate aging components that need replacement.

When Does It Make Sense to Replace My Furnace?

If your furnace needs significant repairs, you may be understandably wondering if it makes more sense to replace it. When you choose Anderson’s Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, you can expect tailored support that includes an honest assessment of what makes the most sense for your comfort – and your wallet.

If your furnace is nearing the end of its expected lifespan – again, approximately 15 to 20 years for gas furnaces and up to 30 years for electric ones – it may be more cost-effective to replace it instead of investing in costly repairs. When the furnace reaches this age, its efficiency tends to decrease significantly, causing heating bills to rise. This inefficiency, combined with the potential for frequent and expensive repairs, makes replacement a smarter choice.

If your furnace requires frequent repairs, and especially if those repair costs start to add up to over 50% of the cost of a new furnace, replacement might be the better option. Not only does this threshold indicate that the furnace is becoming a financial burden, but it also signals that the unit is likely facing a decline in performance. Opting for a new furnace can also bring the added benefits of improved energy efficiency and newer technologies, leading to lower operational costs and a more comfortable living environment.

If your furnace still struggles to heat the house evenly or adequately after – or if its poor performance negatively impacts indoor air quality – then it’s probably time to consider a new furnace. Modern furnaces offer superior airflow and filtration systems that can enhance the quality of air in your home, significantly reducing the presence of dust, allergens, and other pollutants.

Our Missoula furnace services include replacing aging equipment with the latest gas and electric models. We offer payment plans and financing options, so call (406) 296-5833 or contact us online today.