Author: Eric

Why Is My Toilet Leaking At The Base?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on Why Is My Toilet Leaking At The Base?

A toilet leaking at the base is a common problem. If you notice your toilet is leaking at the base, you definitely should not use it until it is fixed. Unsanitary dirty water can spill out onto your floor. The water most likely from the bowl.. This water could have an unpleasant odor, and it can be damaging to the floor. To keep the leak from doing more damage, you should turn off water to this commode and call a licensed plumber to get the problem fixed right away.

Negative Effects from a Toilet Leaking from the Base

When a toilet is leaking at the base, it can cause mold to grow. It can also lead to higher water bills and it can cause damage to your flooring and other aspects of your home. You should ensure that the problem is addressed quickly before it gets worse and before you end up having to spend more out of pocket on the repairs and on fixing the other issues caused by the leaking commode.

You should inspect the toilet to make sure that the leak is indeed coming from the bottom of the toilet and not from somewhere higher up. A higher leak could drip down the sides of the commode then pool up on the floor giving the appearance of a leak at the base. There are different causes for leaks at the base, so you need to inspect the toilet closely to determine the cause of the problem.

Common Causes for a Toilet Leak

Here are some things to check and the two leading causes for the base of a toilet to leak:

The t-bolts used to fasten the toilet onto the floor could need tightening up. Just remove the plastic covers at the base then tighten the bolts, making sure that you don’t over tighten them as that could crack the porcelain base.
Another reason that the toilet leaks at the base could be because you need a wax ring to seal in the section connecting the drainpipe and toilet. You should shut off the water to the toilet, disconnect the line that supplies water, unscrew the t-bolts, then remove the toilet and lay it on its side. Remove the old wax ring and clean the area before you place the new on the bottom of the toilet and reinstall the commode.

After you have fixed the problem, you will want to make sure you reinstall the toilet properly. As you do so, check it for any other problems. You will need to make sure that the wax ring is pushed in and a seal is created. Make sure the t-bolts are screwed into place, but that they are not too loose and that they are not too tight. Be sure to center and level the toilet.

You will need to reconnect your water line and then turn the valve back on. Flush your toilet a couple of times to make sure that there are no leaks. If there is still a leak, you will want to make sure that you call a professional plumber because it will need additional troubleshooting. A professionally trained plumber will be able to determine what is the cause for the problem and will make sure that the issue is addressed in the most effective and most efficient way possible.

Even what may seem like a minor leak can cause extensive damage, so it requires immediate attention. Since the leaking water is coming from the toilet bowl and is dirty, it can be hazardous to the health of your family. If your toilet is leaking around the base and you are having difficulty determining the root of the problem, call Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning today. We will send out a highly skilled plumber to take care of the problem and to ensure your toilet is free from leaks and any other problems.

6 Signs Your Water Heater is Failing

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on 6 Signs Your Water Heater is Failing

Hot water heaters are one of the most consistently used pieces of equipment in the home. Even when you’re sleeping, your water heater is working to keep several gallons of water hot and ready. Most water heaters tend to last between 8-12 years under optimal circumstances.

It’s important to have an understanding of what to look for to determine when the unit is approaching the end of it’s life span. Below are 6 key signs to look for when determining how much longer a hot water heater should last.

Hot Water Supply Diminishing

You may notice your hot water runs out earlier than usual and isn’t replenishing itself very quickly. Perhaps the water heater is continuously running to keep up. The build-up of sediment and corrosion can slow down how quickly it heats water and limits its ability to keep the water supply warm. If you discover you have no hot water at all, your heater may have failed.

Noise

An aging water heater that is suffering from corrosion and build-up from the water flowing through it will start to get hardened sediment on the bottom of the tank. It is stirred up when water heats or moves through the tank and makes noise. Not only is the sound of the sediment inside the heater annoying, it’s also a good indicator that your heater is no longer working efficiently because the sediment makes it more difficult for the heating element to keep the water heated. This leads to the metal getting corroded and brittle with increased potential for leaks. If your heater is making noises, be sure to get it checked out.

Moisture or water around the heater

A tank that’s corroded and cracked will start to leak. Most tanks will rust from the inside out, and there might not be any visible evidence that it’s failed. Some condensation on a water heater is normal, but if it’s running down the side of the tank or pooling, it’s a sign of trouble. Even just a little dampness on the floor beneath or near the water heater could indicate a problem. Before you replace the heater, inspect fittings, connections, and pipes that are leading to and from the tank to ensure they aren’t the problem. If there is a lot of water, you should call a plumber right away.

Rusty or discolored water

If water coming from your home’s fixtures is brown or reddish, check to see if this occurs when you have both hot and cold water flowing or only when hot water is turned on. If the rusty color shows when hot water is turned on, it could be a good indicator that your hot water contains corrosion, and you should check the heater itself. You can draw hot water directly from the heater to see if the rust is coming from the heater versus your pipes.

Age

A lot of water heaters don’t last for 12 years, and if yours has survived longer than that, it may be living on borrowed time, especially if you live in an area with hard water. If the water heater is in a place where it could cause severe damage if it fails, it’s best to consider replacing it before it develops a leak. Manufacturers use date codes for their water heaters, and most will have this information on their website so you can assess how old your unit is.

Corroded Anode Rod

The design of most tank-style water heaters has not changed much in the last 50 years. Tank-style heaters have a “sacrificial” anode rod made up of magnesium, zinc, or aluminum with a stainless steel core suspended in the water that attracts the elements in the water that would otherwise corrode the rest of the tank. However, once the anode rod is corroded, metal elements in your water will start to be drawn to other metals and will start to damage the tank of the heater. The first and most obvious sign that something is going wrong with your water heater is the corrosion of the sacrificial anode rod. Water softeners, acidic water, and other factors can accelerate the corrosion of this element and, eventually, your water heater. Some water heaters are designed to allow a technician to replace the anode rod, and it should be checked every few years. For most residential heaters, it’s impractical to remove the anode rod, so be sure to ask ahead of time if the expense will outweigh the cost of replacing the heater itself. If the anode rod has been corroded and only the steel core or wire remains, it’s definitely time to replace it. If the corrosion has spread the water heater, it may be too late, and you’ll have to replace the entire unit.

Planning for regular maintenance for your water heater, including flushing its water, can extend its life and keep it functioning efficiently. Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning replaces hundreds of water heaters each year. Give us a call and we’ll help you out!

Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Plumbing. No Comments on Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Not only does a running toilet sound obnoxious, but it can also waste hundreds of gallons of water. If you notice your toilet running, get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid any unpleasant surprises on your next water bill. How can you tell what’s causing your toilet to run? We’ve covered some of the most common causes of a running toilet, how to fix them, and when to call in the pros.

Common causes of a running toilet

Wear and tear on the toilet flapper
The toilet flapper is the rubber seal that stops tank water from flowing into the bowl. When you flush the toilet, a chain attached to the flapper lifts the seal up, allowing clean water to flow through into the bowl.
Toilet flappers accumulate wear and tear over time. Cracked or worn-out toilet flappers are one of the most common causes of a running toilet. If you push down on the flapper and the toilet stops running, you’ve identified the problem.

Improper chain length
If the toilet flapper itself isn’t the problem, the chain attached to the flapper might be too long or too short. Check the chain to see if it’s getting trapped under the flapper or if it’s not long enough to seal the flapper.

Float misalignment
There are two types of floats: cup floats and ball floats. Most modern toilets are equipped with ball floats. Floats are also called ballcocks and float valves.
The float regulates the water level. When you flush the toilet, the float rises up to a certain point, causing the toilet to stop running.
If the float is cracked or positioned too high, water will flow into the overflow pipe, causing your toilet to run. If the float touches the side of the tank, it may be misaligned. Unless the float ball is cracked, you can usually fix this problem by adjusting the float arm.

Malfunctioning fill valve
As its name suggests, the fill valve is the mechanism that refills the toilet bowl after a flush. If you’ve checked the flapper and float, the fill valve could be the cause of your running toilet.
If the water is rising too high and running into the overflow tube, you may need to clean or replace the fill valve.

How to figure out what’s causing your toilet to run constantly
The easiest way to tell what’s causing your toilet to run is to look inside the tank. If you’re checking the flapper or float, you won’t need to turn off the water supply. If you’re replacing the flapper or fill valve, you’ll need to turn off the water supply first.
Once you’ve identified the cause, you’ll usually find the supplies you need at your local hardware store. But before you start drawing up a shopping list, make sure you’ve isolated the problem. You wouldn’t want to replace the toilet flapper only to find that your toilet is still running.

Got a running toilet that needs fixing? Call the Denver plumbing pros

Fixing a running toilet could be as simple as replacing a worn-out flapper and as complex as replacing the whole fill valve assembly. If you’re confused just looking inside the tank, give us a call. We’ll have your toilet up and (not) running promptly!
Golden West technicians are licensed, bonded, and insured for your peace of mind. No Denver plumbing job is too small. Call us or start a chat with us today to schedule your appointment.

Customer Service is Crucial – Here’s how we do it Golden West

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Company Information. No Comments on Customer Service is Crucial – Here’s how we do it Golden West

We often take for granted the technologies and equipment that keep us comfortable and healthy, like water heaters, sewer lines, furnaces, and wifi thermostats. It’s probably safe to say most of us don’t even think about these items on a daily basis, until one of them or stops functioning as expected.

Repairs and replacements are inherently stressful. After all, HVAC and plumbing problems disrupt your life and your comfort. This is just one reason why our team is compassionate and attentive. To us, you’re not just another job, you’re a human being with a busy life. You need your systems repaired promptly so you can focus on the important things.

That’s why top-notch customer service isn’t just a buzzword or a hollow promise here at Golden West. It’s the core of our business philosophy. From the moment you land on our website, our plumbing and HVAC live chat window will greet you. From there, you can connect with us to schedule your job or ask questions. You can also call us right away by clicking on one of the phone numbers on our site.

Once you’ve scheduled your appointment, our technicians will go to great lengths to respect your home, health, and personal space. We wear protective gear, including shoe coverings, gloves, and masks while on the job to keep everyone safe. We work quickly and efficiently to solve your problem and keep you comfortable.

Throughout the job, we’ll even talk you through every step of the process. Education is a big part of what we do. We believe homeowners should have a basic understanding of how their plumbing and HVAC systems work to prevent future problems. But when problems inevitably arise, we’re standing by 24/7 to assist.

Finally, we know that repairing plumbing and HVAC systems can be an unexpected expense, which is why we offer financing for qualifying jobs. We get the job done now, you pay later.

These are just a few ways we go above and beyond to serve our customers. Of course, we don’t expect you to take us at our word. We know most customers like to read reviews before choosing a service. We’re proud of our 1,500+ 5-star Google Reviews and our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Check out this testimonial from one of our many happy clients:

“Great experience with Golden West all around. The phone was answered promptly when I called. The rep was polite and friendly and answered all of my questions patiently. Chris V arrived in the window and I was given a call to confirm. The guys explained the process, gave me an estimate to repair or replace, and got to work. About 30 minutes later my swamp cooler was working and I was educated. Thanks again for the great service.” – Mike B.

This is just 1 review out of thousands.

Not only do we serve our customers, but we also serve our community. Our annual scholarship program provides financial support to students majoring in engineering, home design, and home improvement. We’re proud of our commitment to help students achieve success in their education and their career.

Rain or shine, day or night, our team is here to assist with plumbing and HVAC emergencies big and small. Start chatting with us or give us a call to discuss your home service needs.

Maintain a Healthy Indoor Air Quality

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Maintain a Healthy Indoor Air Quality

When many people think of air quality, it’s the outdoors that comes to mind. Large-scale pollution, allergens, and other things that affect the air we breathe are visible and apparent outside. What about inside our house? There are particles that can cause poor indoor air quality inside our homes. Some of them can even be scentless and invisible. Let’s figure out the best ways to improve our indoor air quality.

IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY:
Understanding and identifying sources of contaminants can help ensure your home is safe. Even the cleanest homes have dust, mold (even if you don’t see it), and other indoor pollutants. So what is the best way to filter these harmful substances?

Eliminate moisture substances – When there is moisture, there is the opportunity for mold. For any high moisture areas, make sure they are properly taken care of. If you have any minor plumbing leaks, it is good to address them right away. Mold can be dangerous. And mold spores in the air can be harmful.
Good housekeeping – If you do find mold, make sure it is cleaned as soon as possible. You can use 10% bleach and 90% warm water or contact a professional company. Other good housekeeping tactics include vacuuming carpets on a weekly basis and keeping towels and linens regularly cleaned.
Ventilate properly – Circulation of air throughout your home is important. Make sure that your ventilation systems work properly. A quick tip that we tell homeowners is to keep their exhaust fans in their kitchen and bathrooms clean of any dust to have them work at maximum efficiency.
Air filters – This is a big one. You should be changing your air filters on a regular basis. Your filters capture unwanted pollutants and dust particles. Golden West changes air filters for homeowners every single day. If you choose to change them on your own, make sure to dispose of them properly so the particles in the filters do not get back into the air.
Cleaning agents, paint, and other chemicals – We have all used strong smelling cleaning agents or painted inside a house. Make sure that these are tightly sealed when you are done using them. If there is a strong odor in the house, open the windows.
Fireplaces, space heaters, and gas stoves – These can be problematic if they are not vented outside properly. It’s important to do a self inspection to have a professional inspect these on a regular basis.

Our Commitment at Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning

At Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we’re fully committed to keeping our customers safe. We always advise our customers to use best practices when it comes to keeping their air quality at a healthy standard. Give us a call and we would be happy to assist with any air quality needs!

Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace?

Winter in Denver is mild compared to other areas in Colorado. But the Mile-High City still gets bitterly cold. No one wants to wake up in a cold house or confine themselves to one room when the heating stops working. Homeowners who find themselves in this predicament face a tough decision: “Should I repair or replace my furnace?”

Furnace repair could require anything from quick fixes to major repairs. Certain issues are beyond repair and require a replacement instead. Here are a few ways to tell if you should repair or replace your furnace. Remember, when in doubt, call the Denver furnace repair pros!

Signs that you need to repair your furnace

Your heating bill is higher than usual.

If you’re not using more heat but your energy costs have increased, it’s a good idea to book a furnace repair appointment. General wear and tear could decrease the unit’s efficiency. Find a furnace repair service near you to identify and fix the problem.

Your furnace isn’t producing enough heat.

A clogged air filter could be the culprit behind this issue. But if you’ve checked the filter and the furnace still isn’t producing adequate heat, it could be time for a furnace repair. If the furnace is on but heat isn’t blowing through the vents, the blower motor might need replacing.

Be sure to book your furnace repair as soon as possible after noticing issues with heating and ruling out simple fixes. A malfunctioning part increases the risk of other components breaking, which could lead to higher repair costs.

Your furnace makes a lot of noise.

Strange noises like rattling, whistling, and clicking are alarming and obnoxious. The issue could be as simple as a loose screw or as complex as a broken furnace blower motor. No matter what kind of noise you’re hearing, a noisy furnace needs professional attention.

Signs that you need to replace your furnace

Your unit is over 15 years old.

Annual tune-ups are essential for maximizing the lifespan of your unit. Some furnaces can last up to 30 years, but that’s the exception, not the rule. The average lifespan of a furnace is between 12 and 18 years. If your furnace is around the 15-year mark, it’s time to start shopping for a new one.

The cost to repair your current furnace is more than half the cost of replacing it.

A new furnace costs anywhere from $2,500 to over $6,500, according to HomeAdvisor. And that’s not including installation costs.

Most Denver furnace repair professionals will recommend replacing the furnace outright if repair costs exceed half the price of a new furnace. High repair costs often indicate that the unit will need future repairs.

You notice soot around the heating vents.

During an annual inspection, a furnace repair technician will remove any soot built up in the furnace itself. But if there’s soot coming up through your vents, call the pros immediately.

Soot in the vents could mean there’s too much carbon dioxide in your furnace. This can damage furniture and impact indoor air quality. Inhaling the soot could also cause breathing problems and other symptoms.

Soot could also be a sign of a dangerous explosion within the furnace called a puff back. A puff back occurs when excess fuel builds up in the combustion chamber. As soon as you notice soot in your vents or smell burning, call an emergency furnace repair service near you.

Should you repair or replace your furnace? Wrapping up

Sometimes it’s hard for a homeowner to know whether a furnace repair or replacement is needed.

Before you break out the user manual, remember that your furnace is a complex machine. Attempting a DIY furnace repair could lead to all sorts of dangers, like fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning.

If you’ve noticed any of the above warning signs, call a furnace repair professional near you.

Book your Denver furnace repair or replacement today

Even if your furnace is in tip-top shape, annual maintenance is essential to keep your heating system running smoothly. Call Golden West, the Denver furnace repair pros, today to schedule your annual furnace tune-up before the cold weather hits!

5 Tips for Saving Energy and Staying Warm This Winter

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on 5 Tips for Saving Energy and Staying Warm This Winter

Autumn is a cozy season filled with hearty family meals, hot apple cider, and fun fall festivals. It’s also the perfect time to prepare your home for bitter winter weather.

Did you know heating is the biggest energy expense for Colorado homeowners? The average homeowner spends $500 on heating every year. Poor insulation and inefficient heating units are the main causes of high heating expenses. Proper insulation and more energy-efficient heating systems can slash these costs by up to 20% annually.

Even if you don’t need to replace your current unit, there are a few things you can do to save energy this winter. (And stay toasty warm while you’re at it.) Let’s dive in to some of the most effective tips for saving energy, not just in winter, but in all seasons. Our advice goes beyond installing LED lightbulbs and turning down the thermostat.

Insulate your old water heater

If your water heater is an older model and you’re not in a position to replace it, consider wrapping it in an insulating blanket. This simple tip can save you over 15% on your annual heating costs. It also reduces lost heat by up to 45%.

Insulating blankets are inexpensive, starting at just $20. But not all water heaters will require insulation. Here are a few things you should know before insulating your water heater:

If your water heater is warm to the touch, it could benefit from an insulating blanket.
Newer models likely don’t need an insulation blanket.
Avoid insulating blankets if your water heater has an R-value of 24 or higher.
Do not insulate a leaking water heater. This will need to be replaced.
If your water heater is electric, you might also want to insulate the underside of the tank for an additional 10% savings on lost heat. However, this is best done if you’re installing a new unit.

Got questions about insulating your water heater? Give us a call today to schedule your appointment. You’ll receive personalized advice on saving electricity in the winter for your home and needs.

Lower the temperature of your water heater if you’re planning to travel

Traveling out of town to visit relatives over Christmas? Before you leave, be sure to turn down your water heater.

Running a water heater costs $440 a year on average. You could reduce that amount by up to 10% a year by lowering the temperature even a few degrees.

If you’re planning to travel over the holiday period, consider lowering the temperature since your water won’t be in use.

Winterize your windows and doors

The first step for winterizing your home is to identify leaks in windows and doors. One of the easiest ways to do this is with the smoke test. Turn off any fans or heaters. Light a stick of incense and hold it near the window or door frame. If the smoke blows sideways, you might have a leak.

Plugging drafty doors and windows is easy and relatively inexpensive. You have a few options to choose from:

Caulking
Window films
Door seals
Weatherstripping tape

Once you’ve found and fixed drafty windows and doors, be sure to put your blinds and curtains to good use. On sunny days, let natural warmth in by opening the blinds. On cold nights, draw your blinds or curtains to prevent heat from escaping and cold from entering your home.

Swap out your old appliances for newer, more energy-efficient alternatives

According to a fact sheet published by Colorado State University, older furnaces and hot water heaters are roughly half as efficient as newer units.

Upgrading to a new energy-efficient unit is a considerable investment in the short-term. But it’s one that will quickly pay for itself in energy savings. Not to mention that homeowners using Energy-Star certified appliances often qualify for a tax credit.

Got questions about energy-efficient appliances? Our technicians have answers. Get in touch today to discuss your needs.

Have your heating system inspected annually

If you’re not already having your heating system inspected each year, now’s a good time to start. Scheduling a heating inspection now could save you a lot of time and money later.

During your inspection, our HVAC technicians will identify necessary repairs and potential problems. We pride ourselves on prompt, efficient service. Education is a big part of what we do. If you have any questions during your assessment, please don’t hesitate to ask.

These energy saving tips will serve you well this winter. But they’re also general tips that everyone can put into practice.

Want personalized guidance on saving energy? Call Golden West today to schedule your maintenance appointment. Your technician will review the efficiency of your heating system and make recommendations based on your needs and budget.

How to Prepare for Your HVAC Service Appointment

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on How to Prepare for Your HVAC Service Appointment

It’s safe to say many homeowners don’t stop to think about their heating and cooling systems until they malfunction. Booking your first HVAC service appointment can be a daunting task for inexperienced homeowners.

Need a replacement or repair? Here are a few things you can do to prepare for your appointment, plus a few questions you should ask your technician.

Preparing for your HVAC service appointment

Here are a few things you should do to ensure your HVAC service appointment goes smoothly.

When booking your appointment, describe your needs using as much detail as you can. The more your tech knows about the problem, the better they can assist you. Taking photos and knowing roughly when the issue started is helpful. Compile documentation of previous maintenance on the unit if applicable.
Clear the work area of any clutter or obstructions. Repairing and replacing HVAC systems requires a safe work environment. Make the workspace easy to access and remove any clutter or obstructions. Outdoor units require at least one foot of clearance on all sides.
Secure pets and children. This is for their own safety as well as the technician’s.

7 questions to ask your HVAC technician

There’s no such thing as a silly question regarding HVAC systems. These units can be a large investment to purchase and replace, so if you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Here are a few questions we encourage customers to ask before, during, and after their appointment.

What experience and qualifications do you have servicing homes like mine?
Although many HVAC company websites often provide this information, it’s best to double-check. At the bare minimum, your preferred HVAC company should be able to provide you with proof of insurance, show pictures of previous work, and customer testimonials. Our techs will be glad to discuss similar jobs to yours.

How do you handle quotes and payment?
Find out upfront if any overtime or hidden fees apply. If your technician offers a quote over the phone, take that as a red flag. While technicians might offer a rough estimate for common repairs, an in-home examination is needed to determine the cost and scope of the job, particularly for installations.

To avoid delays, confirm accepted payment methods with your HVAC servicer before the appointment. Our technicians will always offer upfront pricing, options, and no hidden fees.

Can you talk me through the job so I know how to maintain my HVAC systems?
Any experienced technician should be willing to educate you on how to maintain your HVAC systems. All homeowners should have a basic knowledge of how their heating, ventilation, and cooling systems work. Not only does this ensure their comfort, but it could also prevent major problems down the line.

Our technicians take pride in educating our customers. If you have any questions about maintaining your systems before, during, or after the job, just let your tech know.

What products do you recommend for my needs and budget?
If you’re replacing a unit, discuss your options with your technician beforehand. Address any budget concerns then and there to prevent any unpleasant surprises.

Our technicians will recommend replacement units based on their observations and your situation. We will never recommend products that don’t suit your needs or are out of your budget.

What are some ways I can save energy?
This is a common question our technicians receive, and we’re always happy to answer it. Your tech can evaluate your current systems and recommend ways to optimize it.

These might include replacing a window unit with an energy-efficient cooling system or installing inexpensive window films. Instead of simply Googling how to cut energy costs, you’ll receive personalized advice at no extra cost to you.

Do you offer 24-hour emergency services?
It’s always better to find out whether your local HVAC company offers 24/7 services
before you need them. Golden West offers 24-hour emergency service 7 days a week. Give us a call and we’ll be sure to help with any needs.

Do you offer financing?
HVAC repairs, maintenance, and replacements can be an unexpected investment for homeowners. If you’re concerned about price, ask if the company offers financing.

We offer financing for most jobs — your systems are repaired now and you pay later.

Book your Denver HVAC appointment today

Whether you need a repair, replacement, or just an annual check-up, Golden West has got your Denver HVAC needs covered. Contact us today to request an HVAC service in Denver and the surrounding area.

When you choose Golden West, you’re choosing to support a family-owned and operated local business. Our technicians are professional, highly experienced, and fully qualified. Read one of thousands of reviews from our satisfied customers to discover why we’re A+ rated with the Better Business Bureau.

How Long Does a Furnace Last? A Quick Guide

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on How Long Does a Furnace Last? A Quick Guide

How long does a furnace last? Different sources will give you different answers. Some say 15 years, some say 20. Others say newer furnaces can last as long as 30 years.

Those answers are all technically correct. But it’s important to remember that several factors influence how long a furnace lasts, including:

the type of furnace
when the furnace was made
how well and how often it’s maintained

Generally, the average lifespan of a furnace is between 12 and 18 years. On average, a furnace needs replacing after 15 years. Some newer models can last between 20 and 30 years.

Let’s explore which factors affect your furnace’s lifespan. (Plus a few things you can do to keep your furnace in good condition.)

Types of furnaces

When you think of furnaces, you probably picture a gas furnace. That’s just one type of furnace. Let’s take a look at a few others.

Gas furnaces

Gas furnaces are one of the most common types of residential furnaces. Natural gas heats nearly 50% of American homes. In Colorado and surrounding states, that number is slightly higher at over 65%.

Older gas furnaces aren’t as efficient as their newer counterparts. New models are up to 98% efficient, compared to older models with a maximum efficiency of 65%. Additionally, older furnaces aren’t as durable, lasting between 12 and 18 years on average.

How many years should a gas furnace last? That largely depends on when it was made and how well it’s maintained. New models could last as long as 30 years. On average, gas furnaces last between 16 and 20 years.

Oil furnaces

You won’t find many oil furnaces in Colorado. These are most common in the Northeast. While they’re less expensive than a gas furnace, they’re also less efficient at 85% on average. They do tend to last a little longer, with an average lifespan of 25 years.

Electric furnaces

Many modern homes come equipped with an electric furnace. This type of furnace is just as efficient as a new gas furnace and can last up to 10 years longer. The unit itself is less expensive than a gas furnace. But the higher cost of electricity will quickly surpass those initial savings.

Maintain your furnace to maximize its lifespan

The average lifespans we’ve mentioned above assume that the furnace is serviced each year. Without annual maintenance, a furnace likely won’t last as long as they could.

Annual maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs. It also protects your warranty’s eligibility. Some manufacturers void the warranties of units that aren’t inspected regularly.

Finally, proper maintenance ensures your furnace works at peak efficiency all winter long. A local furnace repair technician can replace clogged filters and worn-out parts before they cause bigger problems.

How to maintain your furnace

If you’re like many homeowners, you might search for DIY fixes before calling in the professionals. But your furnace is a complex machine. Not to mention a dangerous one, especially if something goes wrong during a DIY repair.

Attempting to fix something yourself can cause anything from fire hazards to carbon monoxide poisoning. To keep your home and family safe, avoid attempting to service your furnace yourself. Instead, call your local furnace repair technician. Watch them while they work and ask them to walk you through the process. They’ll guide you through maintaining your furnace safely step-by-step.

Any furnace repair company that doesn’t allow you to be part of the process isn’t worth your time or hard-earned money. As the premier Denver furnace repair business, we take great pride in educating our customers. We believe all homeowners should know how their systems work. This not only prevents problems, but it also teaches you how to recognize and respond to furnace-related hazards.

How long will a furnace last? Wrapping up

Ultimately, how long your furnace lasts depends on how well you take care of it. Keep your furnace in tip-top shape and it could serve you for 20 years or even longer. If your furnace is 15 years or older and requires constant repairs, it’s time to start shopping for a new one.

Rather than trying to maintain your furnace yourself, book a service appointment with a professional. It’s as easy as searching “furnace repair near me”.

Book your Denver furnace repair or tune-up today

Winter has arrived early this year in the Mile High City. Book your Denver furnace repair or maintenance appointment today to stay toasty all winter long. Our expert technicians are trained to service all types of furnaces. We pride ourselves on delivering prompt, polite, and professional service — rain, shine, sleet, or snow.

Booking a Denver furnace repair in 2020 is vastly different compared to previous years. Rest assured that we take every precaution to protect your family, your home, and your health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about our health and safety procedures, and let us know if you have special requirements for your appointment.

What Can Cause a Furnace to Stop Working?

Written by Eric on December 11, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on What Can Cause a Furnace to Stop Working?

What can cause a furnace to stop working? You might be surprised to learn it’s not always the furnace’s fault. A powered-off switch, faulty thermostat, or air duct issues could be to blame.

Let’s look at some of the most common culprits behind a malfunctioning furnace.

What can cause a furnace to stop working? 8 potential causes

Furnace switch powered off

Furnace power switches often look like light switches. It’s easy to turn them off, thinking you’re turning out the light. Before checking for other issues, make sure the power switch is turned on.

Furnace door safety switch

This is one of the first problems you should rule out before checking everything else. The safety switch stops the furnace from working when the door is removed.

If you’re recently removed the furnace door for whatever reason, make sure the safety switch has been reactivated.

Dead batteries in the thermostat

This is obviously a problem with the thermostat, not the furnace itself. Check to see if your thermostat is working. If there’s no power, change the batteries. Lithium batteries last much longer than alkaline batteries.

Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse

If the thermostat is on but there’s no warm air coming through the vents at all, check your circuit breaker or fuse box. If the breaker has tripped, you’ll need to reset it. Or, change the fuse.

Broken thermostat

If you’ve changed the thermostat batteries and your furnace still isn’t working, your thermostat could be broken. Several issues could cause a thermostat to malfunction, including:

Faulty wiring
Dust and debris
Malfunctioning transformer
Broken heat anticipator

If your thermostat isn’t functioning properly, consult your local HVAC experts for recommendations on new equipment and installation services.

Clogged filters

This is one of the most common culprits behind a malfunctioning furnace. If your furnace isn’t producing enough heat, chances are the filters are clogged.

Furnace filters trap dirt, fine particles, and other debris. Warm air can’t flow through clogged filters. The furnace might not stop working outright, but it will be much less efficient.

Filters should be changed once every season, about every 3 months. Annual maintenance can prevent filters from getting clogged and save you money on repairs and lost energy.

Air duct issues

Inconsistent heat is a tell-tale sign that your air ducts are the issue, not the furnace. If you notice one room is significantly warmer or colder than the others, your air ducts are likely leaking.

Inspect your ductwork for any obvious signs of damage. If your furnace is working properly, you should be able to feel heat escaping through the leaking ducts.

Sealing the leaks with duct tape could be a temporary fix. But there’s always a chance that a small leak will be left behind. Your local furnace repair experts have the tools and equipment needed to permanently seal leaks.

If you can’t find any leaks, the problem could be as simple as opening the dampers that control airflow into each room. But if they’re open and the heating is still uneven, it’s a good idea to call your local HVAC service. Some leaks are small and hard for homeowners to detect.

Age

Even the best-maintained furnaces will need replacing eventually. If your furnace is more than 15 years old and suddenly stops working, it’s time to replace it. You’ll end up paying more to repair an old furnace than to replace it.

Related: How long does a furnace last?