What Changed in Furnace Safety Standards Over the Last 20 Years?
A furnace is thought of as a constant, steady presence—unchanging. In reality, a lot about them has changed in the last 20 years. Whether it’s technology advancing or safety standards changing, furnaces just keep getting better.
Learn more about the history of furnace safety standards and when it’s time to replace your furnace.
Older Furnace Safety Limitations
Beyond being more likely to break down—leading to consistent repairs and replacements—older furnaces can be dangerous for you and your family. This is because they were built before certain safety features became standard.
Here are common safety issues older furnaces have:
Undetected carbon monoxide leaks: Some older furnaces don’t have a carbon monoxide detector built in. This means there could be a leak that goes unnoticed because it's odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide leaks can cause serious health risks. Older furnaces are more likely to leak carbon monoxide due to cracks in their internal components.
Overheating: Older furnaces may not have an auto shut-off system when they overheat. When being in constant use during winter, the risk of overheating increases and can lead to fires.
Blocked flues: A blocked flue restricts airflow and can lead to fire hazards, such as soot buildup or even flame rollout. While regular maintenance can prevent clogs, older systems don’t have an alert system for when buildup occurs.
Lack of pressure regulation: Gas furnaces naturally have pressure within them to operate. However, too little static pressure can restrict airflow, not allowing proper distribution throughout your house. Too much static pressure can also reduce airflow, cause lots of noise, and increase fuel use, as well as potentially damaging the system. Without automatic regulations, the responsibility for the pressure level is on you.
If you’re concerned that your furnace has any of the issues above, call 614-405-7819 for an inspection. We serve neighborhoods all over Ohio.
Major HVAC Safety Standard Changes in the Last 20 Years
HVAC safety standards have always been evolving and strengthening. In just the last 20 years, we’ve gotten:
The SEER Minimum Rating
In 2000, the Clinton Administration set the minimum SEER rating we still use today at 10–13 for all air conditioning and heating systems. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.
HVAC manufacturers had until 2006 to create equipment and systems that met that rating.
Recommended: What Is an Energy-Efficient Furnace?
Reducing CFC-Based Substances
In 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) expanded regulations for HVAC technicians who work with chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-based ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in cooling systems.
These regulations were further expanded in 2018—leading to the phase-out of CFC substances in 2020. These substances were considered dangerous both for people and the environment, so any heating/cooling that doesn’t use them is considered safer.
The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act
The AIM Act, enacted in December 2020, allowed the EPA to phase down certain types of refrigerants. Called hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), these substances are potent greenhouse gases.
For the sake of environmental and consumer protection, the EPA has demanded an 85% reduction in HFC production by 2036. The manufacturing and importation of systems that used these substances had to stop starting January 1, 2025.
Modern Furnace Safety Features
As the safety and HVAC industries change and evolve, it’s reflected in newer HVAC systems. Here are some of the modern features of systems that ensure people’s safety:
Smart technology: This technology can track and detect abnormalities in the system’s processes. It also allows users to program the temperature, air quality, and humidity more easily.
Carbon monoxide detectors: Now it’s common to have carbon monoxide detectors built into furnaces, improving everyone’s safety.
Air quality tools: Features like advanced air filtration and UV germicidal irradiation improve indoor air quality.
Limit switches: A limit switch prevents furnaces from overheating—once a furnace reaches a specific temperature, the switch will automatically shut the furnace off.
Pressure switches: Like limit switches, if the furnace reaches a specific pressure level (low or high), it will shut down automatically.
Flame sensors: This safety tool detects whether there are any flames within the furnace (besides the pilot light) and will shut the furnace off.
Improved flue system: Modern furnaces have an improved flue system that is more difficult to clog and easier to clean out.
Furnace door safety switch: This switch automatically cuts power to the furnace when the door opens. This prevents fire hazards, carbon monoxide exposure, and electrical hazards.
When to Consider Replacing Your Furnace
Per Energy Star, you should replace your furnace when:
Your furnace is more than 15 years old. Furnaces can last 10–15 years, and as they age, they become less reliable and more dangerous.
You are constantly repairing your furnace. If you are spending a lot of money on repairs, it’s time to invest in a new furnace and save money in the long run.
Your energy bills are going up. Older furnaces become less efficient, and that means they need more energy to do their job—leading to higher energy bills.
Your home is being heated unevenly. This is a sign your furnace is not working as well as it should.
However, you should also replace your furnace if it’s noisy, emits odd smells, or has visible rust or cracks. These are signs that something is wrong with the furnace and could become a potential hazard.
Upgrade to a Safer, More Efficient Furnace Today
Upgrading your furnace ensures safety and comfort for you and your loved ones for years. Not to mention that you will save money over time with increased efficiency.
Columbus Worthington Air (CWA) can help you choose the right furnace for your needs. Call us today to schedule an appointment. Don’t forget to schedule annual furnace safety inspection appointments, too.