Are Gas Furnaces Being Phased Out?

Thanks to new and ongoing research, scientists are now aware that gas appliances are strongly linked to cancer, childhood asthma, and heart disease. While news headlines have primarily focused on gas stoves, these health problems are correlated to all types of gas appliances. In addition, gas furnaces are known to harm the environment. Because of this, California recently announced that they would be moving to phase out gas furnaces over the next few years.

Are Gas Furnaces Getting Phased Out?

California has announced that it will be phasing out the sale of gas furnaces and water heaters in 2030. The state is implementing this ban because of the impact that natural gas has on the ozone.

Currently, a large portion of California has more than 70 parts per billion of ozone in the atmosphere. This is higher than the Environmental Protection Agency’s limits. The new rule would help to limit ozone levels in the state.

While you can turn to Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help with all of your heater installation, repair, and maintenance needs, you don’t have to get rid of your old furnace right away. You can keep using your current furnace and water heater as long as they are fully functional. When you eventually need a replacement for your furnace, you will have to invest in a zero-emission furnace.

On a national level, some residential gas furnaces will also be phased out. The United States Department of Energy (DOE) finalized a rule in 2023 that would phase out non-weatherized gas furnaces and furnaces in mobile homes by the end of 2028. In place of these inefficient models, the DOE would require more efficient replacements. On a national level, high-efficiency gas furnaces would continue to be allowed.

Why Gas Furnaces Will Be Phased Out

Although headlines often focus on the negative impact gas furnaces have on your health, California is updating its furnace policies for a different reason. Gas furnaces have a demonstrable impact on the ozone. Because of this, California is phasing out gas furnaces to protect the environment. The federal rule change is being adopted for similar reasons.

Can I Continue Using My Gas Furnace?

Riverside and Corona residents don’t have to panic. If you have an existing gas furnace in your house, you can continue using it. Even after the phase-out goes into effect, California will still allow gas furnaces in residential homes.

The major difference will be the type of furnace replacement you can purchase. In 2030, you will no longer be able to buy a new gas furnace to replace your existing gas furnace. However, our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) team can continue to repair and maintain your existing gas furnace after this date.

How to Prepare for the Ban on Gas Furnaces

If you have an existing gas furnace, you can avoid an expensive replacement by caring for your furnace. We generally recommend getting your heating system inspected once a year. During this inspection, a qualified technician will look for underlying issues. Then, we can repair these problems before they spiral out of control.

In the next few years, it’s a good idea for homeowners to start planning for a replacement. While our company offers financing options, you can also save money to pay for a furnace replacement. A typical furnace lasts for 15 to 30 years, so you can get many more years out of your existing furnace if you care for it properly.

To keep your furnace functioning as long as possible, we recommend that you perform the following maintenance activities.

• To improve the furnace’s efficiency, clean your vents on a regular basis.
• Schedule a furnace inspection at least once a year.
• Get your furnace ducts repaired. Leaky ducts can make your furnace to work harder, causing additional wear over time.
• Change your air filter every one to three months.
• Remove any clogs from the drainage tube.

Get Help Replacing Your Old Furnace

At Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we have years of experience in helping Corona and Riverside residents get the heating and air conditioning services they need. Besides gas furnace replacements, we can help with your air conditioning maintenance, indoor air quality services, drain cleaning, and water heater repairs. To learn more about our available heating services, reach out to one of our team members today.