Frequently Asked Furnace Questions with Answers
The following are some of the most typically asked questions regarding furnace size, service issues and the like. Contact us if your specific question is not addressed below.
Follow these steps before you contact a service professional:
1) Make sure the thermostat is turned to the preferred temperature.
2) Be sure you have a clean air filter installed.
3) Verify proper functioning of the power supply. You might need to check the circuit breaker or a wall switch near the unit itself.
4) If your heating is malfunctioning, and your furnace is a gas one, be certain that the gas service is up and running properly.
How frequently should furnace servicing be done?
Heating systems should be serviced yearly. On this schedule, the until will operate efficiently throughout the winter, and the unit’s longevity may be extended as well.
What are some good reasons to buy a new furnace?
There is no doubt that a furnace is a large expense. But, if your current furnace is aging, often requires repairs or is not running efficiently, it may be worthwhile to purchase a new model that may offer up to a 60% increase in efficiency. Getting rid of a furnace that is between 10-15 years old and putting in a new one may lower electricity or gas costs by up to 50%. This makes the initial outlay more than worthwhile over time.
What is the best way to select a furnace?
Lots of heating systems are available nowadays. Our team brings a great deal of knowledge and insight to bear when assisting you in the furnace purchasing process. We assess the age, size and layout of your home as well as the local climate, utility costs, available rebates and more. Taking these factors into consideration, we will be able to formulate recommendations that will maximize function and efficiency. Every technician we employ is trained in the latest technology and can point you to the perfect unit for your home’s needs.
What are the benefits of professional furnace installation?
New furnace equipment is critical, but so is proper, professional installation. Modern heating systems are complex, and to make sure that this significant investment runs as intended, it makes good sense to have an expert perform the installation work. The peace of mind makes any added cost more than worth it.
How costly will a new home heating system be?
In terms of the full cost of a new heating system, it is necessary to consider a number of different factors. These encompass things such as the size of the house, the efficiency level of the new equipment, the existing state of the duct work and more. The technicians with our team will work collaboratively with you to determine exactly the right system to suit your heating needs as well as your personal budget. We provide free in-home replacement estimates to make the process easier than ever.
How do I know what size furnace to purchase?
Many people will be surprised to learn that there is no single method of determining the proper size furnace for a given home. The ultimate decision requires analysis of different variables, including the construction style of the home, the height of the ceilings, window placement and size and more. Considering these things together will lead to a determination of the proper furnace size. Load calculation needs to be done by a professional in order to result in optimal system installation. Contact us to schedule a no-cost review of your furnace needs.
Are higher-capacity furnaces better?
Not necessarily. Large systems that offer greater capacity are more expensive to run and provide less in the way of comfort. Furnaces are least efficient when initially turned on. As such, systems that have excess capacity tend to operate in a series of shorter cycles, resulting in lower efficiency overall.
When is the ideal time for furnace installation?
Furnace installation is best done during the warmer months of the year. However, no matter what time of year, it is wise to have furnace work done whenever a professional technician indicates that a replacement is warranted.
What is a normal furnace replacement timeline?
A typical furnace of standard efficiency will have a lifespan of between 15 and 18 years if routine maintenance is performed. High-efficiency models tend to last anywhere between 12 and 14 years. If you live in a home that is over a decade old, you need to keep a close eye on how your furnace is operating.
What are some ways to lower utility costs?
Simple techniques to reduce utility expenses include turning lights off when they are not in use, running appliances only when necessary and the like. Programmable thermostats are a great way to keep the furnace lower at night and when nobody is home, which in turn cuts energy costs. Furnaces that are high efficiency in nature will also provide costs savings over standard efficiency models. These days, high efficiency furnaces may provide upwards of 97% efficiency, which stands in stark contrast to the 55% efficiency obtainable by standard furnaces of years past.
What is the significance of the ENERGY STAR designation?
Anytime you spot the ENERGY STAR logo on heating and cooling products, you will know that the items have a higher energy efficiency capability, even exceeding federal minimum requirements. Selecting ENERGY STAR heating systems can provide significant utility savings, reductions in air pollution and other benefits, and can do so without any compromise in style or features.
Why are programmable thermostats advantageous?
The many programmable thermostats on the market these days offer a range of features. The fact that they run on electricity makes them far more accurate than mercury-based thermostats. A programmable model makes it possible to adjust your home’s temperature at various times per day without having to do a thing. The automatic nature of these devices ensure that things are always the way you want them with minimal effort on your part.
What kind of air filter is best to use?
High quality air filters really can make dramatic improvements in the efficiency and air quality produced by an HVAC system. By carefully comparing price, size and manufacturer, you can be sure to select the filter that best suits your home unit.