Frequently Asked Questions About Furnaces
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about furnace servicing, sizing and more. If your question isn’t answered in this FAQ section, please feel free to contact us.
Before calling a service technician, please check the following:
– Is the thermostat set at the right temperature?
– Is the filter clean?
– Is the power on? Remember to check the wall switch which should be located nearby the furnace as well as the circuit breaker to ensure that the furnace is receiving power.
– If it is a gas furnace, check whether the gas service has not been suspended.
How Often Does A Furnace Need To Be Serviced?
A furnace should be serviced at least once a year. This will ensure that the unit is operating optimally and efficiently as well as extend the lifespan of the system.
This is largely dependent on the type of unit or system but common signs and symptoms that a furnace does need to be replaced include:
– A delay in ignition.
– Significant rust or corrosion.
– Reduced heat emission or production.
– Bad odors (rotten eggs or sulfur).
– Repeated failure of a pilot light.
Why do I need to buy a new furnace?
Buying a new furnace is a big decision. An older system that is constantly in need of repairs or simply inefficient is not providing you with any benefit. A new system can be as much as 60% more efficient than a furnace that is just 10 years old. Replacing your old unit that is older than 10 to 15 years can reduce your gas or electricity bill by between 30% and 50%.
There are a wide range of heating systems available on the market to choose from and making the right choice can seem overwhelming. Our knowledge and experience in the industry can help your decide which furnace is best to suit your individual needs. The size of your home, the age, number of rooms, local climate, regional cost of utilities and rebate or incentive programs are all factors that need to be taken into consideration. Our professional team will assist you by using the latest technology and taking into account these factors to assist you in choosing the heating system that is just right for you.
Does my new furnace really need to be professionally installed?
Furnace installations are complicated and having the system professionally installed can be just as important as investing in a new furnace that meets your requirements. Professional installation will ensure maximum efficiency while preventing both short and long-term problems that may arise.
What will a new heating system for my home cost?
The cost of a home heating system depends on a number of different factors. The type of system you need as well as the size, efficiency, dimensions of your home, current condition of duct work and many other factors will affect the cost. Our team of professionals will work with you to find a system that meets your needs within your budget. We offer an in-house evaluation and proposal free-of-charge.
It is a common misconception that the optimal furnace size for a home can be deduced using the same formula. However, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration and therefore each calculation is very individual. Variables such as ceiling height, window and room size, placement of the unit and duct system and so many more factors are essential to finding the right size cooling or heating system for your home. An expert load calculation lays the foundation for an effective and efficient system. We provide free home assessments by licensed professionals to determine the ideal furnace size for your home.
Is it better to choose a furnace with greater capacity?
The simple answer is no. A system with greater capacity simply costs more to operate and provides less comfort. Furnaces are at their lowest efficiency when they are first switched on. Systems that have too great a capacity will turn on and off at shorter intervals making them less efficient.
While it is recommended to have a new furnace professionally installed in the warmer part of the year, replacement at any time of year is important if an expert technician has recommended it.
How long should a furnace last before requiring replacement?
A standard-efficiency furnace lasts on average between 15 and 18 years. High-efficiency furnaces should last on average between 12 and 14 years. However, this is dependent on proper servicing and maintenance. If your home and furnace are more than 10 years old, it is time to start monitoring the operation and look out for any problems.
What can I do to reduce my utility bills?
You can save on your utility bills simply by turning off lights, electronics and appliances when they are not in use. Programmable thermostats are perfect for saving on your utility bill as they allow you to set the temperature lower at times when you are out of the house or sleeping. A high efficiency furnace will also provide you with savings as it consumes less energy to operate. The latest furnaces have a maximum of 97% efficiency compared with older standard furnaces that are only 55% efficient.
What is the meaning of the ENERGY STAR logo?
When you see the ENERGY STAR logo on HVAC systems, the unit has a higher efficiency rate than the federal minimum standard. Choosing one of these heating or cooling systems provides you with a more efficient system that saves energy and therefore money on your utility bill. It may also mean that you don’t have to compromise on style, functionality or features.
You can get the greatest efficiency from your system to save energy and money in the following ways:
– Keep the thermostat at the same, constant temperature.
– Make sure that the air filters are cleaned or changed on a regular basis.
– Use a vacuum to suck dust and dirt from the unit.
– Make sure that the system is serviced by a qualified technician at least once a year.
Are programmable thermostats of greater benefit?
There are a variety of different programmable features available for thermostats. These electronic thermostats are far more accurate than mercury-based thermostats allowing you to have better temperature control. You can program the thermostat for certain temperatures at various times of the day or when you go away. The automated system means that you never have to worry about forgetting to set the system manually.
What is the best type of air filter for a furnace?
Choosing a quality air filter will ensure better efficiency and provide cleaner air in your home. The size, cost and suitability are all factors that need to be taken into account when choosing air filters.