Benefits of New Heater Installation
The new year is the perfect time to invest in a new heater! Installing a new heating system has many benefits, including increasing the home value, lowering heating costs, improving safety, and reducing the home's carbon footprint. Here are some tips from HVAC professionals on knowing if it is time to replace the heating system, how to choose the right heater, and how to maintain the heating system for optimal performance.
Warning Signs It Is Time for a Heating Replacement
One of the most important factors for homeowners to consider is the age of their current heating system. The average life expectancy of a heating system depends on what type of heating system the home uses.
- Gas furnaces: 15 to 20 years
- Electric furnaces: 20 years or more
- Heat pumps: 10 to 15 years
After around 15-20 years, heaters need more frequent repairs. The costs of repairing an old heating system, combined with increased heating costs as the inefficient heater struggles to keep up, can add up to the costs of a replacement heater. Installing a new furnace may also be necessary if the heating system is leaking, making strange noises, insufficient or inconsistent heating around the house, or any signs of burning, such as soot, smoke, or a burning smell.
Choose the Right Heating System
Homeowners can choose from a few different types of heating systems. Installing a new heating system is an opportunity to upgrade and improve the efficiency of the home's heating, so homeowners may want to switch to a different type of heating system instead of replacing it with the same furnace model.
Forced air, also called central air, is the most popular type of heating system. Forced air uses a blower to push warm air from the furnace down a system of air ducts in the walls into rooms in the house. The cons of central air for heating is that it can be noisy as the air moves through the air ducts and can sometimes heat unevenly.
Boilers can offer more even heating distribution than forced air systems. Because they do not use ductwork, they are a quieter option and provide cleaner air. They are also a low-maintenance option compared to other types of heating systems.
New boiler installation can be more expensive than other types of heating, especially if it is a new eco-friendly model. Boilers that run on natural gas are more eco-friendly than electric and gas; natural gas boilers can also help cut back on utility bills.
Furnaces heat homes faster than boilers. Switching from electric heat to a gas furnace can reduce the home's heating bills by up to 50% and can increase the home's value. Gas furnaces are one of the most popular options for modern homes because of their versatility, making it easier to find parts and service providers.
Furnaces need to be replaced every 15-20 years, a shorter lifespan than other heating systems. They also require a lot of maintenance to keep them working properly, such as changing the air filters and cleaning the air ducts regularly.
Heat pump installation can be pricey, but for some homeowners, this is the ideal heating option for keeping utility costs low and improving the home's eco-friendliness. Heat pump systems provide year-round comfort by providing both heating and cooling. Homeowners can also enjoy better air quality with improved humidity.
Other benefits include even heating, low maintenance costs, and improved safety. Many homeowners pair their heat pump systems with solar panels to reduce HVAC costs. Downsides include noisy operation, less efficiency in colder weather, and the heat pump can frost over in freezing temperatures.
Benefits of Heating Maintenance
Different types of heating systems require different levels of maintenance. Still, for all heating systems, regular heating maintenance helps improve the heating system's efficiency and keeps heating costs low. During maintenance appointments, the technician can inspect the heating system for signs of damage or parts needing replacement. Maintenance at the beginning of the season helps ensure that the system works correctly all winter long with maximum efficiency and no breakdowns.
Neglecting to do heating maintenance can be dangerous, with hazards ranging from furnace fires to carbon monoxide leaks. In addition to the health risks, skipping maintenance appointments can lead to expensive, unnecessary repairs and take years off the heating system's lifespan. Doing maintenance on type will help ensure that the heater is reliable all winter long and that there are no safety threats to the household from a malfunctioning furnace.
About Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc
Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc. is available 24/7 whenever a heating or plumbing emergency strikes. For over 35 years, this trustworthy neighborhood home service company has been proud to provide its community with stellar service from the most qualified professionals. Call them today for heating installation, maintenance, and repair in Seaside, CA!
