If you have an older heating system, you may be trying to decide if you should keep fixing it or install a new model. There are different types of furnaces with different functions, and you want to be sure you know how they differ. A furnace change can be a costly upgrade, but it has multiple important benefits.
Efficiency
Newer equipment tends to have higher AFUE scores and runs more efficiently, cutting fuel and electric bills. The government began requiring a minimum rating of 78 percent in 1987 and this requirement climbed to 80 percent in 2015.
Blowers
If your old heating system contains a fixed-speed blower, you could replace it with a furnace that has a variable-speed unit. It will adjust the fan speed depending on how much heat you need. This often reduces noise and saves energy.
Venting
Another difference between old and newer units is the furnace vent. Older furnace vents usually vented gases out of the roof. Today’s models of a furnace vent are usually found on the side of the home, where PVC pipes are used to lead the gases. This is a much more efficient way for your furnace to vent.
Noise
Although this can't be guaranteed, a new model can be quieter than its predecessor. This is more likely to happen if you install a furnace with new air ducts and/or modulating gas valves.
Reliability
It costs less to fix an old system than replace it. However, an aging furnace will probably need more repairs. It could break down on an unusually cold day and require emergency service. This results in higher expenses in the long run.
Parts
You may find that it becomes increasingly difficult to acquire parts for an older model. Eventually, you might need to reuse old components from defunct furnaces instead of installing more dependable new parts.
Options
If you replace the system, you can choose to switch to one of several energy sources. For instance, you could start heating your home with fuel oil, natural gas or electricity. Each choice provides different advantages, such as lower energy bills or reduced maintenance.
Borrowing
When you don't have enough money in your bank account, you can obtain affordable financing to pay for new equipment. Other options are cash or a credit card to fund repairs.
Having a furnace also means you should get it checked regularly! If you have regular inspections you can avoid it breaking down during the winter. At ServiceOne, we inspect your wall thermostat, air filters, oil motors and more!
With winter around the corner, there’s a lot of things you want to have in order! First, your furnace or it will be one long and cold winter! Another thing, is a home humidifier, the air is dry and cold increasing the chances you get sick.
If you are still unsure what to do, remember that your home is like nobody else's! It is possible that your situation is not a ‘typical’ one meaning it won’t fit in the basic guidelines you’ll find online or even from a professional. With that in mind, remember to make the best decision for you and your home! Be sure to understand 80 percent and 95 percent furnaces and how it can or can not benefit you.
A new furnace will run more dependably and efficiently, but an old unit may continue to serve you well if you can afford to maintain and fuel it. To request a visit from a repair technician or installer with expertise in heating and cooling, Dubuque residents can contact ServiceOne.
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With our team of qualified, courteous ServiceOne air conditioning professionals, we will keep your home or business comfortable year-round! For over 25 years, ServiceOne has been trusted to provide top-notch sales and service to homes and businesses in the Omaha/Council Bluffs metro area and in Dubuque, Iowa. With over 90 employees standing by ready to help, you can always trust us to deliver 100% satisfactory service. We also offer home warranty & service agreements, plumbing services, electrical services, appliance repair, and help with generators and home and business automation. For more information about our services, contact us today!