Tag: installation

Signs It's Time for a New Heater Installation

Residential gas furnace and HVAC air handler installed in a home utility room.

Keep the Home Cozy This Autumn by Installing a New Heating System

Fall is just beginning, which means colder weather is already creeping its way in. It’s a good idea to schedule a general heating tune-up to prepare for the chilly nights ahead and ensure the home stays warm and cozy. However, for many homes, heater maintenance may not cut it; instead, it may be time to replace the heating system entirely.

But how do homeowners know when it’s time for a heating replacement? This article will share the telltale signs that the heater or furnace must be replaced so homeowners don’t find themselves without heat on a cold autumn night!

Heater Is Old or Needs Frequent Repairs

The first thing homeowners should consider when considering a heater replacement is the age of the heating system. Most heaters and furnaces last about 15-20 years and require regular maintenance. If the heater is older than that, it usually survives more on sheer luck than anything else. Or, it has been repaired so often that most of its parts are much newer than the unit itself.

However, all those repairs and replacement parts can add up to a small fortune, especially as the unit ages, so investing in a brand-new system may make more financial sense. If homeowners have a heating system that is over 15 years old and constantly malfunctions, it’s time to hire a professional for a new heating installation.

Higher Than Normal Utility Bills

Woman reviewing utility bills at a desk with a laptop and a coffee cup, highlighting concerns about high energy costs related to heating systems.Another common sign that the heater is not long for this world is unusually high energy bills. Heating and cooling typically impact energy usage more than anything else (lights, small appliances, etc.), so if the utility bill seems high, there’s a good chance the heater or AC is to blame.

If homeowners aren’t using the heater much more than usual but they’re still seeing a spike in the energy bill, it often means that the heating system isn’t operating efficiently. Various issues, including old age and cumulative wear & tear, can cause inefficiency. So, if homeowners notice an unexpected increase in their energy bills, they’d do well to call their HVAC company to diagnose the issue.

Thanks to constantly improving technology, newer heating systems are much more energy-efficient than older heaters and furnaces, so new furnace installation may save homeowners much more money in the long run!

The Home Isn’t Getting Warm Enough

Woman wrapped in a blanket looking cold and uncomfortable while sitting on a couch with a laptop, illustrating signs of inadequate heating in the home.Perhaps the most obvious sign of a serious heating problem is if the house isn’t warming up enough or evenly. This could manifest as weak airflow, no airflow, cold spots throughout the house, certain rooms getting excessively warm, or the heater running constantly without the temperature changing much at all.

Much like poor energy efficiency, poor heating performance can be caused by several issues. Some can be resolved with basic repairs, but some may be challenging. If the repair cost is more than 50% of the cost of a new unit, homeowners are better off getting a furnace replacement. 

If the new unit is properly installed and well-maintained by a qualified professional, it will keep the home warm through the cold months ahead and be reliable and problem-free for many years to come!

About Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning

Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning experts have been serving Boston with pride since 1962. Their friendly, licensed, and insured technicians are available 24/7, ready to tackle any job with up-front pricing and custom solutions to fit the unique needs of every customer. Atlantic’s commitment to outstanding customer service and workmanship is reflected in its A+ BBB rating and hundreds of 5-star reviews from satisfied customers. Call to schedule a heater installation in Boston, MA!

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Consider New Heater Installation for 2022

Resolve to Have a Warmer, More Energy Efficient Home!

While many home designs can add comfort, nothing can keep a home warm like a central HVAC system. Even if a home is already equipped with such a system, no appliance can last forever, and the need for replacement may come up before the typical homeowner is ready. If a system is failing, what should replace it? Is a heat pump, a furnace, or a boiler the best choice? 

All of these questions will be answered differently depending on the home, the budget, and household needs. This is an overview of the basics to get an eager customer started. 

Does This Home’s Heater Need to be Replaced?

The heating system may seem to be doing its job, but there are several subtle, or not so subtle, signs that a heater will give to show that it is on its way out. If a household keeps their eyes peeled for these indicators, they will know they need to consult with a heating company.

  • Equipment is more than 10 years old
  • Loud noises (banging and popping) 
  • Extremely high energy bills
  • Constantly switching on and off
  • Need to adjust thermostat often
  • Inconsistent heat
  • Burner flame yellow or orange

A new furnace installation or heater installation may be important to keeping a household warm and safe during the harshest time of the winter.

Which System Is Best for This Home?Heating system components with visible pipes and gauges labeled "pros/cons," illustrating considerations for HVAC system efficiency and maintenance.

Thanks to modern technology, there are many options for heating a home. The homeowner should consider which system is the best for their home with the assistance of a professional HVAC contractor.

Gas Furnace: These can be fueled with either natural gas or propane Both fuels are highly reliable. 

  • Pros: 
      • Reliable 
      • Energy efficient 
      • Heat up more quickly than electric furnaces
      • Fairly easy to maintain as there are few moving parts
  • Cons:
    • Initial cost may be higher
    • Carbon emissions are a byproduct

Boilers: These use a heating element and steam to heat a home via hot water pipes in the walls and floorboards. It is one of the oldest forms of entire home heating. 

  • Pros:
      • Heat rooms evenly
      • System produces very little noise
      • Energy efficient
      • Little maintenance required
  • Cons:
    • High initial cost outlay (piping,etc.)
    • Expensive to replace
    • Potential for water leaks

Heat Pumps: Heat pumps may be the best all-around system because of their versatility and low energy usage. Because they take heat from the air instead of having a heater, they need less energy to run.

  • Pros:
      • Less expensive to run
      • Less dangerous than systems that use gas or electric heat
      • Highly reliable
      • Can be used for both heating and cooling
  • Cons:
    • Harder to “feel the warmth” (The air doesn’t blow hot out of vents but is closer to room temperature)
    • Similar sound level to traditional HVAC units

Radiant Flooring: This system heats a home from the ground up. Piping is installed and covered with flooring. The heat comes up from the floor.

  • Pros:
      • Warm feet
      • Quiet heating
      • Efficient heating
      • Can be installed as part of the hot water system
  • Cons:
    • Expense to install and maintain
    • Boiler-based so potential for water leakage

Hand underlining the word "Benefits" in bold text, emphasizing advantages of heating systems.Commit to Maintenance

If a homeowner has gone through with a heater replacement or furnace replacement, the best way to keep that new system from having hiccups is to commit to regular heating maintenance. Not only is this the best way to prevent problems, it also keeps the furnace or heater in its best condition for more efficient heating and therefore lower energy bills. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs to the system and potential damage to the home.

About Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning

Atlantic Heating & Air Conditioning has proudly kept Boston warm for 60 years. They provide personalized solutions and 24/7 service. Call them today for furnace and heater services in the Boston, MA area.

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