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?
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
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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