Heating Services In Clifton Park, Saratoga, Troy, Albany, Schenectady, NY, And Surrounding Areas
Heating Systems In Halfmoon, NY
Whether you are a brand-new homeowner, a current renter, or have owned a home before, chances are you have had to deal with your heating system, or perhaps several types of home heating systems.
Heating systems are what keep you toasty during brutal and bone-chilling New York winters. Knowing your furnace’s components, how it operates, and how to troubleshoot basic furnace problems goes a long way in keeping your household operating smoothly.
We’ve provided the answers to frequently asked questions about furnaces as a primer into one of the most important machines in any household.
When Is A Good Time To Replace My Furnace, And How Long Do Furnaces Usually Last?
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s probably a good idea to contact Glamorgan Heating & Cooling for a new furnace.
- Equipment that is more than 15 years old
- Strange noises
- Uneven heating pattern throughout the home
- High humidity
- Calling often for repairs
What Happens If You Ignore A Furnace Issue?
We highly recommend replacing your furnace before any major issues arise. There are several reasons for this:
- Regular maintenance of a new system is far less costly than major repairs on an old one.
- Issues can strike at inopportune times, such as on a cold winter’s morning.
- Replacing sooner rather than later will make for a more efficient furnace, saving you money on utility bills.
- Planning ahead allows you the time needed to choose the optimal replacement model for your home.
What Types Of Furnaces Are There To Choose From?
All forced air heating systems use the same basic technology: a fuel source heats the air, and a blower fan moves it into the rooms of your home through a series of ducts and supply vents. Cold air is drawn back into the unit through return vents, and the cycle repeats.
However, central heating systems can use a variety of different fuel types, which can also affect their required maintenance and lifespan. Here’s an overview:
For information on alternate heating systems, check out our heat pumps page.
- Natural Gas: These units are incredibly economical. According to their AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) number, natural gas is the most energy-efficient, routinely clocking in at between 90 – 98% efficiency (depending on the model).
Gas is also competitively priced compared to other fuels, making it the favorite choice for many homeowners. - Electric: These are some of the smallest, least expensive furnaces to purchase, which makes them appropriate for smaller homes or more budget-conscious homeowners. An electric furnace does not use a burner but instead relies on an electrical ignition to heat conductive coils. They are popular in areas where there are no natural gas lines installed, including some rural communities.
- Oil: Like natural gas furnaces, these units burn fuel (in this case oil) to heat up your home. Oil furnaces are typically less expensive than natural gas ones, but they are also less efficient with an average AFUE number of 80 – 90%. These are more commonly found in colder climates and are popular in the northeastern United States.
- Propane: If the other types of heating systems are not suitable for your home, there are also propane furnaces, which operate similarly to natural gas and oil furnaces. Propane is easily stored, making this a great option for those without access to oil or a natural gas line.
Preparing For A New Installation
Once you call Glamorgan Heating & Cooling, our comfort advisor will thoroughly assess your home and budget before recommending the best option for your needs. Repairs may also be recommended that will add to the overall comfort level. This way, you’ll have a system with maximum efficiency.
Before we arrive for the appointment, please take the following steps to assist our crew:
- Clear the area around the furnace so nothing is in the way.
- Make sure there is a clear path through your home to transport the new furnace.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
Maintenance
No matter the type of furnace you choose, it’s going to be expensive—which is why it’s good practice to keep your investment properly maintained. Every month, check your air filter for dust and debris, and clean or replace it as needed. You can also check and clean the supply and return vents in the rooms of your home, and check your thermostat to make sure it’s programmed properly.
How Much Does A New Furnace Cost?
The cost to replace a furnace can vary based on the size of the unit, efficiency, and comfort level desired. Typically a new heating system can run from around $4,500 – $10,000. More efficient furnaces will be more expensive upfront, but they’ll be cheaper to run in the long term. They may also qualify for government rebates. By the same token, a system that’s less expensive upfront will probably cost you more in energy and repairs over time.
We offer top-of-the-line Lennox furnaces as well as financing to help make getting the right furnace for your home more affordable. Click here to see what you qualify for.
