Start the New Year Off Right By Installing a New Heater!
With the beginning of a new year, many folks like to get a fresh start - to do away with the old and usher in the new. This can come in many forms, from committing to a new fitness program to finding a better job. But for homeowners, there's another way to get a fresh start in the new year - by replacing that clunky old heating system.
It may not seem like the most romantic or exciting way to ring in the new year, but January is a perfect time for heater replacement. After all, an old or malfunctioning heater is more likely to operate inefficiently or break down in the colder winter months - and with a new home improvement budget for the year, it often makes the most financial sense to replace the system early. So homeowners can keep reading to learn how to tell if their heater needs replacing, as well as a few tips for choosing - and maintaining - a new heater.
Signs It's Time for Heater Replacement
Homeowners probably won't want to wait until their heater breaks down to replace it - with how busy HVAC companies are in the winter, they could be stuck without heat for days. So it's important to know the early warning signs of a heater on its way out.
Strange sounds from the heater - such as rattling, squealing, banging, or loud rumbling - may indicate issues with vital components like the blower motor or heat exchanger. Problems with the heater's performance may point to a failing unit. This includes uneven heating, short cycling (the unit only runs briefly before shutting off), weak airflow, or if the unit constantly runs, but the house never gets warm. Depending on the underlying cause of these issues, replacing the heater may be more cost-effective than repairing it.
Likewise, if the system needs frequent repairs or is approaching its average life expectancy (usually about 15-20 years), a replacement may save homeowners money in the long run. An old or failing heater may even cause a spike in heating costs as its efficiency deteriorates - so unusually high utility bills may indicate that it's time for a new (and more efficient) heater.
Select the Right Heater for the Home
When replacing an old heater, it's a good idea to consider all available options to find the right one for the home. There are a few different heating systems to choose from, each with its advantages and drawbacks.
- Heat Pump - These can be a highly efficient option because they harness existing heat (usually deriving it from the outdoor air or the ground) rather than generating it outright. They can also serve as air conditioners in the warmer months, so homeowners don't need to install multiple systems. However, heat pumps tend to have a relatively high upfront cost and aren't as efficient in very cold climates.
- Furnace - Gas furnaces generally take the cake in terms of energy efficiency. They also tend to cost less upfront and are extremely effective against extreme cold. However, they tend to be somewhat noisy and can be expensive (or infeasible) to install in homes without gas plumbing. Electric furnaces also have a relatively low initial cost but are far less energy efficient.
- Boiler - Boilers are less common but can be highly efficient (gas boilers in particular). Since boiler systems provide heat by delivering hot water to radiators or baseboard heaters installed throughout the home, they offer outstanding zone control - homeowners can heat individual rooms instead of the whole house. But boilers tend to require a hefty initial investment and can take up quite a bit of space. And if the home isn't outfitted with the necessary plumbing and radiators, the cost of installation can be exorbitant.
Why Maintenance Is So Important - Even for a New Heater
Once homeowners have consulted with their trusted HVAC specialist to determine which type of heater is best for their home, they'll want to protect their new investment by staying on top of heater maintenance. Heaters need regular care and maintenance, like any complex machine, to function properly and last longer.
Annual service visits from a qualified professional will help extend the system's life, prevent the need for repairs, and keep the system operating as efficiently as possible. These visits typically involve a thorough inspection of the system and a long list of tasks designed to address minor issues, minimize wear and tear, and ensure the safe, smooth operation of the heater.
Without proper maintenance, homeowners may find themselves shelling out for repairs - or even a new heater - in a few short years. So to make sure that nice, new heater keeps the house cozy and warm for many winters to come, homeowners should ask their heating and cooling company about a maintenance plan!
About Charles Krull & Son, Inc. Plumbing & Heating
Since its founding in 1910, the family-owned Charles Krull & Son, Inc. Plumbing & Heating has been Malverne's go-to resource for all things HVAC and plumbing. They have won numerous awards for outstanding customer service and business practices - including the Angie's List Super Service Award 5 years in a row. They offer straightforward up-front pricing, financing, and a rewarding membership program, so there's no one better to call for heater installation in Malverne, NY!
