Winter is in full swing, and with many people spending more time at home, they are realizing their furnaces are not equipped to keep their houses comfortable throughout the day. Instead of calling for repeated furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA it might be time for a furnace upgrade. Here are a few steps you can follow to help find the right system for your home this winter.
1. Efficiency
Heating systems should warm the home efficiently. This means producing the right amount of heat to keep the home comfortable while using just the right amount of energy to keep costs affordable. Professionals measure efficiency in terms of Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). This measures the energy it takes to power the furnace in comparison to how much eat it produces. A high AFUE means a more efficient system. Energy-efficient furnaces will cost more upfront, but over the years homeowners can earn the money back through energy savings.
2. Size
When it comes to choosing a furnace, one size does not fit all. A heating system that is too small for the home will not produce enough heat. A heating system that is too large for the home will waste the excess heat it produces. This is why it is critical to find the right-sized unit for the home. The furnace size is based on how much heat it produces in an hour measured in British thermal units (BTUs). A contractor can estimate the correct size by considering the size of the home, the average temperatures of the local climate, the temperatures homeowners want in their home, and the amount of heat loss.
3. Electricity Dependent or Independent
Electrical-dependent heating is the most cost-effective and is typically safer. However, because most power plants run off of limited resources, a lot of consumers consider switching to electrical-independent heating. This means they can keep their home warm even if the power goes out. Heating systems that do not require electricity include propane, natural gas, oil, and geothermal heating. They all come with unique pros and cons to consider before making a final decision on which heating system is best for the home.
4. Total Cost
The total cost of a new furnace isn’t just the price of the unit. It is also important to consider the installation cost, maintenance, and the monthly cost of heating. Fortunately, a new furnace will require less repair, should heat more efficiently, and be covered under warranty should something go wrong. Most companies that install new heating systems will also offer special offers and discounts for customers who choose to get regular maintenance.
When it is time to replace the heating system in your home, it is important to find the right system. If you have questions about furnace sizes, types, and pricing, contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning. We provide top-of-the-line service and furnace repair in Los Gatos, CA.
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