Should a 25 Year Old Furnace Be Replaced?

December 16, 2024

A 25-year-old furnace has certainly served you well, but is it time to consider a replacement? While many homeowners prefer to hold on to appliances as long as they’re running, aging furnaces come with several concerns that can impact your comfort, safety, and budget. Let’s break down the key factors to help you make the right decision for your home. Efficiency and Energy Costs Older furnaces are significantly less efficient than today’s models. A furnace from 25 years ago likely has an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 65% to 75%, meaning up to 35% of the energy it consumes is wasted. By comparison, modern furnaces have AFUE ratings higher than 90%, which translates to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental impact. Over time, upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace can save you thousands of dollars on utility costs. Older furnaces also simply won’t be as efficient as they were when you got them, since they’ve acquired wear and have to work harder to provide heat. Frequent Repairs As furnaces age, parts begin to wear out, leading to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs. If you’ve been calling a technician more often in recent years for furnace repairs, or if...

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Pros and Cons of the Most Affordable Home Heating Systems

November 4, 2024

Choosing the right home heating method is essential for staying warm in the Peoria, IL winter without breaking your budget. Each option has unique benefits and limitations, especially when it comes to energy efficiency, cost, and ease of use. To help you make an informed decision, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of some of the most affordable heating methods available. Electric Space Heaters Electric space heaters have a low initial cost and ease of use. These portable units can heat small areas quickly. However, they’re not energy-efficient for anything but small spaces, so your electric bill will increase quickly if you start using them. Worse yet, they are known for their fire risk and have numerous safety issues. Natural Gas Furnaces Getting a natural gas furnace gives you a solution that’s affordable to run over time, and their efficiency has improved with modern technology. That means they’re extremely efficient, have a long lifespan with proper maintenance, and can quickly heat even large homes. The main downside is that you need a gas line in order to have one installed. For houses without existing gas access, adding this infrastructure is costly. Electric Furnaces Electric furnaces are another popular heating...

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What Is the Most Common Problem with Furnaces?

October 22, 2024

Furnaces play a crucial role in keeping your home warm and comfortable during the cold months. In Peoria, IL, if your furnace breaks down unexpectedly, you could be in a world of trouble. Because furnaces can encounter issues from time to time, you should be able to understand and identify the most common problems that furnaces can face. Learning this may even help you get help faster and prevent a minor issue from turning into a major repair. How a Dirty Filter Affects Your Furnace So, what is the most common problem with furnaces? In our experience, it’s usually a malfunctioning or dirty furnace filter. Furnace filters are designed to trap dust, dirt, and other particles, preventing them from entering your heating system and circulating through your home. When a filter becomes clogged, it restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder to push air through. This strain can lead to reduced heating efficiency, higher energy bills, and even potential damage to other components of the furnace. Clogged filters can also cause your furnace to overheat, triggering the safety shut-off mechanism. This may leave you wondering why your home isn’t warming up properly, even though your furnace appears to be...

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What Maintenance Does a Furnace Need?

September 15, 2024

As the colder months approach, it’s important to ensure your furnace is in top condition to keep your home warm and comfortable. Regular furnace maintenance is essential for prolonging its life, maximizing efficiency, and preventing unexpected breakdowns. Here’s a look at the key maintenance tasks your furnace needs to perform at its best: 1. Replace or Clean the Air Filter One of the simplest yet most critical tasks in furnace maintenance is regularly replacing or cleaning the air filter. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder and reducing its efficiency. A clean filter improves air quality and helps your furnace run smoothly, which can also lower your energy bills. 2. Inspect and Clean the Burners Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate on the burners, affecting the furnace’s ability to heat your home efficiently. A professional should inspect the burners for cleanliness and proper ignition, ensuring your furnace operates safely and efficiently. 3. Check the Thermostat The thermostat plays a key role in how your furnace functions. Ensuring your thermostat is properly calibrated and working as it should helps maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature in your home while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. 4. Inspect Electrical...

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The Difference Between Rooftop Units and Air Handling Units

August 19, 2024

When it comes to commercial HVAC systems, two common components you’ll often hear about are Rooftop Units (RTUs) and Air Handling Units (AHUs). While both play crucial roles in maintaining comfortable indoor environments, they serve different purposes and are suited for different applications. Understanding the difference between these two can help you make informed decisions when it comes to your building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Rooftop Units (RTUs) Rooftop Units are self-contained HVAC systems typically installed on the roof of commercial buildings. As all-in-one units, they combine heating, cooling, and ventilation in a single package. RTUs are popular in commercial settings due to their efficiency, ease of installation, and ability to save space within the building. RTUs draw in outside air, filter it, and either heat or cool it before distributing it throughout the building via ductwork. Because they are placed on the roof, they help free up valuable indoor space and reduce noise levels within the building. Additionally, RTUs are often more accessible for maintenance since technicians can service them without disrupting the building’s occupants. RTUs are ideal for medium to large-sized commercial spaces, such as retail stores, schools, and office buildings. They are designed to handle...

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How Can I Make My Old Gas Furnace More Efficient?

July 18, 2024

Maintaining an efficient gas furnace is crucial for keeping your home warm during the cold months without breaking the bank on energy bills. If you have an older gas furnace, there are several steps you can take to improve its efficiency and ensure it runs smoothly throughout the heating season. Schedule Regular Maintenance Regular maintenance is essential for the efficient operation of any gas furnace, especially older models. Scheduling annual check-ups with a professional technician helps identify and fix any issues before they become major problems. A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and extending the life of your system. Change Filters Frequently Dirty filters can significantly reduce the efficiency of your furnace. We recommend checking your furnace filters every month and replacing them at least every three months, or more often if they appear clogged. Clean filters allow for better airflow, which improves the furnace’s efficiency and helps maintain a consistent temperature in your home. Seal Ductwork Leaky ducts can cause heated air to escape, leading to energy loss and decreased efficiency. Inspect your ductwork for any visible leaks or damage and seal them with duct tape or mastic sealant. Ensuring your ducts are properly sealed can...

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How Can I Tell If My HVAC Blower Motor Is Bad?

June 5, 2024

A malfunctioning HVAC blower motor can disrupt your home’s heating and cooling system, leading to discomfort and potential damage. At , we want to help you identify the signs of a failing blower motor before it causes significant issues. Here’s how you can tell if your HVAC blower motor is bad. 1. Weak or No Airflow One of the most obvious signs of a bad blower motor is weak or no airflow coming from your vents. If your HVAC system is running, but you notice little to no air coming out, it could be due to a malfunctioning blower motor. The blower motor is responsible for pushing air through the ducts and into your living spaces. When it fails, the airflow is significantly reduced or stops altogether. 2. Strange Noises Unusual noises coming from your HVAC system can also indicate a problem with the blower motor. Listen for grinding, squealing, or banging sounds. These noises can result from worn-out bearings, a loose belt, or other internal issues within the motor. If you hear any strange sounds, it’s essential to have a professional inspect your system to prevent further damage. 3. Inconsistent Temperatures A faulty blower motor can lead to inconsistent...

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How Do I Prepare For a Furnace Installation?

May 15, 2024

Are you gearing up for a new furnace installation in your home? Proper preparation can help ensure a smooth and successful installation process, allowing you to enjoy efficient heating and comfort. Here’s how you can prepare for a furnace installation: 1. Choose the Right Furnace Before installation day, work with your HVAC contractor to select the right furnace for your home. Consider factors such as heating capacity, energy efficiency ratings, fuel type (gas, electric, or oil), and any additional features you may need. Your contractor can recommend the best options based on your home’s size, heating needs, and budget. 2. Schedule a Professional Assessment Arrange for a professional assessment of your home’s heating system and ductwork. A qualified technician can determine if your existing ductwork is compatible with the new furnace or if any modifications are needed. They will also ensure that your home’s electrical system can support the new furnace’s power requirements. 3. Clear the Installation Area Clear the area around the existing furnace and the designated installation space. Remove any obstacles, clutter, or furniture to provide easy access for the installation team. This includes clearing a pathway from the entry door to the furnace location. 4. Make Room...

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How Does Ductwork Get Damaged?

April 8, 2024

Ductwork, the unsung hero of your home’s comfort system, plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and regulating temperatures. But just like any other component, it’s not immune to wear and tear. In this blog, we’ll explore the common culprits behind ductwork damage and what you can do to prevent it. 1. Age and Wear Over time, ductwork naturally deteriorates due to age and constant use. The materials may degrade, joints can loosen, and seals may crack, leading to air leaks. This wear and tear can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system, resulting in uneven heating or cooling and increased energy bills. 2. Poor Installation Improper installation is a significant factor in ductwork damage. If the ducts are not sized correctly or installed with care, they may be prone to leaks, kinks, or damage from pressure imbalances. It’s essential to hire experienced professionals, like us at , to ensure that your ductwork is installed correctly the first time. 3. Moisture and Humidity Excess moisture in the ducts can lead to mold and mildew growth, which not only damages the ductwork but also poses health risks to you and your family. Leaky ducts or high humidity levels can...

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Is It Better To Leave The AC On All Day?

March 5, 2024

Have you ever wondered whether it’s more energy-efficient to leave your air conditioner running all day or to turn it off when you’re not home? It’s a common question that many of our customers here in Peoria ask us. Let’s dive into this topic and shed some light on it! Understanding Energy Efficiency First things first, let’s talk about energy efficiency. As a homeowner or business owner, it’s essential to find ways to keep your energy consumption in check, not only to save money but also to reduce your carbon footprint. Your air conditioner plays a significant role in your energy usage, especially during the hot summer months here in Peoria. The Myth of Leaving the AC On Some people believe that leaving the AC on all day is more energy-efficient than turning it off when you’re not home. However, that’s not entirely accurate. Running your AC non-stop can lead to unnecessary energy consumption, resulting in higher utility bills. The Benefits of Using a Programmable Thermostat One of the best ways to maintain a comfortable indoor environment while maximizing energy efficiency is by using a programmable thermostat. With a programmable thermostat, you can set specific temperature preferences for different times...

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