Heating Services

For the efficient functioning and long life of your heating system, it is essential to have the system maintained regularly. Most HVAC professionals suggest that annual servicing of the heating system is a good idea, with the pre-cold season being the optimal time for such a service. Components thought to be in good working order are inspected and cleaned, potential problems are looked for, and the system's overall operation and performance are checked. Most of the time, if something is wrong, the technician will hear it first or will see it upon inspection.

Your heating system may need expert attention if you notice any of these several signs. It might be trying to tell you that it's not particularly happy with something. It could be your typical sonic communicator, improbably low electric bills, or lights that dim and brighten for no reason. Maybe it's the way you've stranded your cat in an igloo. Or perhaps it's the way the system has decided that just one floor of your house is going to be hot enough to melt glass.

Increasing the efficiency of heating systems can help lower energy costs. "Step number one," says John B. O'Brien, program coordinator for the Wood Heat Incentive, "is to ensure that your insulation is proper. This means not just in the walls and the attic but also in the checks and spaces around your windows and doors. If you can put your hand over a space and feel warmth radiating against your skin, you have an area that needs treatment."O'Brien says you can also increase your heating system's efficiency through regular maintenance and the use of programmable or smart thermostats. "The kinds of saves that are built into these [smart] thermostats are pretty phenomenal," he notes.

Determining the best heating system requires considering many variables, such as the dimensions of your home, the local climate, the cost and availability of energy, and your own aesthetic and comfort preferences. One hears frequently about forced air systems that use a furnace. These can work in tandem with <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://hvaclasvegas.net/" title="central air conditioning" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="1151">central air conditioning</a>. Energy-efficient heat pumps work well in many temperate climates, and many radiant floor heating systems, by contrast, provide some of the more consistent warmth you can find in a home.

How long a heating system lasts depends on what kind it is as well as on maintenance and usage. Generally speaking, with the right kind of care, furnaces can last 15 to 20 years, heat pumps 10 to 15 years, and boilers more than 15 to 20 years. Professional maintenance enjoyed by well-behaved systems and prompt attention to developing issues can stretch these lifespans to the limits of the numbers above and sometimes beyond.

Should your heating system stop functioning, begin by verifying that the thermostat is correctly set and that it is on and in heating mode. Make certain that the circuit breaker has not tripped and that the system is receiving power. Examine the air filter; if it is in the least bit dirty, replace it. These few, simple steps resolve the bulk of no-heat situations; if your problem persists, it is time to call in a pro.

Many strategies exist to help cut heating costs. One key approach is to enhance the insulation in our homes. Even small improvements in how we insulate our homes can reduce heat loss and lower energy consumption. Another obvious—but critical—strategy is to use programmable thermostats to replace the standard wall-mounted models that most of us have. These smart devices can help homeowners save a substantial amount of money on their heating bills.

Preventive maintenance is what you perform on your heating system to allow it to run well and avoid future problems. It is a service that requires a special kind of effort because, while it is essential for your system’s operation and longevity, it is really the only service that you pay for with the hope that it will never be needed again. In that hope lies the common mantra, “Pay now or pay later, but it’s always cheaper to pay now.”

When choosing a heating service company, opt for licensed and insured professionals with solid references from your area. Review their online reputation; look for ratings and testimonials from past clients. Confirm that the company has experience and know-how with your particular kind of heating system. Inquire about the warranties they provide, the nature of their "emergency" services, and whether they give an "upfront" estimate of what you can expect to pay for the job. A solid company will be at ease with your questions and will give you the information willingly and without pushing you toward a decision.

Advanced technologies and improved AFUE ratings make high-efficiency furnaces an option for energy-efficient home heating. Another option, particularly if high efficiency is desired, is a heat pump, which can save significant amounts of energy. Even more so with geothermal models, heat pumps can use the warmer earth temperature to your advantage. Although not as common, radiant floor heating systems can also be an efficient way to warm your home. Another option that is available and is sometimes overlooked is solar heating, which can be an effective supplement to traditional heating systems. Consult with an HVAC professional to determine the best combination of systems for your home.