If you have not lived in your current home for very long, you may never have had to upgrade your heating system. If your system has been experiencing frequent issues or is nearing the end of its life expectancy, now may be a good time to start shopping around for a new and improved version. Experts generally recommend that if you are facing repairs that will cost half of what it would cost to install a new heating system, it may be time to consider a replacement.
When the weather turns cold in Nanaimo, you’ll want to ensure that you have a warm and comfortable home all winter. While an upgraded system may be a bit of an investment, there are many reasons why that investment may pay off. Let’s consider some of the benefits of upgrading your heating system.
Reducing Your Energy Costs
Upgraded heating systems can help reduce the money you spend on utility bills. Upgraded models generally use a lot less fuel than older models. For example, you can choose a furnace with a secondary heat exchanger. In this kind of system, the secondary heat exchanger uses the exhaust from the primary heat exchanger to produce more heat from the same amount of fuel.
Most newer systems also incorporate variable-speed motors. Older systems have motors that are either on or off. This means that when your thermostat calls for heat, the unit turns on full blast, which is energy inefficient and causes more wear and tear on the system than necessary. New systems with variable-speed motors do not have to run at full capacity and save energy by heating your home slowly.
When you replace your old system, your can ask your technician about separating your home into different zones. This setup offers better control over your indoor comfort level and may save on energy costs. HVAC zoning is beneficial if you have a guest room or finished basement that you do not use often. You can set the temperature lower in these spaces to save on heating bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, HVAC zoning could save you 30 percent on energy bills.
Including Smart Thermostats in Your New System
Along with a new heating system comes the option of installing upgraded thermostats. Many homeowners choose to include smart thermostats during a system replacement to increase the efficiency and convenience of their equipment. You can program smart thermostats to reduce heating at night or when household members are out for the day. They also slowly bring your home’s temperature back up to your preferred temperature before you arrive home. This prevents your system from having to come on full force, which wastes energy and increases wear and tear on your HVAC system.
In addition, smart thermostats can be controlled by your smartphone or tablet. This comes in handy in situations like when you decide to go out with friends rather than go home after work. Using your device, you can keep your home at its normal daytime temperature until you arrive, so you are not heating it for no reason. Or, if you have ever gotten out of bed because you forgot to turn the heat down, you know how convenient it would be to control your home’s temperature with your device.
The technician installing your thermostat and your new heating system can help you learn the most effective way to program your system. By adding smart thermostats when you replace your heating system, you can reap the cost savings and convenience of this new technology and your new heating unit.
Healthier Indoor Air Quality
While the comfort of your home temperature-wise is essential, it’s also important to consider how healthy your indoor air is. There is a connection between to condition of your heating system and the level of pollutants in your home. For example, an old furnace is less efficient at turning fuel into heat, which means that more pollutants like carbon monoxide are produced and circulated through your house. A tiny amount of carbon monoxide is acceptable in your home. However, high levels can lead to headaches, shortness of breath, and nausea.
Newer systems use modern filters that are more effective at filtering dust, dirt, and debris out of your home’s air. In both new and old heating systems, the HVAC filter’s primary purpose is to protect the internal components of the heating unit. However, homeowners are becoming more aware of the health issues associated with poor indoor air quality. As a result, manufacturers of newer heating units have developed systems that can use higher-quality air filters than old systems could.
Finally, similar to adding smart thermostats and humidifiers when replacing your heating system, installing a new heating unit allows you to add a whole-whole home air purification system. Air purifiers are designed to filter things like volatile organic compounds and particulate matter out of the air you breathe. Many of these pollutants are too small for a HVAC filter to capture. Adding a dedicated filtration system can greatly increase your home’s indoor air quality.
Quiet Function
Does your current heating system sound pretty loud when it’s running? This is quite common for a unit that is nearing the end of its life. New systems will run much smoother, reducing the noise produced by your heating system. Many models also come equipped with sound-absorbing materials that further keep noise to a minimum. You may not notice how loud and annoying your old system was until you replace it.
Reaping the Benefits of a System Warranty
A new heating system will almost always come with warranty coverage. If anything were to go wrong within the first few years of installation, the manufacturer of your heating system would cover any parts and labor costs that you encounter. Generally, HVAC warranties are good for about five years after installation. A warranty gives you peace of mind because if something goes wrong with your heating, you will not have to pay out of pocket.
You may also have the option of signing up for an extended warranty. This means your coverage will continue even after the initial provisions have expired. You will have to pay for this extension, but it’s often worth the investment to ensure you are covered if something major goes wrong. Just make sure you speak with a reputable HVAC company to fully understand the extent of the coverage you’re signing up for.
Contact the Pros
Upgrading your heating system in Nanaimo, BC can save you money, help you maintain a more comfortable home, and even improve your indoor air quality. Contact Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas if you’re interested in scheduling an appointment with one of our experienced technicians to discuss your options. We can help you determine what type of heating unit will best serve your needs. Our professionals will install your new heating system and can maintain it moving forward. We can also help you address indoor air quality or plumbing issues. For any of your HVAC needs, call us today.
