Winterize Your Home: A Homeowner’s Guide to Cold Weather Protection

a home covered in snow in Wisconsin, demonstrating the need to winterize your home

As temperatures drop and winter returns to Wisconsin this season, taking steps to winterize your home becomes crucial for protecting your property and family. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’ve seen how proper winter preparation can prevent costly repairs and ensure your comfort throughout the cold season.

In this blog post you’ll find a comprehensive guide to keeping your home warm and safe all winter long.

How To Stay Warm & Winterize Your Home This Season

Here are five easy steps to protect your home from the cold this season:

Start with Professional Furnace Maintenance

The foundation of efforts to winterize your home starts with your heating system. As Cedarburg’s top heating contractor, we recommend scheduling professional maintenance before winter hits full force. Our NATE-certified technicians thoroughly inspect your system, clean vital components, and identify potential issues before they become major problems. This simple step can save you from emergency repairs during the coldest days.

Smart Thermostat Strategies

Program your thermostat to lower temperatures when you’re sleeping or away from home. This not only reduces energy bills but also prevents unnecessary strain on your heating system. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts automatically for optimal efficiency.

Optimize Your Home’s Airflow

Check all air vents throughout your home to ensure they’re open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Clean or replace air filters monthly during heavy-use winter months. These steps are essential when you winterize your home as they help maintain proper airflow and reduce your furnace’s workload.

Safety First: Fire and Carbon Monoxide Prevention

Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and test them monthly alongside smoke alarms. Keep flammable materials away from heating equipment and ensure proper ventilation around your furnace. Schedule professional cleaning of your chimney if you have a fireplace.

Take Additional Home Protection Measures

Want to go the extra mile in protecting your home this winter season? Here are a few additional home protection measures you can take:

  • Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing
  • Seal windows and doors to eliminate drafts
  • Check attic insulation levels
  • Clear gutters to prevent ice dams
  • Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air downward

Remember, when you winterize your home, you’re not just ensuring comfort—you’re protecting your investment and ensuring your family’s safety during Wisconsin’s challenging winter months.

For professional assistance with your winter preparation, contact us today for a thorough inspection and maintenance service.

5 Signs You Need a Furnace Replacement

A Hometown Heating, Air & Electric technician performing a furnace replacement in a resident's home

When winter temperatures plummet in Wisconsin, the last thing you want to face is an unexpected furnace replacement. However, knowing when to schedule a replacement can help you avoid emergency situations during those frigid nights when temperatures drop into the teens and twenties.

In this blog post, let’s explore five signs that mean it’s time to replace your furnace.

Warning Signs That Point to Furnace Replacement

Your heating system may be showing several indicators that you should replace your furnace in the near future. Here are the key signs to watch for:

  1. Rising Energy Costs: If you notice your heating bills climbing despite similar usage patterns, your furnace may be losing efficiency. Replacing your furnace with a newer, high-efficiency model could lead to significant monthly savings.
  2. Frequent Repairs: When repair costs start adding up, investing in furnace replacement often makes more financial sense. Multiple service calls within a short period typically indicate your system is approaching the end of its lifespan.
  3. Age of Your System: Most furnaces last between 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is approaching or has exceeded this age range, it’s wise to consider replacement before a complete breakdown occurs.
  4. Uneven Heating: Are some rooms colder than others? A furnace struggling to distribute heat evenly throughout your home often indicates declining performance and the need for replacement.
  5. Strange Sounds or Smells: Don’t ignore serious warning signs, such as banging noises, unusual odors, or a discolored pilot light. These symptoms often point to significant internal issues that may warrant furnace replacement.

Benefits of Professional Furnace Replacement

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’ve helped countless homeowners upgrade their heating systems. Having a professional replace your furnace can offer several advantages, including the following:

  • Enhanced energy efficiency leading to lower utility bills
  • More consistent heating throughout your home
  • Quieter operation
  • Improved reliability and fewer repair needs
  • Better warranty coverage
  • Advanced features for optimal comfort

Trust Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, Your Local Heating Experts

As an EPA-certified and BBB-accredited company with an A+ rating, Hometown Heating, Air & Electric brings expertise and professionalism to every furnace installation, repair, and maintenance project. Our NATE-certified technicians are trained to install all major brands and models, ensuring you get the perfect system for your home’s needs.

Don’t wait until your furnace fails during the next cold snap. If you’re noticing any signs that indicate you need a furnace replacement, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve southeastern Wisconsin with reliable, professional heating services backed by hundreds of 5-star Google reviews.

Replace Your Boiler Before Cold Weather Strikes

a Hometown Heating, Air & Electric employee explaining why you should replace your boiler to a client

As the leaves begin to change and temperatures drop, it’s time to think about your home’s heating system. If you have an older one, it may be time to replace your boiler before the cold arrives. Replacing it can save you from discomfort and high energy bills.

In this blog post, let’s explore why you should consider a boiler replacement before winter arrives.

Why Replace Your Boiler Now?

  1. Avoid Mid-Winter Breakdowns: Nothing’s worse than a failing boiler during a cold snap. By replacing your boiler now, you’ll avoid potential breakdowns when you need heat most.
  2. Improve Energy Efficiency: Newer boilers are more efficient. Replacing your old unit can lead to significant energy savings throughout the cold season.
  3. Ensure Consistent Comfort: A new boiler provides reliable, consistent heat. Don’t let an aging system leave you in the cold.
  4. Take Advantage of Off-Season Pricing: Many HVAC companies offer better deals before the winter rush. View our boiler page to find a special savings discount off any service call.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Boiler

  1. Age: If your boiler is over 15 years old, it’s time to consider a replacement.
  2. Frequent Repairs: Constant fixes can add up. A new boiler might be more cost-effective.
  3. Rising Energy Bills: An inefficient boiler works harder, increasing your utility costs.
  4. Uneven Heating: Cold spots in your home? Your boiler might be struggling.

Benefits of a New Boiler Installation

Modern boilers offer numerous advantages, including the following:

  • Higher efficiency ratings
  • Better temperature control
  • Quieter operation
  • Smaller footprint
  • Improved safety features

Types of Boilers We Service

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we offer repair, installation, or maintenance services for multiple types of boilers, including the following:

  1. Gas Boilers: Efficient and widely used
  2. Oil Boilers: Great for areas without natural gas lines
  3. Electric Boilers: Safe and eco-friendly
  4. Coal Boilers: Less common but still used in some areas

Each type has its pros and cons. Our experts can help service whichever type of boiler you have in your home.

Don’t let the cold catch you off guard. Replace your boiler before winter hits to ensure a warm, comfortable home all season long. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to ensure your boiler is working all winter long.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our boiler and HVAC system repair, installation, and maintenance services. Don’t wait until you’re left in the cold – act now for a cozy, efficient winter!

Your Essential Winter Home Maintenance Checklist: Prepare for Wisconsin’s Chill

A general checklist, representing a winter home maintenance checklist

As the leaves start to fall and the air gets crisp, it’s time for Wisconsin homeowners to tackle their winter home maintenance checklist. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we know how crucial it is to prepare your home for the winter months ahead. 

Follow our comprehensive winter home maintenance checklist to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and energy-efficient all year long.

Items on Your Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Check these five items off your maintenance checklist as you prepare for the upcoming season:

1. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

The cornerstone of your winter home maintenance checklist should be a thorough HVAC inspection. Our NATE-certified technicians can:

  • Clean and inspect your system for optimal performance
  • Identify and fix potential issues before they become costly repairs
  • Ensure your heating system runs efficiently, saving you money on energy bills

Don’t wait until the first snowfall – schedule your next furnace tune-up today!

2. Check and Clean Vents

Proper airflow is essential for an efficient heating system. As part of your winter home maintenance:

  • Vacuum vent covers to remove dust and debris
  • Keep all vents open and unobstructed
  • Ensure at least 2 inches of clearance around each vent

3. Replace Air Filters

Clean air filters are crucial for both air quality and system efficiency:

  • Check filters monthly during winter
  • Replace 1-inch filters every 90 days, or more frequently if needed
  • Consider upgrading to high-efficiency filters for better air quality

4. Inspect for Small Issues

Catching minor problems early can prevent major headaches later. Your winter home maintenance checklist should include watching for:

  • Unusual noises from your heating system
  • Inconsistent heating throughout your home
  • Longer than normal heating cycles

If you notice any of these signs, contact us for a professional inspection.

5. Prepare for Power Outages

Wisconsin winters often bring storms that can knock out power. Be prepared by:

  • Investing in a backup generator
  • Planning generator placement to avoid carbon monoxide risks
  • Stocking up on appropriate extension cords and connectors

When you require electrical services, we’re the team to trust. To learn more or to schedule a preventative electrical maintenance inspection, visit our Electric page on our website.

By following this winter home maintenance checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever the Wisconsin winter throws your way. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re committed to keeping your home comfortable and efficient all year round.

Contact us today to schedule your next furnace tune-up and face the cold months with confidence!

The Benefits of Replacing Your AC and Furnace Together

As the weather begins to transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring, now is the perfect time to consider upgrading your home’s HVAC system. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we understand the importance of maintaining a comfortable indoor environment year-round. One of the most significant decisions homeowners face is whether replacing their AC and furnace separately or together is better.

In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of replacing your AC and furnace simultaneously and why it’s a smart investment for your home.

Replacing Your AC and Furnace at the Same Time

Maximize your efficiency and comfort and enjoy these benefits when you replace your AC and furnace together:

Workers of Hometown Heating, Air & Electric transporting a Lennox HVAC system because the homeowner wanted the benefits of replacing their AC and furnace simultaneously

Cost & Time Savings

Replacing your air conditioner and furnace together can lead to significant cost and time savings in the long run. While it may seem like a larger upfront investment, bundling the replacement allows you to take advantage of package deals and discounts. Additionally, opting for a dual replacement eliminates the need for multiple installation visits, reducing labor costs and minimizing disruptions.

Our team is dedicated to providing reliable installation services, ensuring your system is up and running in no time.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Newer HVAC systems are designed to be more energy-efficient, helping you reduce your carbon footprint and lower your monthly utility bills. By upgrading both your air conditioner and furnace simultaneously, you ensure both components work seamlessly together, maximizing energy efficiency and overall performance. Plus, modern systems often come with advanced features such as programmable thermostats and zoning options. These allow you to customize your indoor climate and further optimize energy usage.

Warranty Considerations

When you replace your air conditioner and furnace together, you simplify the warranty process. This helps you avoid potential issues down the road. As a Lennox dealer, Hometown Heating, Air & Electric works with Lennox, which offers warranties that cover parts for a specified period. By installing both systems simultaneously, you ensure parts for both are protected under the same warranty terms. To learn more about what’s covered under warranty, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Increased Home Value

Investing in a new air conditioner and furnace can enhance the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers. Energy-efficient HVAC systems are a desirable feature for homebuyers, and having newer equipment in place can set your home apart. Plus, a well-maintained and upgraded HVAC system demonstrates that you’ve taken proactive steps to maintain your home, instilling confidence in potential buyers.

Replacing your air conditioner and furnace together offers numerous benefits, from cost and time savings to increased home value. If you’re considering upgrading your HVAC system, now is the ideal time to take action.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the advantages of replacing your AC and furnace simultaneously.

Heating Emergency: How to Survive the Cold When Your Furnace Quits

couple bundling up in a heating emergency

As the frigid winds sweep through Wisconsin, the last thing you want is for your heating system to call it quits. A sudden loss of heat can be not only uncomfortable but also potentially dangerous, especially in the heart of winter. So, what do you do when your furnace decides to take an unscheduled vacation? Here’s a guide to help you navigate a heating emergency situation in the Badger State:

1. Check the Basics

Before panicking, ensure the basics are covered. Sometimes, the issue might be a simple fix.

  • Verify your thermostat is set correctly, the circuit breakers are not tripped, and the furnace switch is in the “on” position.
  • If all of those items are in the proper position, locate the emergency shut-off switch, typically located on the furnace itself. Ensure it’s turned on. If the switch is off, flipping it back on might resolve the problem.
  • Finally, for those who have older furnaces with a pilot light, check if it’s still burning. If it’s out, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it might indicate a deeper issue that requires professional attention.

2. Contact the Professionals

In Wisconsin where winter can be harsh, it’s crucial to have a reliable heating professional on speed dial. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to help you in a heating emergency. Keep our contact information close by, so if an emergency situation happens, you’re ready and can contact us right away. It’s worth having this information handy for unexpected situations.

How to Contact Hometown Heating, Air & Electric:

3. Utilize Temporary Heating Solutions

In an emergency, you need warmth, and fast. If your situation is dire, you may have to wait a short time for help to come your way. Consider these temporary heating solutions while you wait:

  • Blankets: While waiting for professional assistance, layer up in warm clothing and use blankets.
  • Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, now is the time to use it as it’s a quick way to bring heat into your home.
  • Oven: Bake something in your oven, and when finished, turn off your oven, but keep the door open to let in heat.
  • Space Heaters: If you have electric space heaters, use them to provide temporary warmth.
  • Sunshine: If it’s daytime and the sun is shining, open your blinds and curtains to let the sun in.
  • Towels: Seal drafts with weather stripping or towels to keep as much warmth inside as possible.

While these solutions can be helpful in a heating emergency, remember to follow safety guidelines and use these options only as temporary solutions.

4. Employ Preventative Maintenance to Avoid Another Heating Emergency

Once the emergency is resolved, schedule preventive maintenance for your heating system. Regular inspections and tune-ups can catch potential issues before they become emergencies. Maintaining your furnace won’t just help during emergencies — it will also help keep your bills down and extend the lifespan of your heating equipment.

Remember, when facing a heating emergency in Wisconsin, acting promptly and seeking professional help is key. Stay warm and safe during the winter months, and don’t let a heating hiccup put a freeze on your comfort.

If you have any questions or want to schedule a furnace tune-up, please contact us. Don’t just survive the cold — but beat it with Hometown Heating, Air & Electric.

Heat Smart, Spend Smart: 10 Ways To Save On Heating This Winter

woman sitting by the fire trying to save on heating this winter

Winter has a magical way of transforming our beautiful state into a snowy wonderland, but it can also turn your heating bill into a frosty nightmare. Fear not! Hometown Heating, Air & Electric is here to sprinkle some warmth and wisdom on how to keep your heating costs low without sacrificing comfort. So, let’s dive into the cozy world of energy efficiency and discover the secrets to save on your heating bill that won’t break the bank.

10 Ways to Save on Heating This Winter

Find out the secrets to a toasty home this winter:

1. Snuggle Up Your Home

No, we’re not suggesting you invest in an army of fluffy pets (although that sounds pretty tempting). Instead, make your home a snuggle sanctuary by sealing any drafts. Grab a tube of caulk and weatherstripping to plug gaps around windows and doors, preventing precious heat from escaping and cold drafts from sneaking in.

2. Embrace Your Smart Thermostat as a Warm Friend

Upgrade to a smart thermostat and let technology do the heavy lifting. These nifty devices learn your heating patterns and adjust the temperature accordingly. Program your thermostat to lower the heat when you’re away and crank it up before you return, ensuring comfort without wasting energy. Even lowering your thermostat by just a degree or two can make a world of difference in cost savings.

3. Let the Sun Shine In

Mother Nature provides a free and fabulous heating source – the sun! During the day, open curtains and blinds to let sunlight naturally warm your home. As the sun sets, close them to trap the heat and keep the winter chill at bay. While these ideas might seem obvious, it’s often the little things that can help you save on heating.

4. Bring Your Blankets into Your Living Spaces

Your blankets aren’t just for beds, so embrace the cozy vibes with blankets and bring them into your living spaces! Layer up with warm throws on couches and beds to create a snug atmosphere. When the temperature drops, reach for a blanket before adjusting the thermostat.

5. Mind Your Vents and Radiators

Don’t let furniture play hide-and-seek with your vents or radiators. Arrange your space so that heat can circulate freely. Move furniture away from these sources to ensure an unobstructed flow of warmth, making your heating system’s job a breeze.

6. Seize the Power of Layers to Save on Heating

While we understand that wearing layers are the key to staying warm, your home follows the same principle. Instead of cranking up the heat, throw on your favorite sweater or hoodie to stay warm and stylish inside.

7. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

Just like your car needs regular maintenance, so does your furnace. Schedule a tune-up with Hometown Heating, Air & Electric to ensure your heating system is running at peak efficiency. A well-maintained furnace not only keeps your bills down but also extends the lifespan of your heating equipment.

8. Become a Draft Detective

Put on your detective hat and hunt down drafts. Check for gaps around windows, doors, and even electrical outlets. Sealing these openings is a simple yet effective way to prevent cold air from sneaking in.

9. Don’t Get Warm Alone

Engage the whole family in the quest for a lower heating bill. Encourage everyone to wear warm clothes indoors, close doors to unoccupied rooms, and remind them to turn down the thermostat when heading out. Teamwork makes the (warmth) dream work!

10. Cozy Cooking Counts

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and cooking can generate heat. On colder days, consider baking or cooking heartier meals to help warm up your space. Bonus: you get delicious food as a reward!

Remember, keeping your home warm doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With these creative and cost-effective tips, you’ll be sipping cocoa in a cozy home without worrying about your heating bill. Stay warm and wallet-wise this winter, courtesy of Hometown Heating, Air & Electric!

If you have any questions about any of these tips or want to schedule a furnace tune-up, please contact us. Let’s stay warm this winter.

Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and the Vital Role of HVAC Maintenance

a Hometown Heating, Air & Electric HVAC van, representing how homeowners can protect their homes against carbon monoxide poisoning by regularly maintaining their HVAC system

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a silent menace that can infiltrate your home without warning, posing a grave threat to your family’s safety. Understanding the risks of CO poisoning is essential to prevent this potential hazard. HVAC maintenance plays a pivotal role in keeping your home CO-free, and we’re here to shed light on the importance of this critical aspect.

This post will define carbon monoxide poisoning, delve into the risks associated with it, and explain how HVAC maintenance can mitigate this potentially lethal threat.

How to Guard Your Home Against the Silent Threat of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Read on to learn how you can protect against your home from CO poisoning:

1. Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be produced in your home when fuels like natural gas, oil, wood, or propane are not burned completely. Common household appliances can become sources of CO when they are inadequately maintained or malfunction. Some examples of these appliances include the following:

  • Furnaces
  • Water heaters
  • Fireplaces
  • Gas stoves

The gas can escape into your living space, silently putting your family’s safety at risk.

2. Considering the Risks

The insidious nature of CO poisoning lies in its initial flu-like symptoms. Understanding what these symptoms may look like can be helpful in identifying a carbon monoxide leak. Some of the primary symptoms may include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Shortness of breath

Prolonged exposure to elevated CO levels can lead to severe health complications, and in extreme cases, it can be fatal. Tragically, the invisible nature of this gas often means that its presence goes undetected until it’s too late.

3. Preventing CO Poisoning

One of the most effective ways to safeguard your home and family from the dangers of CO poisoning is through regular HVAC maintenance. Our certified technicians can inspect and service your heating systems, ensuring they operate safely and efficiently. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any issues that could potentially release CO into your living space.

Additionally, installing carbon monoxide detectors is a crucial preventive measure. These devices emit an alarm when they detect elevated CO levels, serving as an early warning system for your safety.

To protect your loved ones from this silent threat, it’s imperative to schedule routine HVAC maintenance. At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric, we’re dedicated to keeping your heating systems in top condition and ensuring your home remains a safe, CO-free environment. Take proactive measures to protect your home and health, and don’t wait until disaster strikes.

If you have any questions about carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent it, please contact us. We’re ready to help!

11 Things to Look for When Installing a New Furnace

A properly maintained furnace can last approximately 20 years. That said, a furnace nearing the end of its life needs immediate replacement to help keep your home warm, especially at night.

Most professionals do an excellent job and will guide you through the installation process. Regardless, knowing what to look out for before, during, and after installation is essential. There are 11 things that homeowners must watch out for when technicians install a new furnace.

1. Size

An oversized unit can cause overuse of energy, while an undersized furnace won’t heat your home effectively. Simply put, your furnace must match your home’s square footage, which you can confirm during installation. A professional HVAC technician can help you confirm you have the right size before installation begins.

2. Thermostat

The thermostat is an important part of your new furnace, and the technician must set it correctly. If it isn’t programmed or connected correctly, your furnace will not be able to regulate temperature accurately.

Additionally, incorrect thermostat readings can increase energy bills. If the thermostat reading is too low, for example, the thermostat may work longer than necessary, thus overworking the system. A professional technician can show you how to check it periodically to ensure everything is running properly. This could also increase its lifespan.

3. Wiring

Proper wiring ensures your furnace functions safely and properly. Our experts know the type of wiring and electrical components needed for the installation process. Before completing the job, we also test all connections to ensure everything is functional.

4. Air Filter

The air filter is an essential part of your furnace that helps to keep dust and other particles out of the air in your home. Our technicians double check filter functionality to allow airflow throughout your home.

Besides, damaged filters risk dirty indoor air and potential health complications. Therefore, remember to replace the filter regularly according to manufacturer instructions. This will help ensure that your furnace continues to function correctly and efficiently for years to come.

5. Insulation

Insulation is essential to the installation process as it helps keep heat in and energy costs down. Poorly insulated spaces can cause unwanted drafts, uneven temperatures throughout your home, and higher electricity bills.

When installing your furnace, our technicians will add enough insulation around the unit to help optimize performance and efficiency. We will also help you check for any signs of damage or gaps where air may be escaping. Lastly, we will seal any gaps immediately to prevent further issues.

6. Location

Homeowners must determine the best location for proper airflow and insulation. Ideally, the chosen space should have enough room as well as access to a vent that leads outside. The space must also have a reliable electrical outlet.

7. Functional Air Vents and Air Ducts for Maximum Efficiency

Your contractor should inspect your air vents and home ductwork. Poorly sealed ducts can cause substantial energy loss, while debris and dirt can reduce the performance and efficiency of your furnace.

Besides, ventilation issues are a concern when installing a gas furnace, so seal your ducts and ensure they are unobstructed before installation.

8. Keep Flammable Items Away

Clear away items that can catch fire from heat. Also, don’t keep laundry or cleaning products in your furnace room, and ensure all solutions are in airtight containers. Some materials to remove from this area include sawdust, papers, wood scraps, gasoline, old rags, and paint.

9. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Check the batteries for your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to see if they need replacing. You can also test both devices to ensure their functionality.

10. Safety Concerns

Communicate with family members about the need to adhere to safety regulations during installation. This includes shutting off fuel or gas lines and all electrical breakers running to the furnace. Homeowners must also keep children away from the installation room because of exposure to power tools, heavy objects, and sharp metals that can cause an accident.

11. Test Run

A test run is crucial, and homeowners should never skip it. A technician should conduct it in your presence to ensure and confirm its functionality. Look out for any strange noises coming from the unit and any unusual smells or smoke.

Additionally, you can check the temperature of each room to ensure that heat is evenly distributed throughout the home. If anything looks off, a technician can address it right away.

Quality Installation

Do not compromise on quality installation. Our experts at Hometown Heating, Air & Electric are ready to offer professional furnace installation services in Cedarburg, WI and the surrounding communities. We also provide comprehensive heating, cooling, electrical, and indoor quality services. Contact us today!

Is It Smart to Save Money Buying a Used Furnace?

If you’re considering replacing your current furnace, you may have wondered if it’s OK to buy a used furnace to save some money. There’s a lot to weigh when comparing the option of buying a new furnace versus purchasing a used unit. You’ll need to consider things like price tags and different levels of efficiency. Buying used means you could end up with an energy hog or a highly efficient energy-saving machine; below are factors you can consider.

1. Check Its History

The first thing you need to do is investigate the furnace’s history. Make sure that it wasn’t recalled due to any safety issues in the past. Check its age and model number to make sure that there were no recalls or known problems with the unit. You can also ask the seller if they know any of its history and check with the manufacturer for more information.

2. Look for Signs of Water Damage

Water can cause serious damage to an older furnace and even lead to dangerous mold growth inside the unit. If the furnace is located in the basement — or another area that doesn’t get much air circulation — moisture and mold can be especially problematic. These conditions can cause corrosion, which can eventually lead to a leak or breakdown of the unit over time.

3. Examine the Heat Exchanger and Condensing Coils

The first thing to look for is a cracked heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is what keeps the exhaust fumes separate from the air that your family breathes. That’s why if there is a crack in the heat exchanger, it could possibly leak carbon monoxide into your home. If you suspect that has happened, you should not buy the furnace.

You also want to check the condensing coils. The condensing coils are very susceptible to damage from salt or other corrosives, which could be found in soils with high mineral content. You want to make sure they are not damaged or corroded when buying a used furnace.

4. Check for Wear, Tear, and Dirt on the Blower Motor

This is the most important part of a furnace. Check for signs of rust or corrosion on the blower fan. Rust is often a sign that water has entered the unit at some point in its life. This could mean it isn’t airtight and will allow moisture into the ducts when in use.

If you don’t see any rust, check for dirt on the fan or motor itself. If it’s dirty, this could indicate that it has been used heavily. You may need to remove insulation from the back of the furnace to get a good look at it.

Just how do you check for wear, tear, and dirt on the blower motor? You should be able to access this part of your furnace by opening up an access panel on its backside. If you can’t see it right away, try removing insulation from around it first — this may give you a better view of what’s going on inside your unit.

5. Consider the Age of a Used Furnace

If you are looking at purchasing a used furnace, then you will want to know the age of the furnace before making any final decisions. It is important to know the age of the furnace so that you will know how much life is left in it. You also need to consider how often or little the previous owner used it so that way you will be able to tell how much life is left in it as well.

A furnace can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years, depending on its brand and model. If the previous owner didn’t take good care of it, that could shorten the life span significantly. It could even cause safety issues if there are cracks or leaks in the system that could allow carbon monoxide gas into your home. This is why it’s so important to have an HVAC technician evaluate any used furnace before you buy it.

5. Check the Energy Efficiency

Furnaces are rated using the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). A higher AFUE means that more heat from the combustion process is transferred into your ductwork, which means less heat escapes through the flue. The higher the AFUE rating is, the more efficient your furnace will be.

When shopping for a used furnace, ask to see information on its AFUE rating. If you’re buying from an individual homeowner, they may not have this information available. In this case, ask how old their current furnace is and what year it was installed. From there, you can check average AFUE ratings by decade on the website of the company that made the furnace to get an idea of what their current system may be rated at.

At Hometown Heating, Air & Electric in Cedarburg, we can come out and assess your furnace and let you know if you need a new one. We also perform AC services as well as indoor air quality tests. Call today to set up service.