With Minnesota being the third coldest state in America, it is safe to say that heat is a top priority for Minnesotans. A good heating choice for people living in these climates is furnaces because they provide even and consistent heat throughout your home. With so many different types and models of furnaces on the market, make sure to do your research before moving forward with a furnace installation in St. Paul if you’re a resident of the Twin Cities.
When looking at furnaces, you need to know options are available so you understand what is best for your needs.
Three Common Furnaces
- Electric: These furnaces usually have the lowest cost upfront, but the caveat is that your electricity bills will be higher. However, they are energy-efficient. These are good options for people living in milder winters. Electric furnaces are easy to install and maintain. Because of this, they can last longer.
- Gas: This is a popular option because they work best in harsh winters. These furnaces are more expensive to buy. However, the monthly fees are lower to operate than an electric version, and it will heat the home faster.
- Oil: Approximately five million people use this option to heat their homes in the USA. There is not much cost to these furnaces because you are just using oil to heat the house, which is great for harsh winters. Even though there is not much of an operational cost, you will have to pay for the oil the furnace uses. Oil has become more expensive; perhaps this is why oil furnaces aren’t as popular as they once were.
There are also other alternatives for heating homes. Boilers heat homes just like furnaces, but they distribute the heat through hot water instead. Then there are heat pumps; you can think of these as air conditioners in reverse. Heat pumps will remove the cold air from the house. All these can also be a good option when you think about heating installation in St. Paul.
There are some things to be mindful of when looking to install heating in your home. Make sure you consult a professional for the installation because of their expertise. They can help you pick the right furnace and will educate you on aspects you might have missed. It’s also important to consider the size of the furnace or heater; not all heaters will fit your house or specific needs. Everybody getting a new heater should check the length of the warranty that comes with it—these can range from five to ten years. Sometimes parts break and your system breaks down, and it will be beneficial to know exactly what is covered under warranty for your furnace.
Furnace Repairs and Replacements
Repairs and replacements are inevitable at times. If you already have a furnace but are experiencing issues, a replacement may be needed. If you’re looking for furnace replacement in St. Paul, the ”Find Local Dealer” tool from iHeart Amana Brand can help.
There are two main reasons a furnace should be considered for a replacement.
Age: If the furnace lifespan is up, you will notice more breakdowns over time. A furnace’s lifespan can last for up to 20 years. However, this will greatly depend on the care and maintenance given to the system. You should consider the repair cost when deciding whether to repair it or replace it. If the repair cost is 50% of a new furnace, it is best to replace it instead. You should never pay more to repair than to replace.
Energy Efficiency: If you see a decline in the unit’s energy efficiency, it’s time to consider a replacement. If heating your home costs you more than before, it is a good indicator that the quality of your furnace is coming to an end.
Many professionals that do heating replacements in St. Paul will do walkthroughs of your home and give you a full analysis of your system. This will allow you to make a more informed decision on whether you need a repair or if you’re in need of a replacement. They can also give you estimates and timeframes for completing the replacement during those walkthroughs.
Maintenance should be a priority now that you have a new furnace installed. Be sure not to block the unit’s airflow and keep the ducts and vents clean. Be sure to take notice of weird noises and do visual checks of the system. Look for leaks, cracks, broken wires, and blocked vents. This will help you know when to call a professional to fix a problem sooner rather than later.
By using the iHeart Amana “Find Local Dealer” tool, you’ll be able to find a certified professional to help on your furnace journey.
