Winter here in Friendswood, TX, brings shorter days and reduced sunlight. It’s a combination that can trigger the blues. So can a furnace that doesn’t produce enough winter warmth.
Upgrading your heating system is one way to banish the blues. However, choosing the ideal system can feel overwhelming. This guide will help you find the best heating solution for your home.
So ditch the parka, get cozy, and explore your options for furnace replacement.
Signs You Need a New Heating System
The average furnace lasts 15-20 years, but with good heating and cooling maintenance, many furnaces last longer. If you’re dealing with an aging furnace, it’s time to consider upgrading.
The furnace usually offers clues that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Signs include:
- Age and inefficiency
- Frequent furnace repair
- Uneven heating
- Increased energy bills
- Strange noises or smells
As your furnace ages, its efficiency declines, meaning you’re spending more money on energy for less heat. You’re likely investing more in repairs as well. Replacing an old furnace with a newer, higher-efficiency model can significantly reduce energy bills and keep your home comfortable.
Fueling the Fire: Choosing the Right Source for Your Heating System
The heart of any new heating system is its fuel source. Each choice below offers unique advantages and considerations.
Natural Gas
Abundant in Friendswood, natural gas delivers powerful heat. This fuel offers competitive prices, making it a budget-friendly option. Be aware that natural gas prices can fluctuate, impacting long-term energy costs.
Natural gas is also considered one of the cleanest fossil fuels you can use. Depending on your home’s existing infrastructure, a new gas line installation might be necessary.
Electric
If your home is already wired for electricity, switching to an electric heating system can be a seamless transition.
Larger homes might need additional capacity upgrades to accommodate an electric heating system. While efficient in mild climates, electric systems might struggle to keep up in extreme cold, requiring backup heating sources.
Opting for an electric furnace aligns with sustainability goals, reducing your carbon footprint.
Propane
Propane offers a reliable heating solution for homes lacking access to natural gas. Propane heating systems deliver strong performance, ensuring comfortable temperatures throughout the winter.
Tank refills and regular maintenance are part of the equation when choosing propane. Propane prices can vary depending on location and delivery schedules, impacting your overall heating budget.
Choosing the right fuel source depends on your needs, budget, and home environment. A qualified HVAC professional can help you determine the best match.
Finding the Ideal Heating System
Once you’ve chosen your fuel source, the next step is finding the perfect heating system type to match your home’s unique needs. Here’s a closer look at your options:
Furnaces
Considered reliable workhorses, furnaces deliver consistent warmth through existing ductwork. They’re efficient with gas or propane and ideal for homes with mild to moderate climates. While some homeowners prefer electric furnaces, their performance pales in comparison.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps harness the air’s natural warmth. They’re an efficient and cost-effective heating solution in mild climates. Heat pumps can significantly reduce heating bills but require backup heating in extreme cold.
Again, consulting a qualified HVAC professional can help you learn more about your options and find the perfect solution for your specific comfort and energy-saving goals.
Choosing the Right Fit: Other Essential Considerations
Picking the fuel source and heating system type comes first, but there are a few other things to consider before you make the final decision. Consider these other key factors: your home’s size and insulation, and Friendswood’s typical winter temperatures.
Your home’s square footage and insulation levels are crucial in determining the right heating system size. Poorly insulated or large homes need more power for proper heat distribution. Smaller, well-insulated spaces tend to stay warm enough with a smaller unit.
Selecting the right size furnace ensures your system operates efficiently and keeps your entire home at a comfortable temperature.
Don’t forget about climate. Friendswood’s typical winter temperatures and your specific heating needs should also guide your choice. If mild chills are your biggest worry, a heat pump might be sufficient. But for those bone-chilling nights, a furnace is the best option.
Next, we’ll help you decode efficiency codes. It’s a good idea to get familiar with how manufacturers rate heating systems for efficiency and performance.
Understanding Efficiency Codes for Heating Systems
When you’re ready to choose a new heating system, deciphering efficiency ratings can feel like cracking a secret code. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key terms you’ll encounter:
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)
This rating applies to gas-fired systems like furnaces. It tells you what percentage of heat your furnace produces for every dollar of fuel it consumes. The higher numbers indicate greater efficiency.
Aim for an AFUE of 90% or above to get the most for your energy dollars.
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)
This rating is all about heat pumps. It measures how efficiently the system extracts heat from the air to warm your home throughout the heating season. Higher HSPF values mean you’ll get more bang for your buck.
Look for an HSPF of 8 or above for optimal performance.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
While not directly related to heating, some systems also offer cooling capabilities. SEER tells you how efficiently the system cools your home. If you’re looking for a year-round solution, consider models with high SEER ratings as well.
Higher efficiency ratings generally translate to lower energy bills and a more environmentally friendly heating (and cooling) experience.
Guarantee Your Winter Warmth With a New Heating System
Winter is coming to Friendswood. If your heating system didn’t provide enough winter warmth last year, now is the time to upgrade.
When you search for heating and cooling near me, you’ll find us, P & M Air Conditioning and Heating. Our family-owned business has helped keep Friendswood, Texas families warm since 1947. We offer heating replacement, heating and cooling maintenance, and indoor air quality solutions.
Reach out today with questions or to request a free furnace estimate.