Benefits of Replacing Your AC and Furnace at the Same Time

If you want year-round comfort in your home, it all comes down to the HVAC systems you choose to cool your home in the summer and warm your home in the winter.

When it comes time to replace a unit, it’s tempting to replace them one at a time. Most homeowners will replace the system that’s giving them the most trouble at the time. The one they’ll rely on the most in the next few months.

For example, if your furnace is on the fritz in December, you’ll want to install a new one ASAP with more blistering cold on the way. No different than how you’ll replace your home’s AC system if your current unit craps out in July with the heat and humidity of August still to come.

Few people stop to realize that they’d conserve more energy and save more money over the long haul if they replace both systems at the same time – even one that’s seen better days but is still working.

Here are a few reasons replacing your furnace and A/C systems at the same time will benefit your home and your wallet.

Energy Efficiency

The heating and cooling systems manufactured today are incredibly energy efficient – much more than the HVAC systems built just 10 to 15 years ago.

The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating is how you’ll compare the efficiency of different air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER, the less energy it uses and the less it will cost to operate. Newer systems will have a SEER rating of 13 or higher. 13 is the government’s minimum standard for cooling systems.

Furnaces are measured by their AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). A unit with an AFUE of 90% or more is considered an energy efficient furnace system.

Did you know? Depending on the quality and efficiency of the unit, today’s furnaces will generally last you anywhere from 15 to 20 years; a central air conditioning system can last anywhere from 12 to 15 years.

Optimal Performance

Replacing just one component of your HVAC system can actually decrease the overall performance and efficiency of both your heating and cooling system.

For instance, if you install a new high-efficiency central AC, but you’re still hanging on to an older less-energy efficient furnace, you’re not getting the best bang for your buck from the newer more energy efficient system.

Think of your furnace and air conditioning system as a powerful one-two punch. Matched systems will complement one another. After all, your AC and furnace share the same air handler/blower. A matched system with an efficient handler will result in optimal system operation and home comfort.

Simply put, a matched system might cost you more right now but it will save you more in the long run. There are a few reasons for this:

  • Matched components will work in sync together for maximum efficiency.
  • Matching a new system with an older inefficient one can quite possibly decrease the lifespan of the new system you’ve just invested in.
  • When it comes to warranties, manufacturers aren’t required to honor warranties of new systems that break down during the warranty period if they were combined with an older system.

You also have to remember that both new systems will be under warranty, which will save you money if repairs are ever needed within a few years. That’s a luxury you won’t have if you have an old dated furnace in need or repairs every remaining year you rely on it.

Overall, new systems will require fewer repairs. Additionally, you’re likely to save money on installation by purchasing both systems together and having them installed by the same HVAC pro. For them, their job becomes much less complicated when installing both a new heating and cooling system at the same time.

NEED NEW AC & FURNACE INSTALLATION IN PITTSBURGH?

If you’d like a comprehensive assessment of your current HVAC system and to go over your options for air conditioning or furnace replacement, contact Top Notch Heating & Air at 412-381-0598 or visit https://topnotchair.com. We specialize in both air conditioning and furnace installation in Pittsburgh.

4 Tips To Keep Your Furnace Working All Winter Long

Winter is coming. The leaves have changed colors. The kids have all adjusted to their normal daily school routine. Trick or Treat has concluded. We’ve turned our clocks back. Soon, everything pumpkin spice will be phased out for peppermint mocha and Michael Buble will re-emerge from the cave he resides in for 10 months of the year to usher in the Holiday shopping season.

Hopefully, by now, your central air conditioning has long been shut off and covered. Any window AC units of yours have been removed and stored away in the attic or basement. It’s furnace season. It’s time to crank up that heat. While most of you are already running your furnace, unfortunately, many of you have also skipped the recommended annual furnace tune-up. This is why Top Notch Heating and Cooling – Pittsburgh PA HVAC experts – have put together some quick tips to help ensure your furnace runs optimally all winter long.

Replace Furnace Filters

Regularly replacing the filter in your furnace will prolong the lifespan of the unit. Not only will it keep your furnace running optimally throughout the winter, but it’ll also keep your gas bill down.

Unfortunately, for as simple as it is, many homeowners fail to change their furnace filters as often as they should. This can lead to rising heating bills and contribute to more serious and costly maintenance issues down the road.

So, how often should furnace filters be replaced? The cheaper fiberglass filters, which while cost-efficient, really don’t do a great job of filtering, should be switched out every 30 days. Higher-end pleated filters can last as long as 6 months before they need to be replaced; however, it’s generally recommended they be changed every 90 days. Filter efficiency decreases as more dirt, dust, and allergens from the air are trapped.

Clean the Heat Exchanger Annually

Here’s why you shouldn’t dismissively wave off any mention of annual furnace maintenance. Heat exchangers need to be professionally brushed and vacuumed once a year. Making sure heat exchangers are properly maintained and cleaned annually will prevent expensive complications later. Dirty heat exchangers can contribute to anything from a poorly performing furnace to the need for total equipment replacement.

Dirt, soot, and sediments are only a few contributors to dirty heat exchangers. There can also be a crystallization of salts and minerals, organic fouling from organisms, and chemical fouling as well. Corrosion from water and condensation build up or the use of chemicals must also be cleaned.

In addition to cleaning, heat exchangers also need to be inspected annually. Particularly to look for cracks that could allow dangerous carbon monoxide to leak into a home.

Clean Your Air Ducts

Heat is blown through your air ducts. It’s a good idea to have your air ducts checked every season to make sure there’s no obstruction inhibiting airflow. It’s not uncommon for objects to get inside your ductwork and create a blockage. A professional HVAC technician can thoroughly clean a vent’s exterior and remove any obstructions.

Check Your Thermostat

You may think this is a no-brainer, but we get so many calls every year from homeowners reporting an issue with their furnace who are really experiencing a completely correctable issue with their thermostat.

Replace the batteries in your thermostat when you first turn your furnace on. If it’s time to replace your thermostat, consider a programmable one that lets you set different temperatures throughout the day or even program temperature changes through a smartphone app. Modern thermostats like these are a great way to effectively lower heating costs.

NEED A FURNACE TUNE UP IN PITTSBURGH PA?

We recommend that homeowners in the Pittsburgh area have their HVAC equipment inspected and maintained twice a year. Once prior to running your AC unit and then again prior to running your furnace. Contact Top Notch Heating and Cooling today for the best HVAC in Pittsburgh. Call 412-381-0598 to schedule your annual Pittsburgh furnace tune-up or if you’re experiencing any problem with your furnace. Or reach out to us at https://topnotchair.com/contact.

Are Annual Furnace Inspections Really Necessary?

Your furnace is the heart of your home in the wintertime. Without it, it would be impossible for your home to be habitable on a cold winter’s night. This is why it’s important to keep it well maintained if you intend on staying warm all winter long. This requires a furnace inspection by an HVAC professional. But how often does this inspection really need to occur?

The simple answer is service schedules sort of differ depending on the brand and type of furnace in your home. Most manufacturers will recommend a service schedule of once every 2 to 5 years. For the Pittsburgh area homeowners we serve, due to the harshness of Western Pennsylvania winters, as well as environmental and architectural (lots of older large homes) components, we recommend your furnace be inspected once a year. Preferably, prior to its first use when the weather turns cold.

Is it necessary? The best analogy we can think of is it’s like scheduling a dental appointment every six months. You’re going for a basic check-up and cleaning. It’s probably not necessary but it’s recommended since the overall health of your mouth will be better through the long run. You’re less likely to be one of those people running to the dentist in agonizing pain from a sudden toothache. The dentist will catch issues when they’re small; before they become a bigger problem.

That’s the idea behind an annual furnace inspection. Looming issues can be caught before they escalate into a more expensive problem. You’re less likely to need to call an emergency 24-hour HVAC service when your furnace suddenly stops working on a cold, cold night. That’s because an inspection and some maintenance before you start running your furnace will prevent that complete system failure from happening.

But what does a furnace inspection and tune-up consist of?

Every HVAC contractor is going to have a description with subtle differences in language that make it almost impossible to compare services between competing heating companies. For instance, you may see this service described as a furnace “check-up”, “safety check”, “certification”, “tune-up”, “complete tune-up”, “basic tune-up”, “ or “annual maintenance check-up.”

Services will vary from one HVAC contractor to the next. This is why you need to know exactly what services the HVAC company you hire will provide as part of their annual inspection and tune-up. We’ve compiled this list of generic services recommended annually by different furnace manufacturers. These manufacturers expect these services to be carried out by a qualified HVAC technician:

  • Check vent system for blockage/leakage
  • Check blower access door to ensure the seal at the furnace is tight
  • Analyze and compare combustion gases to the unit specifications
  • Inspect heat exchanger for rust and corrosion
  • Check fresh air intake grills and louvers for blockage
  • Check drainage system for blockage and/or leakage
  • Check burners for proper ignition, burner flame, and flame sense
  • Check blower wheel needs for debris and remove blower wheel to clean if necessary
  • Clean condensate drain and trap and replace water in the trap
  • Check wiring for corrosion and damage.
  • Conduct amp-draw test on the blower motor and compared with what is listed.
  • Check and replace filters if necessary (this needs to be done several times a year)

In addition to this list, gas pressure testing plus static air pressure and temperature rise checks are also performed.

What does a HVAC Tune Up Cost?

You get what you pay for. A cheap furnace tune up will most likely skip some important services. Remember, annual furnace maintenance isn’t just about safety. Preventative maintenance is another reason you want a yearly furnace tune-up. The more thorough the inspection and cleaning services are, the less likely it is you’ll wake up in the middle of a January night with no heat thanks to a furnace that has quit working altogether. When that happens, you’ll need an emergency HVAC service since your furnace stopped working, which means you’ll be paying emergency rates. Paying a little more for an HVAC tune up will ultimately save you money in the long run.

LOOKING FOR RELIABLE PITTSBURGH FURNACE INSPECTION & TUNE-UP?

Top Notch Heating and Cooling provides HVAC tune-ups in Pittsburgh. If you’d like to learn which services our furnace tune-ups include, contact us today at 412-381-0598 or by reaching out to us online at https://topnotchair.com/contact.

Furnace Troubleshooting: Easy Answers to Common Problems

You love your furnace. You just don’t realize it until it craps out on you on a cold winter’s day. Then you realize exactly how much you’ve taken that furnace for granted. Without modern day furnaces, we’d still be huddled around a fire to stay warm. While we all appreciate a cozy night beside a fireplace, a furnace is there for us all day and all through the night. That is… until it stops working.

If your furnace isn’t kicking or warming your house property, here are a few furnace troubleshooting tips from Pittsburgh HVAC company Top Notch Heating and Air.

Check Your Furnace Filter

The air filter in your furnace gets dirty over time. An air filter that’s clogged by dust, dirt, and pet dander can prematurely breakdown or negatively impact how well your home is heated due to restricted airflow. It may also become a fire hazard.

Try to check your air filter every 30 days. One simple way to do this is by removing the filter and holding it up to a light. If you cannot see light passing through it, it’s time for the filter to be cleaned or replaced.

Filter replacement is a DIY endeavor. When installing a new filter, just make sure the arrows on it are pointing to the direction of the airflow. Then be sure to properly secure the access panel once you’re finished.

Check Your Thermostat

Once you’ve confirmed that the air filter is clean, or you’ve properly installed a new filter, it’s now time to check the thermostat.

People think we’re insulting their intelligence when we ask them to confirm the thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is set to at least 5 degrees higher than the current indoor temperature. Yet, every winter, we get at least one of those calls from a confused homeowner who can’t figure out why their heat isn’t kicking on.

Often times the batteries in the thermostat need to be replaced or an electromechanical thermostat may need to be opened and gently dusted with a soft paintbrush.

Another common thermostat issue is its location can make it vulnerable to false readings if it’s in direct sunlight or located near a space heater, oven, lamp, or another heat source. A thermostat receiving wrong input will send out the wrong output.

Check Furnace Switch & Electrical Panel

Many times there’s no problem whatsoever with the air filter and thermostat. However, the power could be an issue.

There will be a furnace switch located near the unit. Check to make sure it wasn’t accidentally turned off. Perhaps flip it back and forth a few times to make sure you hear some semblance of life.

If you don’t, then it might be time to head to the electrical panel to make sure the power at the breaker or fuse box is turned to on. Ideally, the breaker box will be properly labeled; however, if it isn’t, look for the breaker that’s in the opposite direction of the others. That will be the one you’ll want to flip from off to on to reset. You’ll hear a click when you do this.

If it’s a fuse box you’re dealing with, the bad fuse will look discolored and melted. Unscrew it and replace it with a fuse of the exact same type and size. The easiest way to ensure you find an identical fuse is to take the old one to the store and pick out a matching replacement.

Once you’ve done this, turn your furnace switch on to see if power to your furnace has been restored. If there’s still no power, or the breaker has tripped again, it’s time to call an HVAC professional.

NOTE: Prior to resetting power, ensure your hands and feet are completely dry. Do not touch anything If there are visible signs of electrical damage or moisture.

Check Furnace Flame

Your furnace flame should be a healthy blue color. This blue flame is an indicator that your gas furnace is burning fuel safely and efficiently. There might also be a small yellowish tip.

What you don’t want to see is a flame that’s red, purple, green, or completely yellow. When you see this, you need to immediately contact an HVAC professional.

Pilot light & Gas Valve

If your furnace flame is out, you can relight it on your own. Just be sure to consult your unit’s owner’s manual for instructions and proceed with caution. Be sure to turn your gas off for about 10 to 15 minutes before you attempt to relight the pilot. Do not continue if there’s even the faintest smell of gas! That could suggest a gas leak and you’ll need to evacuate your family from the premises and call your gas company ASAP to report a leak.

Properly Secure Front Panel

Many furnaces will not run properly if the front access panel isn’t properly secured or pressed in all the way.

Make Sure All Vents & Registers Are Open & Unobstructed

If certain rooms in your house aren’t getting proper heat or airflow, make sure all the supply and return grills throughout your home are fully opened and unobstructed. Vents and registers might be blocked by furniture, appliances, rugs, or anything else. Not only is your overall comfort affected, but the excessive air pressure builds up in your ductwork due to the obstruction, which could cause a leak or a premature furnace breakdown.

Contrary to popular belief, shutting off the vents and registers in unused rooms is NOT recommended. It doesn’t save you any significant money on your heating bill and may actually damage your heating system.

GET PROFESSIONAL FURNACE TROUBLESHOOTING IN PITTSBURGH PA

If you’re having problems with your furnace, do not hesitate to contact Top Notch Heating & Air at 412-381-0598 or reach out to us online at https://topnotchair.com/contact. Explain the problem you’re experiencing to Bill and he or one of our team members will be at your home ASAP to assess and resolve your problem.

New Furnace Installation Done Right

A new furnace is a significant investment. To get the most of this investment, your new furnace needs to be properly installed. Proper installation will help ensure your furnace runs optimally for up to 15 to 20 years. A system that isn’t installed to correct specifications is more likely to fail earlier. Components will wear and tear

You typically purchase a new furnace for improved indoor comfort. A warmer house. More reliability. If it’s a high-efficiency rating, you might also be looking to lower your heating bills.

However, a furnace that isn’t properly installed won’t sufficiently heat your home. It may have to work harder to get the job done; consuming more energy in the process. It is said that a poorly installed furnace can decrease performance efficiency by up to 30%.

In today’s post, TopNotch Heating & Air offers some helpful tips to ensure this big job is done right.

Find the Right Contractor

Furnace installation is a job for only a licensed and qualified HVAC professional. You should never attempt to install such a complex mechanical system on your own. Only a qualified HVAC contractor can properly install your system to ensure it runs optimally all winter long.

When choosing an HVAC tech for your new furnace installation, be sure to do the following:

Check Contractor’s Website: Most reputable HVAC contractors these days have a website. Review their site, its content, and customer testimonials. If it resonates with you, give them a call.

Check Contractor’s Online Reviews: Be sure to check the online reviews and customer ratings of any contractor you’re considering. Happy satisfied customers are always a good sign.You should get plenty of insight into your technician’s professionalism and quality of work.

Be Sure to Budget Properly

The average cost to install a new furnace is roughly $4,000. Quotes from contractors will vary depending on equipment factors such as fuel types or features. Any additional work the contractor must complete as part of the installation – for instance, installing ductwork – will also bump up the price. You have to also keep in mind that every contractor will charge differently for their time and labor. Someone in your area with a solid reputation may have higher fees.

Prep The Area

While nobody but a professional HVAC tech can install a new furnace, there are a few things homeowners are encouraged to do. Be sure to clear the area. Any items stored within six feet of the installation site should be removed. Make sure any door or gates your contractor will need access to are open or unlocked. You want the contractor to have complete accessibility and adequate space to work in. It’s in the homeowner’s best interest that the installation goes as smoothly as possible.


NEED A NEW FURNACE INSTALLATION IN PITTSBURGH? CALL US TODAY

If you need a new furnace installation in Pittsburgh or one its surrounding suburbs, call TopNotch Heating & Air today at 412-381-0598 for a free estimate.

Things to Know When Replacing Your Furnace

At one point or another, you’ll need to replace the furnace at your home or business. Selecting the right make, model, and contractor can be trying. We fully understand that. This is why we’ve decided to put together this quick guide to selecting, purchasing, and installing a replacement furnace.

When Is It Time for a Replacement Furnace?

While there’s no exact way to predict when your current furnace will reach the end of its service life, there will be indicators and warning signs the end is near. Here are a few:

  • If your furnace’s age is nearing the 15-year mark, you may want to begin setting aside money for a replacement. While the actual service life of a furnace will vary depending on its usage and maintenance, most units average about 15 to 20 years.
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  • If your furnace seems to be breaking down more often, it may be on its last legs. A furnace tends to have more frequent issues the final two years of its service life. If it gets to the point where you’re calling your HVAC tech more and more for emergency furnace repair, it may actually be more cost efficient to replace the unit.
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  • If your HVAC tech has mentioned that your furnace isn’t properly sized for your home, you’ll want to seriously consider replacing it. Running an incorrectly sized furnace will lead to comfort control issues inside your home or business. Excessive energy will be consumed and money will be wasted. Replacing this unit is your best option to reduce energy costs, improve indoor comfort, and save money. You’ll just need a qualified HVAC expert to calculate your home or building’s heating load to ensure any replacement unit is properly sized.
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    What Is the Cost to Install a Replacement Furnace?

    Furnace installation prices will vary from one home to the next. The average cost nationally is generally around $4,000. It could be more or less depending on energy efficiency, system capacity, fuel source, and other features. Any need for changes to ductwork or air sealing requirements might also increase the cost of installation.

    Keep in mind that any quote to install a replacement furnace will also include the cost of your HVAC contractor’s time and labor.

    Things to Research Before a Replacement Furnace Installation

    Contractors – If you don’t already have an HVAC contractor, make sure you research your options in your area and get at least a few quotes. Family and friends are always good for recommendations. Be sure to check out any contractor’s web presence; particularly their online reviews. You’ll want to choose someone with a solid reputation, proper licensing, and insurance.

    Furnace Makes & Models – Ideally, you’ll have an HVAC contractor you trust navigating you through this process. There are many furnace manufacturers and models to choose from. Your HVAC specialist will assess your home or building’s needs and recommend a system with the features and efficiency you want.

    How To Prep For a Replacement Furnace Installation

    Once your installation is scheduled, make sure the area is accessible for your contractor to work. Clear out at least a six-foot space from where the furnace is being installed.

    From there, your licensed HVAC technician will ensure your replacement furnace is safely installed for optimal performance for many years to come.


    CALL TOPNOTCH HEATING & AIR FOR REPLACEMENT FURNACE INSTALLATIONS IN PITTSBURGH

    If you’re in the city of Pittsburgh or its suburbs, don’t hesitate to call TopNotch Heating & Air to assess whether it’s time for a replacement furnace installation in your home or business. Coupons for these services can be found on our website and we can be reached at 412-381-0598.