Replacement Furnace Installation Pittsburgh - Top Notch Heating & Air

Benefits of Replacing Your AC and Furnace at the Same Time

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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.

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Things to Know When Replacing Your Furnace

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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.