During prolonged freezing weather, using a pellet stove or wood stove can have dangerous consequences. These stoves can trick thermostats into thinking your home is warmer than it is and cause your heating systems to stay inactive. To protect boiler pipes from cold weather, it is important not to use wood stoves or pellet stoves. Without adequate heat and water flow, boiler pipes located in corners and near exterior walls may freeze, leading to a range of costly issues that are best avoided.
Gas furnaces should be maintained at least once a year by a qualified HVAC technician. Regular maintenance helps to ensure that the furnace operates safely and efficiently and can help prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.
There are several signs that can indicate it's time to replace your furnace. Here are some of the most common signs:
- Age of the furnace: The age of the furnace is one of the most significant factors in determining if it's time for a replacement. Most furnaces last between 15-20 years, and as they age, they become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
- Frequent repairs: If your furnace requires frequent repairs, it may be time to consider a replacement. As furnaces age, they become less reliable and more likely to break down.
- Increasing energy bills: If your energy bills have been steadily increasing even though your usage has remained the same, it could be a sign that your furnace is no longer running efficiently and is consuming more energy than it should.
- Uneven heating: If some rooms in your home are consistently colder than others, it could be a sign that your furnace is no longer able to distribute heat evenly throughout your home.
- Strange noises: If your furnace is making unusual noises such as banging, rattling, or squeaking, it could indicate a serious problem that requires a replacement.
- Poor indoor air quality: If you notice an increase in dust, dry air, or other indoor air quality issues, it could be a sign that your furnace is no longer functioning properly and needs to be replaced.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it's important to have a qualified HVAC technician from A.J. LeBlanc Heating determine whether a replacement is necessary. Our professional technicians can assess the condition of your furnace and recommend the best course of action based on your specific needs and budget.
The operating cost of a heating system depends on several factors, including the rated efficiency of the system, the cost of fuel or electricity, and the climate in which it operates.
When considering different heating systems, such as furnaces, boilers, pellet stoves, and heat pumps, which has the lowest operating cost? In general, heat pumps tend to have the lowest operating cost among heating systems. Heat pumps are highly efficient because they move heat rather than generate it, which means they use less energy to produce heat. Additionally, the cost of electricity, which is the primary energy source for heat pumps, tends to be lower than the cost of other fuels, such as oil or propane. The efficiency of a heat pump decreases as the outside air gets colder. During the warmer shoulder months (Spring and Fall) heat pumps can have a COP (Coefficient of Performance) of 4 or greater. Even when outside temperatures dip into the single digits, heat pumps can operate with a COP of 2, while the most efficient furnaces and boilers only have a COP of .97.
Heating your home is a major expense during the winter months, and it's important to choose the most cost-effective and efficient method for your needs. Two popular options are an oil furnace and an air source heat pump. In this article, we will compare the efficiency and cost per million BTUs of these two heating systems.
As the winter season approaches, homeowners may be considering their heating options and weighing the pros and cons of different systems. Two common heating options are propane furnaces and boilers, and air source heat pumps. In this article, we'll compare the efficiency and operating costs of these systems.
When it comes to choosing a heating system for your home, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is whether to go with a boiler connected indirect water heater or a tankless coil. While tankless coil boilers are often considered contractor-grade, they still have their benefits, and understanding the differences between the two can help you make an informed decision.
Propane regulators are critical components of a propane gas system that regulate the pressure of propane gas flowing from the propane tank to the appliances. A faulty regulator can cause problems with your propane gas system, such as low gas pressure, poor appliance performance, and even gas leaks. It is important to know the signs of a bad propane regulator so that you can address the issue promptly and avoid any safety hazards.
![Navien NPF Furnace](/img/Navien-NPF-Furnace.webp)
A.J. LeBlanc Heating is excited to offer the latest in home heating technology with the installation of Navien's new NPF hydronic furnace. This state-of-the-art system is designed to provide superior efficiency and comfort for modern homes.
Advanced Technology for Optimal Performance
The Navien NPF hydronic furnace integrates advanced features that set it apart from traditional heating systems. Its high-efficiency condensing technology ensures maximum heat output with minimal energy consumption, significantly reducing utility bills. This eco-friendly approach aligns with growing demands for sustainable home heating solutions.