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.
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.
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.
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.
Ecobee's "Aux Heat Runtime Alert" sets the amount of time that the auxiliary heat source can run continuously before an alert is generated. Auxiliary heat is the backup or secondary heat that assists or takes over for your heat pump. In New Hampshire, auxiliary heat is typically a furnace, boiler, or electric strip heater. The default setting for this alert is 3 hours. If your auxiliary heat runs for 3 hours in a day, the alert will be generated. This is typically not cause for concern, in New Hampshire there are many days when the auxiliary heat source or backup heat should take over. The Aux Heat Runtime Alert can be disabled, or the time can be increased to remove or reduce the frequency of the alerts.