With Raleigh’s overnight winter temperatures hovering in the low 30s, a reliable heating system is necessary for staying comfortable. Chilly rooms, clunky furnace noises, and rising utility bills are just a few common signs that your heating system needs replacement. Discover the benefits of replacing your old heating system, including how an upgrade can save you money while keeping you comfortable all year long.
Signs Your Heating System Is Outdated
An outdated heating system typically comes with red flags, from rising utility costs to unexpected smells and sounds. Learn the signs of an old heating system so you’ll know when it’s time to make the switch.
Frequent repairs and high maintenance costs
While the occasional repair may be necessary to keep your furnace running smoothly, there’s a tipping point where frequent repairs become more costly than investing in a new heater. If you find that large or costly components are breaking, you likely have an outdated heating system.
Rising energy bills
Older systems tend to consume more energy, meaning you’ll spend more to maintain a comfortable home temperature. Keep an eye out for unusual changes in your energy bill like higher costs in spring and fall, or unexplained spikes in your utility bill.
Noise, smells, or other warning signs
Major heating system problems may even offer a loud warning sign — think banging, rattling, or an unusual smell. In addition to signalling an outdated system, issues like an overheating control board can also increase the risk of fire or other safety hazards.
Why Replacing Your Outdated Heating System Is the Best Option
When your heating system is outdated, it’s better to skip the costly repairs. Replacing your heater offers better reliability, higher efficiency, and improved home comfort at lower long-term costs.
Improved energy efficiency and lower heating costs
Heating systems have come a long way in the last 20 years, with more options for high-efficiency systems at affordable costs. Switching your outdated furnace for a modern solution not only improves performance, but provides greater heating power at a lower cost.
Enhanced comfort and reliability
Modern variable-speed furnaces let you create your perfect temperature environment, while the sturdy build and warranties that come with a new heater provide peace of mind — even if you’re facing the white Christmas of 2010.
Environmental benefits
A high-efficiency heating system is a bonus for you and the environment — alongside a reduced carbon footprint, you may also qualify for rebates and financial incentives for making an energy-efficient home upgrade.
Repair vs. Replacement: When to Choose Replacement
At Thermo Direct, we understand it’s not always easy or convenient to replace your system. That said, there are times when replacement is the best option.
Age of your heating system
Most furnaces last 15 to 20 years, while boilers typically last around 20 years and heat pumps last 10 to 20. If your heating system is reaching the end of its expected lifespan, it may be more efficient to consider replacement.
Safety concerns
Older heating systems may come with safety risks such as increased chances of fire or carbon monoxide leaks. They may also not meet updated safety standards. A new system will have the safety features and warranties that provide peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Heating System for Your Home
The right heating system can make a big difference to the comfort and safety of your home. At Thermo Direct, our pros can provide helpful insights on finding the best heating system for your home, from type to features, and more.
Types of heating systems to consider
There are three main types of heating systems: furnaces, heat pumps, and boilers. An energy-efficient furnace uses ducts to move hot air through your home, creating an even temperature throughout. Boilers move hot water through radiators, which allows you to set each room to a different temperature. Heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling — a bonus when Raleigh summers hit the mid-90s.
Features to look for in a modern heating system
Upgrading your heating system also offers the convenience, comfort, and efficiency of modern features. Keep an eye out for Energy Star ratings: products that meet these federal standards have a label to indicate their efficiency. Other helpful features include smart thermostats for precise temperature control and variable-speed motors to boost efficiency while keeping a consistent temperature even while outdoor weather fluctuates.
Benefits of Partnering With Professional Heating Repair Services
When you partner with a professional heating repair service in the greater Raleigh area, you know you’ll get an expert diagnosis and safe advice for your next steps. A pro can tell you whether it’s more cost-effective to repair or replace your system, as well as insights into which heating system is the best fit for your home and lifestyle.
They’ll also ensure your new system is installed safely and correctly, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs. At Thermo, we offer upfront costs, financing plans, and promotions for heating system replacements, so you can budget for your new heater with no hidden fees or unexpected costs.
How to Get Started With Replacing Your Heating System
If an outdated heating system feels daunting, there’s no need to stress — our pros at Thermo Direct make the inspection and replacement process easy.
Schedule an inspection
The first step is to schedule a professional assessment of your heating system. An inspector can diagnose the problem and advise you on repairs or replacements. Expect your pro to go over ductwork and interior components of your system, check filters, test controls, and provide recommendations.
Explore replacement options
Your heating inspector will provide guidance on furnace installation and replacement, including energy-efficient options and the best heating solutions for your home. If you’re interested in a specific model or are wondering about eco-friendly rebates, come prepared with a list of questions to go over with your inspector.
Contact Us for Professional Heating System Replacement and Repair
If you’ve seen any of the above issues, or if you suspect your heating system is outdated, Thermo Direct delivers the professional know-how you need. We also offer transparent pricing and competitive financing options to help you access the services you need. Reach out to us if you’ve noticed any bad smells, noises, or spikes in your utilities bills, and we can perform a thorough inspection and diagnosis.
