What you need to know about heating system replacement and installation

If your heating system is more than 10 years old, it may not be putting out the amount of heat it’s supposed to. The replacement and installation of your heating system could help you reduce your energy bills and greatly improve the comfort of your home.

The replacement and installation of an outdated heating system with an energy-efficient model has many benefits. Besides offering better fuel efficiency, a new system will keep the air in your home free of dust and allergens. It’s also a satisfying way to reduce your energy footprint.

How do you know if it’s time to replace your heating system? Here are some clues:

• Some areas in the home are too hot or too cold
• The heating system no longer meets the energy demands of your family
• The furnace is noisy or requires frequent repairs
• Your energy bills rise, while the temperature in your home plummets
• Moisture problems are starting to appear or your home is often dusty

To choose wisely, you’ll have to take into consideration the square footage of your home, the number of windows you have, the degree of insulation, your local climate and which kind of equipment is already in place, such as baseboard heaters or furnace ducts.

It’s not easy to predict what your energy bills will look like after you install a new heating system. Your costs will depend on several factors: your energy needs, the size of your home and the number of rooms to be heated, the condition of your pipes or ductwork and any additional equipment you might need to buy, such as thermostats or air filters. Use your bargaining power; call several heating contractors to get estimates for the replacement and installation of your home heating system.

You’re still not sure if replacing your heating system is the best solution for you? Have your current unit inspected by a heating contractor. They can help you determine whether you can get another year or two out of what you have now. If it looks like you need a replacement, ask the contractor what they’d recommend and then talk to some other experts before you decide. Don’t forget to ask for tips on how to improve the energy efficiency of your home, especially if you decide to stick with your old system for the time being.