In the heart of winter in Clifton Park, NY, when snow blankets the ground and ice forms on windows, the warmth of your home becomes one of your top priorities. This season, as you enjoy the beauty of winter from the cozy indoors, you need to remember the role your heating system plays in making these moments possible. 

However, the performance and reliability of your heating system hinge on regular maintenance. Grasshopper Heating & Cooling is here to share how overlooking this essential task can lead to unexpected heating issues. When you have the right knowledge, you are prepared to keep your home warm and safe throughout the coldest months. 

Understanding the Essence of Heating Maintenance 

Heating maintenance is like giving your home’s heating system a health check. This simple step makes sure it’s ready to work hard when you need it most. Think of it as a tune-up that keeps everything running smoothly, from the filters that clean the air to the furnace that warms your house. It’s best to schedule this early so that any fixes are done before the cold really bites. 

This is all about making smart choices that keep your energy bills down and extend your system’s life. Local pros, familiar with Clifton Park’s climate, can spot and solve small heating issues before they turn big, ensuring you stay cozy all winter. By keeping up with maintenance, you’re protecting your home’s safety and your peace of mind. 

Navigating Through Heating Issues 

In the depths of winter, the difference between a cozy evening and a cold night can hinge on the health of your heating system. Many homeowners might not realize that regular maintenance is the key to consistent warmth and system reliability. By understanding the common heating issues that can arise from neglect, you’re taking a proactive step toward ensuring your home remains the warm, welcoming space you cherish, even as the temperatures outside drop. 

• Decreased Efficiency and Increased Energy Bills 
• Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs 
• Shortened Equipment Lifespan 
• Safety Hazards 
• Inconsistent Heating and Comfort Issues 

Decreased Efficiency and Increased Energy Bills 

Neglecting heating maintenance leads to a less efficient system. That, in turn, means your home uses more energy to heat every space. This inefficiency pushes your heating system to work harder, and it struggles to reach the comfort levels you’ve set. The result is an inflated energy bill. Dirty filters, along with wear and tear on burners and ductwork, obstruct the smooth operation of your heating system. The effort to push air through clogged filters or to compensate for failing parts results in substantial energy waste. Regular maintenance addresses these heating issues head-on, ensuring your system operates efficiently. That keeps your home warm and your energy bills in check without unnecessary spikes. 

Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs 

Without the preventative care of regular maintenance, heating systems are at a higher risk of experiencing breakdowns. The culprits often include worn-out components like belts and bearings or clogged filters and vents that strain the system. This not only leads to an uncomfortable chill in your home when you least expect it but also results in emergency repairs that can be costly. During the cold weather, when the demand on your heating system peaks, these problems become more pronounced. 

Keeping up with maintenance ensures that these potential heating issues are identified and addressed early, preventing inconvenient breakdowns and preserving the warmth of your home. 

Shortened Equipment Lifespan 

Neglecting regular maintenance on your heating system not only puts a strain on its efficiency but also accelerates the wear and tear of its components. This increased strain can lead to a shortened lifespan, forcing components to work harder and fail sooner than they should. For example, a furnace that might have lasted 20 years with proper care could need replacement after just 15. 

Regular maintenance serves as a form of preventative care, catching small heating issues before they become big problems, ultimately protecting your investment. By ensuring that all parts of your heating system are in good working order, you’re saving on potential future costs and ensuring that your system serves you longer and more reliably. 

Safety Hazards 

The importance of maintaining your heating system extends far beyond efficiency and lifespan; it directly impacts the safety of your home and family. A neglected heating system can become a source of dangerous pollutants, like carbon monoxide, which is odorless and colorless, making it a silent threat that can go unnoticed until it’s too late. Furthermore, systems burdened with dirt and malfunction can be prone to electrical failures or even fire hazards, posing a significant risk to your home’s safety. 

Regular maintenance isn’t just a check-up; it’s a comprehensive safety inspection that can identify and rectify potential hazards, ensuring that your home remains a haven. Ensuring your system is clean and functioning correctly reduces the risk of these dangers, providing peace of mind and a safer living environment. 

Inconsistent Heating and Comfort Issues 

One often overlooked consequence of skipping regular heating maintenance is the struggle to maintain consistent warmth throughout your home. When your heating system isn’t regularly serviced, you might find some rooms are too hot while others remain uncomfortably cold. This inconsistency is usually a sign that your system is losing its ability to distribute air evenly, often due to blocked vents, dirty filters, or failing mechanical components. 

Not only does this affect your comfort, but it also forces your heating system to work harder to compensate for these imbalances, which can further degrade its efficiency and reliability. Regular maintenance checks can identify and rectify these heating issues, ensuring your home enjoys even, comfortable heating. This improves your overall comfort and optimizes your system’s operation, making your living spaces more inviting during the cold months. 

Ready to Embrace a Warmer Winter? 

The best way to ensure a cozy and reliable heating experience this winter is by scheduling furnace maintenance with Grasshopper Heating & Cooling. Serving the area of Clifton Park, NY and the surrounding areas, we’re here to help make sure your heating system is prepared to provide uninterrupted warmth and comfort. 

Contact us today to secure your peace of mind when it comes to heating issues and take the first step toward a winter defined by warmth and no worry.

Before you decide on a new furnace install, there are a few things you should consider. Installing a furnace costs nearly $5,000 on average, but depending on the type of unit, you may spend nearly twice that.1 Carefully considering your purchase can help you get the most out of it regarding reliability, comfort, efficiency, and longevity (not to mention long-term savings). Here are 10 things to consider when working with a furnace installer near you. 

1. Age/Condition of Your Existing Furnace

A furnace can last 15 to 20 years. But that’s if you’ve changed the filter as recommended by the manufacturer and kept up with annual maintenance. Nevertheless, more frequent use and the need for warmer temperatures in your home can wear the unit out more quickly. 

Furthermore, the condition of your furnace can help determine whether to invest in a new one. If it needs frequent service and a repair will cost over half the price of a new unit, install a new furnace.

2. Type of Furnace

Choose the type of furnace based on your heating needs and available fuel sources. Your options generally include: 

• Gas Furnaces: A gas unit is often more expensive but can save on utility costs. It’s also extremely effective in cold winters. 
• Oil Furnaces: An oil-fueled heater is also suited for harsh winters, but the cost of oil can be a concern. It requires more maintenance but has no risks of a carbon monoxide leak.
• Electric Furnaces: Instead of combustion, an electric unit has heating coils that warm the air. Given the cost of electricity and the amount of power needed, electric furnaces are preferred in mild regions. 

3. Furnace Size/Capacity

The size of a furnace is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which reveal how much energy it uses to heat your home. The number of BTUs needed depends on your home’s square footage and climate. The colder your region is, the more BTUs you’ll need (for standard-efficiency furnaces, consider 30 to 60 BTUs per square foot). 

Consult with your heating contractor to perform a load calculation and select the right-sized furnace. An oversized or undersized unit will be less efficient and wear out sooner. You also won’t get the right level of comfort.

4. Efficiency

Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) measures the annual gas consumption of a furnace. The higher a furnace’s AFUE number, the less fuel it wastes. The minimum efficiency rating is 80 AFUE; a furnace that’s 15 years old or older is probably well below that. To be Energy Star rated, a furnace in the Southern U.S. must be at least 90 AFUE; in the Northern U.S. and Canada, it must be 95 AFUE. The highest efficiency rating available is 98 AFUE.

5. Location

Before a furnace is installed, you must know where the unit will go. Location is important because a furnace needs access to an electrical outlet and a vent. Here are some other considerations when it comes to selecting the proper location for a furnace:

• Airflow: If the unit is in too constricted of an area, poor airflow can affect performance and efficiency.
• Insulation: The furnace should be in an insulated space free of drafts and where heat won’t easily escape.
• Away from Flammable Materials: There must be no flammable materials near a furnace, including paper, wood scraps, sawdust, paint, cleaning products, or laundry.

6. Do You Need Ductwork?

Have a contractor check your ductwork and air vents before installing a furnace. No matter how high its efficiency rating is, the system won’t work at peak efficiency if your ducts are poorly sealed or dirty, or air vents are obstructed. Addressing any issues or replacing your ductwork before a furnace install ensures the unit will operate at peak efficiency.

7. Cost

The cost of a furnace depends on its size and efficiency. Single-stage units are typically less expensive than a two-stage or modulating furnace. Aside from the cost of equipment, consider extra costs, especially labor, which can add thousands of dollars to an installation project. The cost of installing, repairing, or updating gas lines and electrical systems is also a factor. Consider the cost of permits and high-efficiency programmable/smart thermostats as well.

8. Should I Convert to a Different Furnace?

Converting to a different furnace costs more than installing the same type. Updating from a propane to a natural gas furnace typically requires just a new gas line, so the additional cost isn’t that high ($150 to $300), but converting from an electric to a gas furnace can cost $1,200 to $9,850.2 Converting to an electric furnace (or any other if your service panel is outdated), requires replacing the breaker box, which can be expensive.

9. Technology

New technologies should always be considered when you hire furnace installers near you. The following can have benefits in terms of efficiency, comfort, and value:

• Blower Motor Technology: Designed to circulate heated air throughout your home, the blower motor consumes a lot of electricity. You can choose a standard blower motor, a constant torque motor that boosts efficiency over traditional motors, or a variable-speed motor that runs at low or medium speeds for precise control of comfort, humidity, and energy costs.
• Sound Reduction Technology: Features such as variable-speed blowers, sealed and insulated furnace cabinets, and low-noise gas burners reduce the amount of sound a furnace produces. Some units are so quiet you can’t tell they’re running.
• Smart Thermostat: This is a step up from a programmable model and can learn your temperature preferences and create a schedule for you. A smart thermostat can also sense when you’re home or away and adjust your heating system accordingly. You can also monitor and adjust temperature settings on your phone from anywhere.

10. Warranty

One reason to choose a leading brand is a long-term warranty. Look for warranties on the heat exchanger (which is typically covered for 20 years) and for components, including the blower motor, ignitors, and electronic controls. Limited warranties on parts typically range from one to 10 years. Check the terms of a limited warranty; it may exclude the cost of labor or any service if the product isn’t registered immediately after purchase.

Contact Grasshopper’s Furnace Installers Near Clifton Park, NY

At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, our NATE-certified contractors can always be counted on for a high-quality furnace install. They’ll evaluate your home and choose the right type and sized unit to improve efficiency, comfort, and equipment longevity and lower your energy bills. Our team also helps you understand how to use your new furnace’s various features. They’re available to provide maintenance, repairs, and other support as well.

To schedule an in-home furnace installation or replacement consultation, call us online or (518) 252-7937.

Source:

https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/hvac/new-furnace-cost/ 

https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/hvac/how-much-does-a-gas-furnace-cost/

A successful heating installation can be achieved with some diligence. We recommend following the tips below and not waiting until winter (or for your furnace to fail) to replace the unit. As you’re considering furnace replacement, having the right knowledge and making sound decisions can make your investment worthwhile for many years to come.

Here are 7 tips to help make that a reality:

1. Know What System You Currently Have

Gather as much information as possible about your HVAC system. Heating installation will go more smoothly if all the components match. Otherwise, the project will be more complex. You may also deal with equipment issues and costly repairs and replacements later. 

If you’re replacing your existing furnace with a similar one, the project will be simpler than, for example, replacing a gas furnace with an electric one or a heat pump. Once the contractor has all the information they need, they can make suggestions and explain the most practical and affordable options.

2. Pick a Reputable Heating Installation Contractor

An experienced professional should always handle the project. Whether you plan to have a gas, oil, or electric furnace installed, ask the contractor about their familiarity with it. Each type of heating system has specific installation requirements. For example, a gas furnace requires secure natural gas connections and a functional ventilation system.

The right contractor will provide you with affordable options that are best suited for your home. As you compare estimates, don’t assume the cheapest is the best. Saving money upfront can cost you more later, especially if your furnace is not installed properly. Also, consider any recommended add-on options. A reputable furnace installer can provide humidifiers and whole-home air purifiers to meet your individual needs.

3. Establish a Rapport with the Company

If you’re looking for a new heating contractor, don’t consider the installation a one-time exchange. You may need someone to fix issues in the future. Or, a professional’s advice and answers can prove highly valuable in keeping your furnace in top shape. 

A long-term relationship will mean the company knows your system and the repairs and maintenance services it has had. You won’t have to depend on a stranger when a problem arises. Instead, someone you can trust will show up and help save you money.

4. Purchase a Brand-New System

Don’t try to save on heating installation by having a used furnace installed. While installing a new unit is more expensive, a used model may develop problems sooner and require costly repairs. It will also be less powerful and less efficient. Aside from a higher cost of ownership, you’ll have to buy another furnace before you know it.

5. Make Sure the Unit Is the Right Size

Sizing a furnace is one of the most important parts of the installation process. The required heating power of the unit depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, climate, and other factors. Too small a furnace won’t heat your home effectively. It will also work harder and wear out sooner. Installing too large a unit can lead to problems as well.

6. Get a Warranty (If the Unit Doesn’t Come with One)

Most furnace manufacturers include a warranty with your purchase. Be leary if a unit is not warrantied. Heating system warranties range from 5 to 10 years and cover most repairs and defects. Purchasing an extended warranty can lead to longer-term savings, especially if an unexpected event or equipment issue results in needing major system repairs or a replacement.

7. Sign Up for a Maintenance Plan

Reputable heating installation companies offer maintenance plans that include annual inspections, cleanings, and tune-ups. Routine care helps your furnace run more efficiently and can extend its life by years, saving you thousands of dollars. Annual membership plans can also qualify you for discounts on repairs, priority scheduling, and lower fees for emergency services.

Schedule Heating Installation in Clifton Park, NY

The experienced technicians at Grasshopper Heating & Cooling are NATE-certified and familiar with all makes and models of heating equipment. We ensure each unit is properly sized and installed to save you money over the life of the system. For a free estimate on furnace installation and replacement, contact us online or call (518) 241-1762.

A DIY heating repair can put you in a lot of danger. Most homeowners don’t have the knowledge, tools, or equipment to pull off a furnace repair. Here are six hazards and risks you’ll face unless you hire a licensed and experienced HVAC professional.

1. Exposure to Carbon Monoxide

A byproduct of burning fuels, carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and toxic. It is normally contained and ventilated out of your home. But if your furnace is damaged, carbon monoxide can leak and cause a range of symptoms. In high concentrations, it can lead to unconsciousness and death. Check your carbon monoxide detector’s batteries regularly to ensure it’s working, and always call a heating repair technician just to be safe. 

2. Fire or Explosion

A damaged burner, heating element, pilot light, ignitor, or gas connection can trigger a fire. Faulty wiring is another risk. Don’t work on these parts and components if you don’t have experience. If there’s a gas leak, an explosion can have devastating and deadly consequences. Hiring a professional can save your life and your home.

3. Shock or Electrocution

Heating systems have various electrical connections. Touching a damaged wire or the wrong electrical component, or mishandling a loose connector, can result in a strong shock. You can also be electrocuted. 

Furnace repair work often requires turning off the power to the circuit first. That’s the only way to avoid exposure to electric current in the first place. But even if you turn off the breaker, a faulty component can carry an electric charge that can injure or kill you. Heating techs use protective equipment to avoid this.

4. Furnace Damage

If you haven’t received training or passed a certification test, you likely can’t correctly troubleshoot and diagnose a furnace problem. You may look in the wrong place to try to fix a minor issue. A DIY repair can result in damage to other components or worsen the problem you’re attempting to fix. 

Botching a DIY heating repair is often costly. The repairs you’ll need afterward can be much more expensive than having hired a professional in the first place.

5. Voiding the Warranty

An HVAC warranty typically requires repairs to be done by a certified professional. If you perform a DIY repair and damage the unit, the warranty will be voided and the manufacturer will not cover the repair cost. The cost of furnace repair, which includes parts, fees, and labor, can be quite expensive. Voiding the warranty is a risk best not taken.

6. Time-Consuming Repairs

A licensed professional usually completes a heating repair quickly. They have the experience and tools to do so. Plus, they’re on a tight schedule. But that doesn’t stop them from being thorough and effective.

It would take you much longer to troubleshoot the issue, gather the right tools, and disassemble and repair the unit. But a professional knows the proper solution and steps to complete the job in a short time.

Are There Any DIY Solutions to Heating Issues?

A heating repair must be left to a professional unless you can address an issue with any of these simple solutions:

• Adjust the thermostat
• Replace the thermostat battery
• Clean or replace the filter
• Reset the circuit breaker
• Secure the cabinet panel
• Clean out the drain line
• Remove leaves and debris from intake/exhaust vents
• Open or unblock HVAC vents

Contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

Our skilled technicians provide any heating repair. A furnace problem can originate from a faulty internal part or component or the unit’s gas or power supply. When you call, we’ll send a professional to quickly get your heating system back up and running. We’re available 24/7 for emergency repairs. Call if your system blows cold air, delivers uneven temperatures, makes strange noises, or smells like it’s burning. For immediate furnace repair, call (518) 216-0051 now.

Boilers and furnaces are the most common home heating systems. These terms are often used interchangeably but do not mean the same thing. A furnace heats the air and distributes it to rooms via ductwork and vents, while a boiler produces hot water or steam that’s distributed to radiator units, baseboard radiators, or radiant flooring systems. Since a boiler is an HVAC component, a heating contractor can service it, but make sure the technician is experienced with your type of equipment.

What Does a Boiler Technician Do?

A boiler does not use forced air to provide heat and does not have an air filter that must be changed regularly. It has different maintenance and service requirements than a furnace. Therefore, a local boiler technician should handle the following tasks:

• Emergency Repairs: Boilers are reliable but can develop problems and break down during the winter. Low water pressure can mean a boiler is overheating. A unit can have issues such as a burnt-out heating element or broken circulator pump. Leaks, corrosion, tank sediment, and noise can also be problematic. A technician knows how to replace corroded, worn-out, or faulty parts unique to a boiler. They can also address issues with the pilot system.
• Replace or Upgrade Your Boiler: A well-maintained boiler can last around 15 years. Like many large appliances, it can become less reliable and efficient over time. Running an old boiler can increase energy costs, but replacing the unit or performing an upgrade can save you in the long run. Your local boiler service contractor can discuss the latest high-efficiency options if it’s time to replace your boiler.
• Keep Your Warranty Valid: Most manufacturer warranties require service by a certified boiler contractor. If you neglect to service the unit, try to fix it yourself, or have an unlicensed person repair it, you might void the warranty. Working with a qualified boiler service provider ensures you’ll maintain warranty coverage. Therefore, knowing who to call can help you avoid paying out-of-pocket for repairs.

When Should I Schedule Boiler Service?

Your heater should be serviced once a year to make sure it’s functioning properly. When you schedule maintenance is important. We recommend having your boiler serviced after the end of the heating season when wear and tear can be addressed promptly. The spring or early summer is a good time for service because heating contractors are less busy and your boiler will be in optimal condition the following winter.

Annual service prevents major repairs and expensive breakdowns and improves energy efficiency. Boiler service is not a DIY task. An experienced heating contractor is needed to open the unit, clean the heat exchanger, and test the boiler’s safety devices. They will inspect the pipes, venting system, and other components as well.

Condensing boilers require a check of the condensate disposal system. Since the condensate is slightly acidic, a technician will clean and refill the condensate neutralizer and check the condensate trap. These extra service steps help protect your plumbing system and avoid emergency service calls.

Request an Appointment with a Heating Contractor

Whether you have a boiler, furnace, or heat pump, Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can provide the service you need. Our technicians are trained to provide high-quality installation, repair, and maintenance in Clifton Park, NY, and surrounding communities. We’re also available 24/7 for emergency service. To request help from a licensed heating contractor, call 518-240-9889 today.

A combination boiler (or combi boiler) incorporates space heating and hot water in one appliance. It is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to having a conventional furnace and water heater. You may be used to these being two different appliances. But combining both functions has many advantages.

How Does a Combi Boiler Work?

The appliance directs incoming water through a heat exchanger when a hot water tap is opened. It heats the water to the temperature you set on the unit. You can switch the boiler to provide space heating. When prompted to do so, a diverter valve in the combi boiler will direct heated water through a series of tubes in your home. The hot water flow then transfers this heat to the ambient air.

On the other hand, traditional boilers circulate water through radiators or hydronic heating elements to provide heat. Some units provide domestic hot water as well. However, water must be directed through a water heating appliance before it reaches a sink faucet or shower.

Why Switch to a Combi Boiler?

If you’re looking for an upgrade, some of the greatest benefits of a combi boiler include:

• Hot Water On Demand: Much like a tankless water heater, a combi system provides hot water when you need it, almost instantaneously. You don’t have to set a timer for it to switch from one mode to another. Once you turn on a fixture, the unit starts to provide a steady flow of hot water.
• The Unit Fits In a Small Space: There’s no need for a separate water tank, so combi boilers save space. Most models can fit in a utility room, kitchen cupboard, or under a stairwell. Space savings is a bonus especially if you live in a small home or apartment. You can get more use out of the square footage you have.
• It Is More Energy Efficient: Water is heated only when you need it, instead of all the time. Therefore, significantly less energy is used unless you have a large household that uses a lot more water than the average home.
• You Get Safe, Clean Water: Since the water isn’t stored in a tank, it’s less likely to be contaminated with rust, sediment, sludge, or debris. The water is completely safe for your health and your plumbing system. A combi boiler is more environmentally friendly as well, as it reduces your home’s carbon footprint and you don’t waste water waiting for it to heat up.
• Strong Water Pressure Is Maintained: Water is obtained directly from the main water supply, so is delivered at normal pressure. Meanwhile, traditional heating systems often use gravity to obtain water, which can result in reduced flow or water pooling in curved sections of pipes. This tends to reduce water pressure.
• Combi Boilers Are Easier to Install: In addition to saving on energy, you can also save on installation costs. That’s because installing a combination boiler is less complex than other heating systems. It does not require as much pipework or equipment. Installation typically takes just a few hours.
• Can Be Combined with Smart Technologies: Combination units are modern so can be connected with smart thermostats or smartphone apps. Therefore, you can control the temperature remotely. Some apps can detect appliance issues before you notice any changes, so you can schedule it to be repaired.

Grasshopper Can Meet All Your Heating Needs

At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, we install, repair, and maintain high-efficiency home heating systems in Clifton Park, NY, and surrounding areas. We provide 24/7 emergency service, free estimates, and service specials. If you have any questions about your home heating system, call 518-216-0051 today.

Heat pumps work hard all year since they provide heating and cooling. Wear and tear may have taken a toll this winter. Letting a strained heat pump continue to run without being serviced is a recipe for a breakdown. Therefore, don’t ignore signs it might need to be repaired. Call a local HVAC company that provides heat pump repairs near you if any of the following signs crop up:

1. The Air Temperature Is Not What You’d Expect

If you have the heat on yet the heat pump is blowing cold air (or not matching the temperature setting), and there’s a good chance it needs to be repaired. While a clogged filter can prevent it from heating, there may be a more serious issue. Possibilities include dirt buildup in the unit’s components, a faulty reversing valve, or low refrigerant. A skilled technician must address these issues to get your heat pump running normally again.

2. The Unit Won’t Turn On

A heat pump should turn on when it needs to. If not, a circuit breaker may have tripped or the thermostat may be set improperly. When none of these check out, there could be a faulty connection with the thermostat. More serious causes can include a damaged starter capacitor or a malfunctioning reversing valve. If the valve isn’t working, the unit may only run in hot or cold mode, but not both.

3. Your Heat Pump Won’t Stop Running

Like a traditional heating or cooling system, a heat pump should turn on and off regularly to maintain the set temperature. It may run constantly if the outside air is unusually cold. However, this can also be a sign of a miscalibrated or damaged thermostat. Another possibility is a failed compressor contactor, in which case the controller won’t receive any power.

4. The Unit Is Extremely Noisy

Heat pumps aren’t silent when they’re on. But you should be used to the sound of your system. If it starts to make loud rattling, grinding, grating, screeching, or other noises, it’s time to seek out heat pump repair near you. Worn fan belts, loose parts, and vibrating panels can cause noise. A professional can fix these and check if there’s a leak in the system, which can also create noise that’s hard to pinpoint the source of.

5. Strange Odors Come from Your Heat Pump

A musty odor coming from the vents can mean mold is growing in the unit, while a rotting smell can originate from a dead animal that previously made its way into the system. If you notice a burning odor, the wiring for your heat pump or one of its electrical components may be faulty, which can increase the risk of a fire. Call a professional if you notice any unusual odors from the unit. They’ll find the source of the problem and provide any necessary repairs.

5. Strange Odors Come from Your Heat Pump

A musty odor coming from the vents can mean mold is growing in the unit, while a rotting smell can originate from a dead animal that previously made its way into the system. If you notice a burning odor, the wiring for your heat pump or one of its electrical components may be faulty, which can increase the risk of a fire. Call a professional if you notice any unusual odors from the unit. They’ll find the source of the problem and provide any necessary repairs.

6. Airflow Isn’t What It Should Be

Weak airflow is a sign the system has a pressure imbalance, which can also be accompanied by whistling noises from some vents. There may also be drafty areas in your home. The underlying problem isn’t preventing the unit from running but won’t go away unless it is properly fixed. Only a trained professional has the skills and tools to restore your heat pump’s airflow.

7. The Coils Are Frozen

If the heat pump’s coils ice over, it’s often a sign of a clogged filter or refrigerant leak. A filter can be easily changed. You shouldn’t need a technician for that. But if there is a leak, a technician can seal it and recharge the unit to prevent additional freezing.

8. Your Electric Bill Goes Up

A sharp jump in your monthly electric bill is a sign of a malfunctioning heat pump. A mechanical or electrical issue can cause it to run less efficiently. There may be no other symptoms—yet. But the increased energy consumption will show on your electric bill, so call for help before you need more expensive repairs.

Call for Heat Pump Repairs Near You

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling provides professional heat pump repair in Clifton Park, NY, and surrounding areas. Our technicians are trained experts who can find the cause of a problem quickly and repair it permanently. If you notice any of the signs above, you can reach us 24/7 at 518-216-0051.

Space heaters are effective at warming up small spaces. You can stay warm and cozy by running one in a bedroom or living room. But when you look at the cost per running one or more units, can you save compared to operating a central HVAC system? It’s not unreasonable for some people to ponder this question. To help answer it, we’ll look at whether using space heaters instead of central heat can be a cost-saving decision.

The Cost of Running a Space Heater

According to CNET, a space heater can cost from $20 to $300 depending on its size.1 Some models are powerful enough to heat large rooms. The Environmental Protection Agency doesn’t evaluate space heaters as part of its Energy Star program. Therefore, you’ll have to trust manufacturers’ claims regarding any given product’s efficiency rating.

That being said, your local electricity rates will determine how much it costs to run a space heater per hour. An average space heater costs 20 cents per hour to operate (assuming a 1,500-watt model used in a standard room). If used for eight hours per day, the unit will cost about $50 per month to run.

Comparative Heating Costs 

The U.S. Energy Information Administration projected average heating costs in the U.S. for the 2023-2023 winter season. For central HVAC systems using the most common fuel types, the predictions were as follows:

• Natural Gas: $1,096 per household, averaging out to $6.05 per day and $0.25 per hour.
• Electricity: $1,482 per household, averaging out to $8.16 per day and $0.34 per hour.
• Propane: $2,157, averaging out to $11.90 per day and $0.50 per hour.
• Heating Oil: $2,605, averaging out to $14.39 per day and $0.60 per hour.

The estimated cost of running a space heater may look appealing. But it does not fully substitute a whole-home heating system. You might find opportunities to save by using a space heater in the bedroom at night when the rest of your home doesn’t need to be heated. However, that depends on the size of your household and where all its occupants sleep (if that involves multiple rooms, your central heater will still be needed, so a space heater will just add to your home’s energy demand).

How Space Heaters Really Compare

If you look at the costs to heat large apartments, freestanding homes, and properties in colder climates, a space heater may look cheaper to run on paper. Heating is more expensive in colder areas like the Northeast, Upper Midwest, or northern Great Plains. But to understand if using a space heater instead of central heat can help you save, think about its settings as well.

Most space heaters can be run on low, medium, or high. The lowest setting can cut energy consumption in half but the unit’s heating ability will be significantly limited. You can set the unit to high to provide additional heat and run it on low to maintain warmth. Still, most models aren’t nearly as effective as central heating systems at maintaining indoor temperatures.

What Types of Space Heaters Can I Save With the Most?

Space heaters are available in convection models that use heating coils to heat the air; a built-in fan pushes heated air into the room. Meanwhile, radiant heaters emit infrared radiation to heat an area. They’re fast and focused, but convection space heaters win when it comes to even heating. Convection models are more efficient when used over time, while radiant heaters are more efficient in small bursts.

Is a Space Heater the Most Effective Option?

If you have a gas furnace, turning on a space heater will increase energy consumption in most cases. Installing a secondary heat source usually isn’t practical or necessary. To save energy, you can:

• Add floor, attic, basement, or crawlspace insulation
  
• Turn the thermostat down a few degrees
• Seal gaps around windows and doors
• Install weatherstripping
• Close the flue when the fireplace isn’t in use.

Or, you can opt to update your home with a heat pump, which can be switched between heating and cooling and use renewable energy resources.

Using Space Heaters Instead of Central Heat May Not Be the Best Deal

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can provide you with additional advice if you’re still looking for ways to save. Our NATE-certified technicians deliver top-quality heating services in Clifton Park, NY. Specializing in heat pump and ductless HVAC installation and repair, they can help explore ways to improve energy efficiency. For more information or to schedule service, contact us online or call 518-241-4399 today.