How Homeowners Can Start 2023 Right
Lifelong residents of Boulder, Colorado, know one thing: January is one of the coldest months of the year. Temperatures can easily dip below 20 degrees, making a functioning heating system vital. Yet, all too many homeowners try to “suck it up” when it comes to sticking by a broken or ineffective heater.
Homeowners don’t have to pile on the layers during the wintertime anymore. Instead, they should consider the benefit of getting a new heater. Here, one can learn about when to get a new heater and what installation could mean for them.
When Should Homeowners Consider Heater Replacement?
EnergyStar notes that homeowners should consider getting a new heater if:
- Their system is more than 15 years old. Once a heater reaches the 15-year mark, problems are inevitable. At a certain point, it could be more cost-effective to get a new heater rather than constantly fixing an older unit.
- There’s uneven heating from room to room. It’s true––when the heater’s on, some rooms are just a bit warmer than others. However, if there are significant temperature changes throughout the house, this could point to a failing heater.
- There’s excessive dust. Many homes in Boulder have central heating and cooling systems. These systems do a good job of filtering out dust, dander, and other particles from the air. If dust starts building up on surfaces, however, this could mean that the air ducts need cleaning. It could also mean that the heater isn’t efficiently doing its job.
What Heater Best Suits Homes in Boulder, Colorado?
The best heater for one’s home depends on the home’s size, layout, and occupancy. Homeowners have these options when looking to stay warm in the winter:
- Heat pumps. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that heat pumps are one of the most cost-effective heating options on today’s market. That’s because they don’t generate heat. Instead, they draw heat from other sources and pump it into the home.
- Furnaces. A furnace relies on energy to generate heat. They also work faster than other heat sources, heating a home in minutes.
- Boilers. Boilers are exactly what the name implies; they boil water and generate heat through steam.
A professional can assess one’s home and explain what heat system could benefit their situation. They can also explain the cons of each option. For instance, heat pumps generally don’t do well in frigid climates. Boilers can take a while to kick on.
How Can a Professional Maintain a Heating System?
When a professional examines a home’s heating system, they’ll employ several methods to keep the system running for as long as possible. They can:
- Patch any holes in the air ducts
- Address any mold around the heating system
- Check for any leaks
- Make sure the thermostat is communicating properly
- Remove any rust or corrosion
- Suggest a new heater installation, if necessary
- Look at the electrical terminals for any corrosion
DIY measures only take a homeowner so far. To ensure their heaters work as expected when temperatures drip, they should consult with a professional at their earliest convenience.