What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is an electronically powered device that both heats and cools your home. During winter months, a heat pump pulls heat out of the air and pumps it into your home. During the summer months, it operates in reverse, pulling heat out of your home and blowing in the conditioned air. Heat pumps are a very efficient means of heating your home, but they are the most effective at temperatures over 40 degrees. With the sometimes harsh winters we experience in Northeastern Pennsylvania, we recommend installing an auxiliary heat source to complement your heat pump for when temperatures drop below 40 degrees.
What is a geothermal heat pump?
A geothermal heat pump is a heating system that draws its heat from the earth. In Northeastern Pennsylvania, the earth stays a relatively warm 50-55 degrees year-round. A geothermal heat pump system will draw this heat out of the ground to reduce the heating demand required from an auxiliary heat source. Heat pumps can save you up to 50 percent on your home’s heating and cooling bills.
How does a furnace work?
There are several types of furnaces (oil, gas and electric), but the basic operation of all types is virtually the same. A furnace uses a fuel source to heat coils that air is then blown across and into your home.
What is the best type of furnace?
This answer largely depends on the climate one lives in. Electric furnaces are less efficient than gas and oil furnaces, but in areas with low electricity prices, they can be cheaper to operate. In Pennsylvania, a gas furnace is going to be the most efficient and cost-effective furnace available.
Do I need an auxiliary heating system?
If your home uses a heat pump, an auxiliary heat source may be necessary. Heat pumps, while very efficient, work by pulling heat out of the air and blowing it into your home. Below 40 degrees, there is simply too little heat in the air for your heat pump to work as effectively as an auxiliary heating source. Although it will still work, it will have to work harder and longer to keep your home warm, costing you more than an alternative heat source.
How do you determine the size of my heating system?
We will measure your home and calculate the actual heating load on your home. Our calculation is based on window size, orientation, walls, ceiling, floors, appliances, insulation level and more. Additionally, we will take into account your lifestyle habits that may impact your home’s heating needs. This will determine the proper size of equipment that is needed.
Do you offer financing for new heating systems?
We offer several financing options to help make your heating system purchase more affordable. Our financing promotions often change, so contact us today to learn more about our current financing options.
How do I best maintain my furnace?
The best way to maintain your furnace is with annual preventative maintenance checks. We recommend having an annual maintenance check-up for your furnace every fall before winter arrives to ensure that your furnace is working properly before its use is necessary.
When should I replace my furnace?
Furnaces, like any hardware, wears out over time. The amount of use and the level of maintenance will all factor into how long your furnace lasts. If you notice that your furnace is not heating as well as it once did or that you are having more frequent maintenance issues, it may be time for heating system replacement.
