Is Fall the Best Time to Schedule Heater Replacement?

Is Fall the Best Time to Schedule a Heating System Replacement?

If you need your heating system replaced, does it matter when you do it? Ideally, you will replace your heater before it breaks down during a cold spell. But is there anything else about the timing that makes fall the best time for a heating system replacement?

Why Timing  Matters for Heater Replacement

Think about this: you do not want to replace your heater during the winter. When it’s cold and your heater suddenly stops working, you may find yourself cold for a long time, as the HVAC companies will likely be busy with other such emergencies. Even in Florida, where you are highly unlikely to be blindsided by a blizzard, it’s very inconvenient to lose heat just when it’s getting really chilly. In the summer, you won’t be using your heater, but the HVAC companies will still be busy, helping people whose air conditioners aren’t working properly. It’s a good practice to have your HVAC system inspected twice a year, in spring and in fall, so that routine maintenance can be handled and any issues can be caught and addressed early, before they cause major problems. Logically, if you have your heater inspected in spring and it’s apparent that it needs to be replaced before winter, fall would be the most convenient time to schedule the replacement. This way, you have a few months to make plans for the replacement. On the other hand, if you wait to have the routine maintenance conducted until fall, you will need to quickly schedule the replacement, so that you can squeeze it in before the winter weather hits.

Signs You Need Heater or Heat Pump Replacement Before Winter

Heating systems last a long time, and sometimes people miss the signs that show they are on their way out. Here are some signs to notice, so that you can get your heating system replaced before it malfunctions, causing you inconvenience and discomfort. Getting it handled in the fall is ideal, because then it’s ready when you need it.

• If it didn’t properly heat your home last winter, have your heating system replaced before the next winter begins. This is common sense; a heater that isn’t properly heater is not worth keeping.
• A heater that is nearing its expiration date should probably be replaced. With the right maintenance, heaters can last for up to 20 years, which is a nice, long time. If it has passed the 20 year mark, replace your heater. Not only is it probably on its last legs, but you will find that a newer model is much more effective and energy efficient.
• If it’s showing signs of wear, replace your heating system. Weird sounds, signs of cracks, rust, or corrosion, or soot on the outside of the unit are all signs that a dangerous breakdown may happen in the near future.
• High energy bills may indicate that you need a new heating unit. Replacing your system is a better use of your money than continuing to pay staggering utility bills. Additionally, if you find that you are spending excessively on repair bills to keep your heater limping along, it’s time to replace it.

Off Season HVAC Replacement Tips

When you are looking into replacing your HVAC, pay attention to seasonal discounts and perks. In the off seasons of spring and autumn, you will often find that HVAC installers have more flexibility in terms of price and scheduling. It is estimated, in fact, that replacing your HVAC when it’s neither winter nor summer can save $2,000 to $4,000. Talk to your installer, and ask what is available. It’s also worth noting that manufacturers sometimes offer rebates and seasonal discounts during the fall, which makes this an extremely cost-effective time to replace your heating system. If you are torn between manufacturers, this may be the deciding factor.

Fall Heater Installation Benefits When You Hire a Professional

Even if you are a die-hard do-it-yourself homeowner, there are some things that are better left to the experts. HVAC professionals have the equipment and knowledge to make replacing a heating system go smoothly, and they can do it safely and efficiently. In the fall, when their schedules are more flexible than in the high season, they can take their time on your project without feeling pressured. Because heating systems involve dangerous components, hiring a professional keeps your home safe and gives you peace of mind.

Pre-Winter Furnace Upgrade Guide

What if you are not ready to replace your heating system this year? If you decide to wait another year, make sure to take the following steps before winter arrives.

• Replace the filter.
• Check the thermostat to make sure it’s working properly.
• Make sure none of the vents or registers are blocked or dirty.
• Turn on the system to make sure the ignition works.
• Have a professional inspection, along with the necessary maintenance, to be sure small problems are handled, and you won’t face massive repairs in winter.

FAQs

• What’s the Top Reason People Replace Heaters?
  Most people replace their heating systems when the cost of repairing it begins to outpace the cost of replacing it.
• How Does a Heat Pump Differ from a Heater?
  While a traditional heater generates heat, using electricity or fuel, a heat pump transfers heat into the home.
• Is There a Rule of Thumb to Help Me Decide Whether My Heater is Worth Repairing?
  Some people use the $5,000 rule. Simply take the amount the repair would cost, multiply it by the age of the unit, and if the total is more than $5,000, it’s time to replace the heater.

Contact Best Value AC and Heating for a Pre-Winter Furnace Upgrade

When you are looking for reputable and experienced HVAC professionals in Volusia or Flagler County, our local, veteran-owned, family-run business is here for you. Best Value A/C and Heating, LLC offers climate control service and repairs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we’re committed to providing our customers with excellent service. We care about value, integrity, and preserving the comfort of your home, so you can count on us to handle your climate control problems thoroughly and at competitive prices. Contact us today for more information about all we have to offer, or to schedule an inspection, maintenance, or service through our website.