Why Proper Furnace Sizing Is Key to Home Comfort

When it comes to home comfort, having the right-sized furnace is essential. While many homeowners believe that an oversized furnace is better, this is only sometimes the case. In most cases, an oversized furnace can cause various issues, including high energy bills, uneven temperatures, and poor indoor air quality. To avoid these problems, work with expert HVAC contractors who understand the importance of proper furnace sizing. This blog will explore why correct furnace sizing is critical, what factors determine the right furnace for your home, and how professional HVAC contractors can help ensure your furnace is sized correctly.

Why Bigger Is Not Always Better

Many homeowners assume that a bigger furnace will effectively heat their homes. But this is not necessarily true. An oversized furnace can lead to several issues, such as:

• Higher energy bills: An oversized furnace will cycle on and off more frequently than an appropriately sized furnace, leading to higher energy bills over time.
• Uneven temperatures: An oversized furnace will heat your home too quickly, causing hot and cold spots throughout your living space.
• Poor indoor air quality: An oversized furnace will not run long enough to filter the air in your home adequately, leading to a buildup of dust, allergens, and other contaminants.
• Moreover, an oversized furnace is more prone to breakdowns or may need furnace repair services, as it constantly cycles on and off. This is why working with professional HVAC contractors who understand the importance of proper furnace sizing is crucial.

Understanding The Factors That Determine Proper Furnace Sizing

Several factors can help determine the right furnace size for your home, such as:

• The size of your home: The more extensive your home, the more heating capacity you’ll need from your furnace.
• The climate in your area: If you live in a colder climate, you will need a larger furnace to heat your home effectively.
• The age and condition of your home: Older homes have less insulation and more air leaks, which affect furnace sizing.
• The number of windows and doors in your home: More windows and doors mean more heat loss, affecting furnace sizing.
• Your personal heating preferences: Some homeowners prefer warmer indoor temperatures than others, which can affect furnace sizing.
• Expert HVAC contractors consider all of these factors when determining the proper furnace size for your home, ensuring that you have an effective and energy-efficient system.

Signs Your Furnace Is The Wrong Size

If you suspect that your furnace is not the right size for your home, there are several signs to look out for, such as:

• Short cycling: If your furnace turns on and off frequently, it could be a sign that it is too large for your home.
• Uneven temperatures: If some areas of your home are too hot while others are too cold, your furnace may need to be sized correctly.
• High energy bills: If your energy bills are consistently higher than they should be, your furnace may be oversized and be using more energy than necessary.

Sometimes, the solution may be as simple as adjusting the airflow in your home or replacing your thermostat. However, in other cases, you may need to invest in a new furnace that is appropriately sized for your home.

The Benefits Of A Properly Sized Furnace

Having an appropriately sized furnace offers several benefits, such as:

• More consistent temperatures: An appropriately sized furnace will heat your home evenly without hot or cold spots.
• Lower energy bills: An appropriately sized furnace will cycle on and off less frequently, leading to lower energy bills over time.
• Improved indoor air quality: An appropriately sized furnace will run long enough to filter the air in your home adequately, leading to better indoor air quality.
• Longer lifespan for your furnace: A properly sized furnace will experience less wear and tear over time, leading to a longer lifespan and fewer repairs.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning offers complete HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance services. Our utmost priority is customer satisfaction. We are a Vancouver-based Heating & Air Conditioning company. Our expertise lies in repairing, installing, and maintaining your central and wall-mounted air conditioners, heating, hydronics, and humidifier systems. Contact us today for an appointment or to learn more about our professional services.

As the warmer months approach, many homeowners may find themselves in need of furnace replacement services after yet another long winter season.

While it may be tempting to attempt a DIY approach or hire a handyman, it’s essential to understand the importance of hiring a certified HVAC contractor for this task.

Certified HVAC contractors have the knowledge and experience required for professional furnace replacement.

In this blog, we’ll explore why hiring a professional for furnace replacement is a smart choice and what benefits it can offer.

Safety First

The safety of your home and family should be your top priority when it comes to furnace replacement. Without proper knowledge and experience, attempting a DIY approach can be dangerous.

A certified HVAC contractor will have the necessary training, tools, and equipment to replace your furnace safely, minimizing the risk of accidents or damage.

Additionally, a professional contractor will be up-to-date with the latest safety standards and regulations, ensuring the installation complies with local building codes.

By getting professional furnace replacement services from an accredited HVAC contractor, you can rest assured that your furnace replacement will be done safely and efficiently.

Technical Expertise

Furnace replacement requires technical expertise that only a professional HVAC contractor can provide.

A professional contractor has extensive knowledge of heating and cooling systems, including the latest technologies, and can help you choose the right furnace for your home based on your needs and budget.

Moreover, professional HVAC contractors are trained to diagnose and troubleshoot issues that may arise during the installation process.

They can quickly identify any problems and offer solutions that will ensure the proper functioning of your new furnace.

In addition, certified HVAC contractors stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements in heating and cooling systems.

They can recommend the most efficient and energy-saving options, ultimately saving you money on your utility bills.

They can also advise you on proper maintenance and care to maximize the lifespan of your new furnace. With their technical expertise, you can be sure that your furnace replacement will be done correctly and efficiently, saving you both time and money in the long run.

Quality Workmanship

Hiring a certified HVAC contractor for furnace replacement ensures that the job will be done right the first time.

They have the necessary experience and expertise to perform the installation to the highest standards, ensuring that your new furnace functions efficiently and reliably.

Additionally, a professional contractor will use high-quality materials and equipment to ensure the longevity of your furnace.

They’ll also provide you with a warranty on their workmanship, giving you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case of any issues.

Time And Cost Savings

While the initial cost of hiring a certified HVAC contractor may seem higher than attempting a DIY approach, it can actually save you time and money in the long run.

A professional contractor can complete the installation quickly and efficiently, saving you time and hassle.

Moreover, they’ll ensure that your furnace is installed correctly and functioning efficiently, reducing the likelihood of future repairs and maintenance costs.

By hiring a certified HVAC contractor, you’ll make a smart investment in your heating system’s long-term efficiency and reliability.

Customer Service And Support

An accredited HVAC contractor offers professional customer service and support throughout the entire furnace replacement process.

They’ll guide you through the selection process, answer any questions you may have, and provide ongoing support after the installation is complete.

Moreover, if any issues arise with your furnace, a professional contractor will provide prompt and efficient service to address them.

They’ll prioritize your safety and comfort, ensuring your furnace is performing at peak performance.

Final Word

In conclusion, hiring a certified HVAC contractor for furnace replacement is a smart choice that offers numerous benefits.

It ensures the safety of your home and family, provides technical expertise and quality workmanship, saves you time and money, and offers professional customer service and support.

Don’t risk your safety or the efficiency of your heating system; choose a certified HVAC contractor for your furnace replacement needs.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

From complete HVAC installations to minor component repairs and replacements, there isn’t a part of an HVAC that we are not well-versed in. Learn more about Pro West Heating & Air and our top-tier services.

Need emergency Furnace repair or replacements? Contact us now.

Is your furnace system not working properly and creating an uncomfortable environment in your home? If so, you likely need emergency furnace repair services.

A number of factors can cause your HVAC system, including your furnace, to start malfunctioning and not provide the necessary heat. Generally, when a furnace is not working properly, your home’s temperature will be too cold or too hot.

It is important to address such issues quickly as neglecting minor furnace issues can cause you to bear even more complicated and expensive issues later on. Let’s discuss some of the top signs that indicate you should hire emergency furnace repair services from a reliable HVAC company.

Strange Noises

Strange noises coming out of your furnace are one of the most common signs that there is something wrong with the heating system and you need to get it repaired by professionals.

By hiring emergency furnace repair services, you can ensure that professional HVAC contractors and furnace repair technicians will identify the root cause of such noises and resolve the issue accordingly.

Unusual Odours

Another reason you might need to hire emergency furnace repair services is unusual odours caused by the furnace or the overall HVAC system. It can be hard to identify the root cause of such an issue for inexperienced individuals, so it is better to rely on professional furnace repair technicians to handle such a process.

You should call the professionals when you smell something strange coming from your furnace. The longer the issue persists, the more difficult and expensive it will become to resolve it.

Moreover, you should also remember that continuous exposure to gases or fumes released by a furnace can harm your health. Therefore, getting your furnace inspected and repaired as soon as possible is essential to ensure maximum safety in your home.

Improper Airflow

Poor airflow is another common sign of a damage or malfunctioning furnace. It can result in your home becoming colder than usual. So, if you want to restore your furnace to its optimum working condition,

you’ll need emergency furnace repair services.

The issue of poor airflow can also be prevented from happening in the first place by regular furnace maintenance services. These services involve HVAC technicians thoroughly inspecting your furnace and applying suitable repair, cleaning, and maintenance solutions to maintain its performance.

Higher Energy Bills

If you have been getting unusually higher energy bills, there is a high chance that your furnace is malfunctioning and not working as it should. This type of issue can happen even when a single component of your furnace is not working or leaks gas.

It is important to control this issue as it is expensive and harms the environment due to energy inefficiency. By contacting HVAC contractors for emergency furnace repairs, you’ll be able to make sure that the system is repaired quickly, accurately, and efficiently.

Incorrect Thermostat Readings

Inaccurate thermostat readings are another indicator that your furnace is malfunctioning. Whether the reading is too high or too low, you should ensure the furnace mode is in the correct configuration. If everything seems fine to you, but the reading still needs to be corrected, you should contact professional technicians for emergency furnace repair services.

Shutdowns

If your furnace keeps shutting down repeatedly, it can be very frustrating. It does not only adversely affect the comfort of your home but can also cause a safety hazard. Therefore, if you are facing this issue, consult the experts to get the issue resolved as soon as possible.

Generally, frequent furnace shutdowns are caused by excessive dirt accumulation or motor failure. Whatever the root cause, trained technicians have the right skills, knowledge, and tools to identify and resolve the issue.

About Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning offers complete HVAC installations, repair, and maintenance services. Our services also include emergency furnace repair services to help our clients when facing a furnace or HVAC system issue.

Contact us today for an appointment or to learn more about our professional services.

We are well into the time when the dependable gas furnace in your Vancouver home will no longer need to provide its warmth until we come across the fall again. Canadian winters and summers make the HVAC system work a lot, causing a serious hike in utility bills. However, there are many ways you can control the steepness in your utility bill graph: one of them is by completely or partially shutting down the furnace in the summer.

However, certain factors need to be taken into consideration when it comes to a furnace shutdown. As professional HVAC contractors , we believe it is our duty to enlighten you regarding the matter. The following blog aims to explain furnace shutdown and why it is needed in detail.

Read Also: Warning Indications Of A Failing Furnace

What Does A Furnace Shutdown Mean?

You might think, “of course, I will shut down my furnace in the summer! All I have to do is ensure that the thermostat is set at a point where heat won’t come out.” But what you are thinking is not shutting down. It is simply turning off the furnace.

When it is recommended to shut down the furnace, it means to cut off the gas or electricity supply completely. In this manner, the furnace will not waste energy, and you can control unwanted hikes in your utility bills.

Moreover, other components that you need to look into when shutting down your furnace include checking its bearings, pilot light, motor, and heater exchange. By taking care of these aspects, you will ensure that your furnace will be ready to work again when temperatures fall again.

Why Does Your Furnace Use Energy In The Summer?

If you have a furnace that has a pilot light to ignite the system’s burners, the pilot light will waste energy in the summer. During this time of the year, you don’t want to switch your furnace on suddenly. Therefore, there is no need to keep the pilot turned on. So, shut the valve, and your pilot will go out and turn off.

This action will save you money and have a positive impact on the lifetime of your furnace as well.

A gas furnace also has some electrical connections, such as sensors. These can also needlessly draw power to the furnace in the summer. This will only add to the already high electricity bills of the summer months. It is recommended that you shut down the electrical connection of the furnace through the electrical breaker panel.

This will also prevent the furnace from turning on accidentally when someone is playing with the thermostat or during a small cold snap. Shutting down a furnace can be a tricky task. It is better to leave the job to a furnace professional. In case anything goes wrong, always contact a professional for furnace-related services.

Partial Furnace Shutdown

If you have a central air conditioning HVAC system, then you should not shut the electrical components of your furnace from the breaker. This is because in a central HVAC system, the air conditioner and furnace both use the same blower fan and electrical components. Thus, turning off the furnace’s electrical components will turn off the AC as well!

However, it is still recommended to go for partial closure of the furnace by just shutting down the gas components of the furnace. You can save on your utility bills as well as avoid any unwanted wear and tear to the furnace that can decrease its functional life.

Shutting Down Helps Increase Appliance Safety

Although your furnace was designed keeping safety in mind as its top priority, gas leaks and combustion are never completely out of the equation. Shutting down the furnace means you are shutting down one of the major gas-using appliances for the season. Hence, the chances of potential leak hazards are decreased.

About Prowest Heating & Air Conditioning

Pro-West Heating & Air Conditioning is a reliable HVAC contractor in Vancouver and surrounding areas. Our professionals strive to maintain a healthy indoor environment for you every season. Whether a central or individual furnace, air conditioning, or heating system, we can install, repair, and maintain all appliances in the best way to keep you comfortable all year round. Contact us to get the most reliable HVAC services.

Undeniably, humanity is blessed to have four different seasons. Imagine having summer throughout the year with no sign of ever seeing the green leaves change to a mixed hue of orange, yellow, and red. Contrarily, having to endure a bone-freezing cold breeze with no hope of ever seeing the surrounding trees and plants slowly bloom is also unappealing.

However, each season brings with it its own challenges. After all, variety has its own price. As fall waves a final goodbye and hands us over to the approaching winter, the concerns of remaining cosy and warm surge. Heating services become the talk of the town as every other person starts worrying over their HVAC system’s proper functionality in the approaching winter.

In this regard, it is quite natural for people to look into furnace repair or replacement services or the well-being of their heat pumps. No one wants to abruptly wake up in the middle of the night in shivers with clattering teeth.

The Canadian winter season can be quite harsh when it wants to be. Long-lasting snowstorms or frequent cold fronts are unbearable if one has a malfunctioning furnace.

For this reason, today’s blog aims to enlighten our readers regarding the signs that might suggest a furnace failure. If you are able to detect the problem in its early stages, you might be able to avoid a costlier crisis later.

Signs Indicating A Furnace Failure

Even though we provide emergency furnace repair and replacement services in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, we prefer to save our clients the extra costs by helping them catch the issue in its initial stages. After all, a stitch in time saves nine.

Look out for the following signals and take the appropriate measures before the problem gets out of hand:

1. End Of Lifespan

Nothing is immortal and mechanical items are no exception to this principle.

Usually, a furnace has a service life of about fifteen to twenty years. If your furnace has crossed this age and is providing poor heating, replacement is inevitable. In such a situation, it is better to get a new furnace rather than endure frequent costly repairs.

2. Abnormally High Bills

If this year’s heating bills greatly surpass that of the previous year, it might suggest you need to pay attention to your furnace. A furnace loses its efficiency over long usage. Hence, they suck up more fuel but become less productive. In such a situation, simply get your furnace refurbished.

3. Frequent Repairs

If your furnace’s lifespan is not over but the cost of repairs is steadily increasing, then there is something terribly wrong with your furnace. Normally, it means the furnace has been damaged beyond repair and needs replacement. However, it would be wise to first consult a reputable HVAC contractor for advice regarding the matter.

4. Odd Sounds And Smells

One of the biggest signs of any mechanical device going bad is strange sounds and smells. The same goes with furnaces. If you often hear weird sounds or if the family complains of unpleasant smells, it might be time to have an expert look into your furnace’s health. These are often the most initial signs of an upcoming bigger problem.

5. Faltering Temperature Control

When a furnace fails to provide the same level of warmth it provided a few years ago, it might indicate an issue with the thermostat. In such a case, you don’t need to replace the whole furnace but just have to upgrade your thermostat. If the need to replace your thermostat arises, we suggest that you value quality over price.

A good thermostat can save you from frequent repairs and replacements, and can even increase the life of your furnace.

6. Emission Of Soot Or Water Collecting Around The Furnace

A gas or electric furnace should not be releasing soot. If it does, then it is either malfunctioning or was improperly installed. Regardless of the root cause, such a sign should not be ignored. If left unattended, the problem may lead to the furnace being damaged beyond repair.

On the other hand, water collecting around the furnace may not necessarily signal a faulty furnace. Instead, it may be the after-effect of poor plumbing. Nevertheless, have a professional HVAC contractor examine the furnace to ensure that the appropriate steps are taken.

About Pro West Heating

When precision meets perfection, the results are worth remembering. Pro West Heating hopes to attain exactly that by providing high-quality HVAC services as per every client’s unique needs. Contact us for more information.

In Coquitlam, heating is a seasonal necessity, and a damaged furnace can cause quite a few problems in the winter months. Maintenance is just as important to ensure the lifespan of the system is sustained. Below are 5 signs that you should get your furnace repaired by the professionals at Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning before it becomes a necessity.

1. Poor Heating

   Is your heater struggling to keep up with your thermostat, even on mildly cold days? Insufficient heating and cold spots in the home are all signs that your furnace may need maintenance. A dirty system or clogged piping and ductwork can prevent the heat from reaching the desired temperature, causing it to run more often, raising utility bills and wasting gas without any of the comfort of a system that is running sufficiently. The first time you turn on your system for the year, it may take a while for the system to get up to the temperature you need, but if the problem is consistent or the heating begins to struggle despite having it on for a few weeks, it’s time for furnace repair Coquitlam.

2. Short-Cycling

   This is easy to recognize once you know what to look for. Short-cycling happens when the furnace turns off and on at faster than normal intervals. The furnace will often struggle and fail to reach the desired temperature but will keep turning on to attempt to match the thermostat. Not only is this the symptom of a deeper problem with your furnace, requiring repair, but it is a waste of gas and can wear out various system components quickly if left unresolved.Short-cycling should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent it from damaging the lifespan of your furnace and causing further damage to the system.

1. Yellow Pilot Light

   Is your pilot light orange, yellow, or green? It’s time to get it checked out by a professional.The pilot light for your furnace should always be blue, and the presence of another color could be a sign of other substances, like built-up rust, that interfere with the furnace’s operation. This could be a safety hazard if left unresolved.If you notice your pilot light is a different color other than blue, you should turn the heating off and call the technicians at Pro West immediately to ensure the safety of the heating system.

2. Unusual Noises

   Loud banging noises, screeching, or buzzing sounds are all cause for concern, especially if they are out of the ordinary for your system. If you notice these noises, it’s not something to brush off.These sounds are indicative of problems with the furnace and can alert you to potential hazards, like faulty electrical connections, a worn-out fan belt, or a problem with the burners.If you notice these sounds, turn off your heater immediately and call the experts at Pro West. These issues should be addressed and repaired as soon as possible before running the heat again.

3. High Utility Bills

   Every year, it seems like utility bills get higher and higher, but we’re not talking about the utility company’s rate. Even if you’ve been conscious about your energy consumption, your heating may be telling you a different story.If you notice the usage on your bill is going up, leading to expensive bills, chances are that the furnace requires maintenance or repair as it is unable to run efficiently.Beyond wasting gas and costing you more money for less heat, a heating system that has not been maintained properly will need to be replaced sooner as individual parts wear out.

Can Old Furnaces Be Repaired?

Yes, old furnaces can generally be repaired, but it might not be the best choice as the system will be worn and parts will become more difficult to come by with every year. Generally, repairs are most effective in furnaces that are under 10-15 years old, revitalizing the machinery and maintaining its lifespan.

Should I Replace My 25-Year-Old Furnace?

If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be best to replace the system depending on how efficiently it is running. 25-year-old furnaces are generally difficult to repair as parts are difficult to come by, and the machine will not be as efficient in providing heat to the home. As parts inside the furnace wear out, they become more susceptible to breaking or malfunctioning, which can become potentially hazardous problems in routine usage. Repairs in furnaces this old typically take more time and money to maintain than they do to replace the system entirely. We typically recommend replacing the furnace after 15-20 years to invest in your home’s heating efficiency and safety.

How Much Does It Cost to Remove and Replace a Furnace?

For a full furnace removal and installation, it can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $11,000 depending on the type of furnace and the current boiler room set up. (1) “it pays to replace your HVAC system as soon as it stops functioning” Forbes.com This cost includes the cost of the new furnace, average labor, any necessary ductwork or piping, disposal of the old furnace, and installation of the new furnace. To get a full quote for your furnace removal and replacement, give our heating experts a call at Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning.

Can I Install a Furnace Myself?

No, we do recommend installing a furnace without the proper training and understanding of HVAC systems. Installing a furnace yourself is difficult, dangerous, and the slightest oversight can lead to significant safety hazards. Any furnace installation or furnace repair in Coquitlam should be done by a licensed and insured contractor.

Furnace Repair Coquitlam

We are the best providers of furnace repair Coquitlam has seen, with fast, fair and reliable heating & air conditioning services. Our team strives to provide the highest quality service blended with the best results. Whether you need furnace repair, maintenance, or installation, our team can help you take care of it, working with you on a timeline that suits your schedule. Give us a call to get a quote or request a service date today. References: Forbes, How Much Does a New HVAC System Cost?, https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/new-hvac-system-cost/

Winter is often a time of the year when everyone is looking forward to enjoying the holidays with their family and friends. You dream about sipping a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate while playing games or watching TV in your warm, toasty living room. But the dream is short-lived if the temperature indoors isn’t kept warm due to a malfunctioning furnace.

Furnaces play a very important role in keeping the inside of your home warm and liveable. Cold weather causes the most strain to your heating system. So, it’s important to ensure that the system is always in good working condition, especially before each winter. However, there are times when you get so caught up in your daily life that you might overlook essential furnace repair or maintenance work.

Read on to learn about some of the signs that may indicate that your furnace needs immediate professional care.

Dirty Air Ducts And Filters

The most obvious sign that your furnace requires immediate care and maintenance is that it has dirty air ducts and filters. Air filters play an essential role in protecting the furnace’s delicate parts from dirt, dust, and grime. For instance, the blower fan of your home’s furnace might shut down completely if its air filters are clogged. This fan is responsible for blowing warm air into your home, and it is protected from the dirty air – pulled in from the return duct – by air filters.

You must pay close attention to your furnace for any visible signs of damage. Perform a self-inspection to ensure that its air filters and air ducts are in good condition to avoid it from breaking down. If you notice signs of dirt on the filters of your furnace, make sure to schedule a furnace maintenance appointment with a professional. Also, it is advised that you get a replacement of your 1-2 inch air filters after every three months to extend your furnace’s life.

Uneven Indoor Heating

Your furnace is supposed to help keep you warm by heating up the inside of your home. However, if you feel that some areas of your home are not warm enough or are on the cooler side, then you might have an issue at hand. Uneven heating is an indicator that your furnace needs some repairs. Uneven heating can either be due to dirty air ducts or the air escaping from your home through a leak in a wall or door.

To solve this problem, you must ensure that the furnaces’ filters and vents are clean and unclogged. Ensure that your windows and doors are properly shut while the heating system is running for effective results. In addition to this, use door snakes and weather strips to prevent heat from escaping out.

However, if doing these things does not improve the warmth of your home, then it is time to contact professionals from a furnace repair company to fix the problem.

A Spike In Your Utility Bills

Your heating system is an essential feature of your home and plays a vital part in keeping everyone comfortable during the cold weather. It does this by ensuring that the indoor environment remains as warm as you want it to. However, any issue with your furnace can cause it to perform poorly. For instance, a faulty furnace with inefficient performance can significantly hike your energy bills.

A sudden spike in your energy bills in the middle of winter is an obvious indicator that there are some issues with your furnace. Due to wear and tear over time the system might be operating in less than optimal working condition. If your electricity bill is more than it was last year, then it is best to get your furnace checked by a professional.

About Us

At Pro West, we offer expert services in repairing, installation, and maintenance of air conditioning, heating, hydronic, and humidifier systems to our residential and commercial customers in Vancouver and the lower mainland region. Contact us today for more information about our services.