Author: Cassie Pound

Let Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing take care of your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation needs in Tulsa. Call today for more details!

A common problem for many homes in the winter is dry indoor air. Raising the furnace humidifier is a great way to add more moisture to your house as warm air circulates through it. Still, you might ask yourself, “What should a furnace humidifier be set at in winter?”

At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, our skilled technicians are well-versed in all things relating to heating and cooling in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Below, we share the correct winter setting for your furnace humidifier and why this setting is necessary.

What You Should Know About Relative Humidity

It helps to know about relative humidity to fully understand why your home needs to maintain a specific humidity level, even in the winter when the air is usually dry. Relative humidity refers to how much water vapor a house can hold before condensation forms. For example, if your home has a 40-percent relative humidity level, the air only holds 40 percent of the moisture it could contain. 

Temperature fluctuations influence relative humidity. Chilled air has less humidity than warm air, so you can expect your home’s humidity level to decrease as temperatures drop outside. 

Why Too Much Humidity Is Bad for Your House

House humidifiers add moisture to the air indoors. Even if dry air is too uncomfortable for you, indoor air with too much water vapor isn’t good.

If the air inside your house contains too much moisture while the temperatures outside are at or below freezing, the vapor can turn into condensation around your walls and windows. Depending on the temperatures inside and outside your house, the condensation can remain a liquid or turn into ice. Either way, the risk of water damage and mold growth is substantially higher in a home with too much humidity than in a drier residence. 

On the other hand, you don’t want to leave your house with dry air all winter. Dry indoor air can lead to:

• Itchy eyes
• Throat irritation
• Dry skin
• Sinus irritation
• Increased risk of respiratory infections

Finding the balance between dry and moist air will make your home more comfortable.

The Ideal Humidity for Your House During the Winter

The best thing to do to make your home comfortable without risking mold and water damage due to high humidity levels is to adjust your furnace humidifier. However, if you’re wondering, “What should a furnace humidifier be set at in winter?” you’re not alone.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, optimal indoor humidity levels are between 30 and 60 percent. You can achieve this humidity level by taking note of the temperature outside and making the appropriate adjustments. 

If the temperature outside is between 20 and 40 degrees, keep your home’s humidity level around 40 percent. If temperatures drop to between ten and 20 degrees, adjust the furnace humidifier for a 25-percent to 30-percent indoor humidity level. 

In general terms, you should match your furnace humidifier’s settings to the temperature outside. If the temperatures drop, so should your humidity setting.

You can also set your furnace humidifier between 30 and 50 percent and adjust the humidity once you notice condensation building up inside your windows. Indoor condensation around windows and sills is a clear indicator that the house’s humidity levels are off in relation to the temperature outside.

Reasons To Maintain Proper Humidity Levels During Winter

You might not give much thought to your home’s humidity level, but you should. Regulating humidity as you regulate indoor temperatures can benefit you in more ways than one.

Money Savings

Most of the energy your home consumes in the winter likely comes from the furnace. The extra energy consumption translates to higher monthly utility bills. However, you can maintain the same level of warmth and comfort you desire and save money on energy by adjusting the furnace humidifier. 

When your home reaches the right humidity level in the winter, the air will automatically feel warmer. That means you can turn the thermostat down by a couple of degrees and raise the humidifier without negatively impacting your house’s warmth and coziness. Any time you drop the temperature on the thermostat in the winter, you’ll consume less energy and increase your monthly savings, even if it’s only a degree or two.

Health Improvement

The biggest advantage of knowing what to set your furnace humidifier at is a healthy environment. Many types of viruses and bacteria spread more easily in low-humidity conditions. Raising your indoor humidity levels appropriately according to the temperature outside can make it harder to transmit illnesses around your household.

For example, a humidity level above 40 percent gives the flu virus a 14-percent survival rate. In comparison, a 23-percent humidity level leaves about 75 percent of the virus particles alive, increasing the risk of an infection. 

Mold is another health concern when it comes to humidity. If your indoor humidity levels are too high in relation to the temperatures outdoors, the water vapor can create mold on walls, floors, ceilings, and other surfaces. Breathing in mold spores can trigger allergy-like symptoms or cause respiratory illnesses. 

Property Protection

Water around porous materials can be problematic, but dry air can also be damaging. Wood floors and furniture can warp due to excess moisture or dry air. However, you can protect your home and belongings by maintaining the appropriate humidity level in your house throughout the winter. 

Stay Warm and Cozy This Winter With Help From Our HVAC Professionals

If you still need help understanding “What should a furnace humidifier be set at in winter,” Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help. Our locally owned and operated business offers comprehensive HVAC services in Tulsa, Oklahoma, from heating maintenance to air conditioning repair. We have years of experience and value our customers, so we respond quickly to service requests.

Call (918) 393-4204 to request an appointment with us. 

If you need high-quality heating, cooling, and plumbing services in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and its surrounds, we’re here for you!

Your furnace is an important part of your home, keeping your family warm and cozy, but what happens when it stops working? One common issue with heating units is inconsistent cycling, where it randomly stops or continues running without ever switching off. If you’re wondering why your furnace won’t stop running like this and what to do about it, you’re in the right place.

As a leading heating contractor in Tulsa, OK, Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing shares possible reasons your furnace is constantly running and how to proceed.

1 The Thermostat Isn’t Set Correctly

The first step in addressing a furnace that keeps cycling is addressing the cause. While there are several factors that cause a furnace to cycle over and over again, the most common cause of an overactive furnace is a thermostat setting that’s gone wrong.

When you notice your heating unit running inconsistently, the first thing you’ll want to do is check the thermostat. Sometimes, the simplest answer is the right one, and someone in the house may well have set the thermostat too high without realizing it. Of course, this is the easiest possible fix, as all you do is return the thermostat to the desired temperature.

Another issue is the Auto vs. On setting that controls your furnace blower motor. Your thermostat should always be set to Auto so that the furnace blower only turns on when the furnace itself does. When your furnace is set to On, the blower won’t stop running.

2 The Heating Unit’s Filters Are Dirty

When was the last time your HVAC filters got a thorough cleaning? Clearing these filters of gunk and dirt is essential for maintaining heater function, as air cannot flow freely through dirty or clogged filters. If the filter restricts the unit’s airflow, the furnace will also continue running because it won’t ever reach the right temperature. 

Is your heating unit running all of the time? Check your furnace’s filters to rule out clogs. Then, to clean your heating filters and restore adequate airflow, follow these three easy steps:

1. Open the compartment cover and remove the old, clogged filter from the heating unit.
2. Insert a new, clean filter into the unit according to the arrows on the frame.
3. Close the filter access panel on your unit and throw away the old filter.

Some units have reusable heating filters that you will clean instead of throwing away. If your unit has one of these, remove the filter from the furnace and use a vacuum to gently suction the debris from the filter. Whether it’s reusable or disposable, you should clean or replace your furnace’s filters at least once a month to ensure it runs correctly.

3 The Thermostat Batteries Need Changing

If your furnace won’t stop running after clearing the filter, your thermostat may still be the cause. Even with the correct settings, your thermostat can’t control the HVAC unit properly if its batteries are dying or there’s some problem with the signal between the two. 

Does your home have a programmable thermostat that uses batteries? If you’re finding the furnace is constantly cycling, try putting new batteries into the thermostat and see if that resolves the issue.

In other cases, the thermostat could be malfunctioning, broken, or outdated. Thermostats play a very important role in our home climate control systems, but they are simple pieces of equipment. It’s always possible that the thermostat can no longer control your HVAC systems, especially if it’s past its time for replacement.

4 There’s a Short in the Control Board Wiring

The warmth of your heating unit is more than welcome when temperatures drop very low, but no one wants their furnace to run non-stop. Sometimes, the cause of your furnace or heating unit problem is an electrical issue. For example, there might be a fused contact or a short in the unit’s control board.

When your furnace won’t stop running, it presents several concerns that may include the following:

Compromised Comfort

The most obvious reason you don’t want your furnace running all of the time is the toll it takes on your home comfort. A furnace that is running all the time makes any home too hot.

High Cost

An HVAC unit that overworks itself drives up utility bills, often drastically. When your furnace won’t stop running, you’ll see a spike in the following month’s costs.

Excess Energy Use

Being more sustainable and eco-friendly isn’t possible with a heating unit that runs constantly. It uses far more energy.

Fire Hazards

The most serious concern from a furnace that runs all day is a potential fire. Clogged filters and electrical issues put the safety of your family and pets in jeopardy as they overheat your machine. Since only an HVAC professional can diagnose these types of concerns, you shouldn’t wait to call local experts like Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing right away if you want peace of mind.

5 Your System Has Air Duct Leakage

When your furnace is on, hot air flows through your home’s elaborate ductwork. Older homes or outdated heating units are prone to leaky air ducts, which stop air from flowing to the various spaces throughout your home. The result is a furnace that continues running at all times because it’s trying to warm your home to no avail.

If you have an older home or an old furnace, ductwork leaks may not be the only problem with your cooling and heating system. Thankfully, a team like Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing can help you address these concerns promptly and reach into the ductwork as needed. Air ducts lie within the walls and ceilings of your house, so trained and equipped technicians will carefully examine these spaces to solve your heating problem as quickly as possible.

6 There’s a Larger Problem That Needs Repair or Replacement

What should you do when your furnace won’t stop running? If you notice this issue has continued after you’ve checked your thermostat settings and looked at the filters to make sure they are clean, you may need to acknowledge the likelihood of a bigger issue. 

The experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing recommend trying the following before you call a professional for urgent assistance:

• Turn your furnace off by going to the breaker box and turning off your heating unit. 
• You do this by locating the “Furnace” or “Heater” label and shutting down the power. 
• Next, you’ll want to turn off the furnace itself. The switch looks similar to a light switch and usually flips down to turn off the system. 
• Finally, seek professional assistance to diagnose and treat the underlying problem before you use your unit again.

You might be lucky enough to have one leaky air duct or a minor electrical issue, but you’ll need to be sure before you keep running your unit.

When Your Furnace Won’t Stop Running, You Need Quality Furnace Repair Right Away!

Is your furnace running all day and night? Even with winter’s cold air, your heating unit is not meant to run constantly. Furnaces that won’t stop cycling drive up utility costs and present a safety hazard for your home. If there are signs you have a broken furnace, be sure to contact professionals near you like Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing. 

When your furnace won’t stop running, you need a competent team of HVAC technicians to visit your home and check your heating system from top to bottom. Why not schedule an appointment with Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at 918-393-4204 today? 

Is your furnace suffering power issues or inconsistent cycling? Call top-rated HVAC professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for an inspection and maintenance.

When temperatures dip in the winter, you’ll want your furnace functioning on high whenever you’re home. But what about times you’re not home? Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off?

In this blog, we’ll discuss how powering your furnace off and on can either help or hurt your home. While many homeowners think that turning off home systems saves money, it depends on the circumstances. Read on to learn more about how keeping your furnace powered on can improve home comfort and save money.

Call the top-rated heating contractor in Tulsa, OK, when you need electric or gas furnace repair, maintenance, or installation. Our professionals come equipped with the best tools and techniques in the industry to keep your heater optimally functional during the coldest months of the year. Call today to schedule service.

How Furnaces Normally Cycle

It’s actually normal for your furnace to turn on and off throughout the day. Your furnace heats the air in your home and distributes it through ductwork in routine cycles.

When the temperature in your home reaches your desired level, your furnace stops for a period. If your interior temperatures decline again, your furnace will power back on.

Although this is the normal operation cycle for most furnaces, it doesn’t mean that your furnace is turning off and on. Homeowners wondering, “Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off?” are usually referring to fully flipping the power switch. Doing so disrupts the normal furnace cycling and prohibits warm air from flowing.

Times You Might Want to Shut Off Your Furnace

It’s wise to try and save money on your home comfort systems. That’s why people frequently ask our HVAC professionals when it might be wise to power down their furnace. Some common situations where homeowners may want to shut down their furnace include:

• Leaving home daily for school or work
• Seasonal and vacation property needs
• Going on vacation for multiple days
• During signs of furnace disrepair or a gas leak
• Other maintenance or work needs to happen at home

These common situations prompt homeowners to try saving money by shutting down their furnace. However, not every one of these situations mandates a complete furnace power down.

Does Shutting Down a Furnace Save Money

One of the top questions we get about furnace operations is whether turning it off saves money. Ultimately, there are very few situations where shutting off your system will lead to lower utility bills or savings. That’s because adversities and potential damage usually arise when you power off your furnace.

During winter, it’s especially risky to keep your furnace off for any period. Later in this blog, we’ll discuss some of the risks of powering off your furnace during the winter and otherwise.

Consider installing an energy-efficient furnace for savings on your monthly bills.

Risks When Turning Off Your Furnace

While asking, “Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off” the potential risks provide a clear answer. The risks of turning off your furnace decrease significantly during the winter. We’ll focus on those consequences since it’s unlikely that you’ll be operating a furnace during the summer.

The main risks of turning off your furnace include:

• Frozen or burst pipes
• Structural damage to your home from contraction and expansion
• Health adversities from decreasing indoor temperatures
• Overworking your furnace when it powers back

Due to these risks, it’s usually best to keep your furnace on.

Alternative Ways of Saving Money on Furnace Operation

Besides turning off your system, there are other ways to reduce the financial impact of your furnace operations. 

You can save money by heating your home at a lower temperature of around 60ºF. At this point, your furnace won’t have to cycle frequently to reach the thermostat setting. Because your furnace still keeps your home above freezing temperatures, though, this setting stops the furnace from overworking when you turn up the heat.

Another strategy is installing heated floors. Since heat rises, heated floors can keep your entire home warm and improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, you won’t have to set your furnace so high to avoid cold feet in the morning. 

Finally, getting a programmable thermostat can lead to significant savings. These systems allow homeowners to set cycling schedules based on their routines and heating needs. As a result, you won’t have to remember to turn down the heat when you leave home for work each morning.

Smartphone and app-based control offers another positive of programmable thermostats. You can use your smart device to optimize the furnace temperature and minimize spending. 

When to Turn Off Your Furnace

While turning off your furnace usually won’t yield positive results, there are certain situations where you could shut down your system. Some of the best times to power your furnace down completely include:

• Through the summer
• While away from any vacation property (so long as you winterized the property beforehand)
• With any signs of dangerous operation or significant disrepair, including gassy scents, strange noises, overheating, electronic ignition issues, and more

It’s essential to turn your furnace off in any emergency situation. If you notice signs of disrepair or concerning issues during operation, turn the furnace off and call professionals immediately. The chemical and mechanical components can pose dangers to your family if they experience severe malfunction.

Problems When Repowering a Furnace

Allowing your furnace to operate while you’re away helps avoid issues that can arise during repowering. When you turn your furnace on again, it could allow excess condensation into your flue and ductwork. Increased condensation can lead to rust, corrosion, and mold formation in your HVAC system.

If you had your furnace off during colder winter months, you might have developed issues with ice dams and frozen pipes without realizing it. After repowering your furnace, these problems could prohibit air from flowing through any part of your HVAC system. Thus, you won’t even be able to obtain the warmth you desperately need.

Finally, turning your furnace on after a period away could overwork your system. Because your furnace will have to work harder to compensate for the low temperature in your home, it could cause issues with system operation and energy efficiency. 

Other Potential Furnace Problems

Turning your furnace off and on is not the only risk to optimal system operation. Fortunately, professionals can easily resolve many of the other common furnace problems with minor repairs and routine maintenance.

Other common furnace problems include:

• Overloading your system
• Dirty air filters
• Heat exchanger malfunctioning
• Damaged, leaky, or poorly installed ductwork
• Thermostat setting and programming issues
• Improperly sized unit for your home

Enlist Top-Rated HVAC Professionals for Furnace Maintenance from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Learning about how a gas vs. electric furnace could impact your home comfort can help you decide on the best system for your home. If you’re not sure how to evaluate your furnace options, contact professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. 

As the top-rated HVAC company in Tulsa, OK, we offer customers high-quality workmanship, efficient turnarounds, and excellent customer service. With financing options suitable for every family, we help everyone keep their home comfortable with optimally functioning HVAC systems.

So, is it bad to turn your furnace on and off? For more information about furnace power and cycling issues, call (918) 262-5245 and request top-rated furnace maintenance from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

Do you want to get the most out of your HVAC system? Let Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing service your heating and cooling system for year-round comfort. Call today to request service! 

When colder temperatures settle in, your home’s heating system needs to function at its best to keep you comfortable. If you use a boiler as your primary source of heat, you’ll enjoy years of use before the system starts to wear. But exactly how long do boilers last?

This informative guide explains everything you need to know about your boiler, including how long it will last on average, what you can do to extend a boiler’s lifespan, and how to tell when you need a replacement. The experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, the most trusted HVAC contractor in Tulsa, reveal key facts about boiler maintenance and care below. 

How Boilers Compare to Other Heating Systems

Every household needs to stay warm throughout the chilly winter months, but they may use various heating systems to do so. Furnaces can produce heat by using natural gas, oil, or electricity as a fuel source. These systems tend to last 15 to 20 years on average but require regular maintenance and care to avoid common problems. 

Heat pumps make a great gas-free alternative to furnaces. These eco-friendly options don’t produce any heat through combustion but instead transfer existing heat from a natural source, such as geothermal heat. Heat pumps also serve as a dual heating and cooling system, so you don’t have to worry about having two separate HVAC systems. 

Many homeowners prefer boilers as their primary source of heat because they tend to last longer than other systems. These whole-house heating systems are also highly efficient. Modern electric-powered boilers have an annual fuel utilization efficiency between 95% and 100%.

How Long Do Boilers Last?

It’s a slight myth that boilers can last up to 50 years or more. This impressive lifespan was the norm for bulky cast iron boilers used decades ago. Today, they aren’t a reliable option because of their size and cost to operate or install. Modern boilers don’t last as long as cast iron boilers, but they do have a fairly impressive lifespan with proper care. 

How long do boilers last on average? Many homeowners can expect to get at least 20 years of use out of a boiler. However, some systems may only last about 15 years, while others can approach close to 30 years of use. It all depends on a few important factors. 

Boiler Lifespan Factors: Common Issues That Impact Boiler Longevity

Some homeowners can operate their boiler for 25 to 30 years, while others need to replace theirs after 15 years of use. What causes this large discrepancy in the lifespan? Below, we break down some common reasons why some boilers tend to wear more quickly. Using this information, you can adjust your system to reap the most benefits from it. 

Heat Settings and Overall Use

Do you set your thermostat higher than most people during the winter? Is your boiler always running to maintain such a high indoor temperature? If so, you’re more likely to experience issues with your boiler down the road. 

More use means the system will face more wear and tear. You can try lowering your heat settings to reduce the wear on your system or take measures to promote warmth throughout the house, including:

• Using a fireplace or space heater
• Insulating the house
• Monitoring hot water use for both your shower and washing machine

Corrosion and Boiler Durability

Any sign of corrosion on your boiler can potentially decrease its lifespan. As the material continues to corrode over time, the system will begin to break down and eventually need replacement. It’s possible to add chemicals to the water supply to prevent corrosion. 

Regular Maintenance

If you’re surprised to learn that boilers can last up to 30 years, but you always need to replace yours every 15 years, it means you’re likely neglecting proper maintenance. Many people who ask HVAC experts, “How long do boilers last?” expect the system to last for decades without issue. However, boilers will need regular maintenance if you want to get the most use out of them. 

Schedule annual maintenance with an HVAC technician to ensure your boiler lasts a long time. The technician will clean parts of the system, tighten any loose connections, and lubricate moving parts to prevent friction. 

What To Expect During Boiler Replacement

When it comes time to replace your worn-out system, make sure you enlist the help of knowledgeable HVAC technicians with plenty of experience installing boilers. They can equip your home with a brand-new boiler with an impressive efficiency rating so you can save on your heating costs. The installation time may take a few hours, or it could span a few days, depending on the scope of the project. 

The process typically involves the following:

• Removing the old boiler
• Upgrading outdated pipes
• Fitting the new boiler and its accessories
• Testing the system to make sure it works properly

Your installer will walk you through the entire process and make sure you end up with a boiler that will meet your heating demands and budget. Remember to perform maintenance on your new boiler so you can prevent major repairs and issues that force you to replace it earlier than expected. 

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for Superior Boiler Services

After reading this post, you no longer have to ask, “How long do boilers last?” If your boiler starts to fail or you want to prolong its life, we’re the team you can count on. At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we specialize in repairing, replacing, and maintaining heating systems of all kinds, including boilers. Our technicians can make sure your home has a reliable heating system, whether you are installing a new furnace, seeking boiler repairs, or looking to switch to a heat pump. Contact us today at 918-262-5245 to schedule service. 

Keep your furnace working when you need it most. Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to schedule furnace repair or maintenance services.

You’re probably aware of the basic process your furnace uses to produce heat throughout your home. However, many homeowners have limited knowledge about certain components within the furnace, such as the limit switch. If you’ve ever wondered, “What does a furnace limit switch do,” this guide will provide an in-depth answer.

Discover the crucial role this piece plays in keeping your furnace operation safe. Learn more about furnace limit switches thanks to the HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Contact our specialists when you need a reliable heating and cooling company in Tulsa.

How Furnaces Heat Your Home

Do you know how a furnace fills your home with heat during the coldest months of the year? The process begins with a fuel source, such as natural gas, and burners to spark a flame and create heat. From there, the following takes place:

• The flame burns in the combustion chamber to produce heat and fumes.
• Hot air passes through a heat exchanger to remove gas fumes.
• Heat then travels to the motor blower to distribute it throughout your vents.
• The process repeats until your home reaches the temperature on your thermostat.

Many people think that the thermostat is the only temperature control element HVAC systems use. However, a furnace limit switch proves equally important.

What Does a Furnace Limit Switch Do?

The limit switch is essential for overall furnace safety. Its main function includes controlling the temperature of the furnace and bringing it down if it gets too high. Without this component, your home could face the risk of a fire or severe furnace damage due to the system overheating.

It helps to understand a basic breakdown of a normal heat cycle and how the limit switch works:

• You power on your furnace by turning up the temperature on your thermostat.
• The furnace burners begin the process by heating air in the plenum, a chamber that holds heat before distributing it through your vents.
• The furnace will continue to heat the plenum until it reaches your desired temperature and then transfer heat through your duct system.
• The limit switch monitors the temperature and shuts down the burners if the furnace starts to overheat.
• A blower fan activates to cool the system down to a safe temperature.
• After the furnace is at a safe temperature again, the limit switch triggers the burners to repeat the process.

Without a functioning limit switch, a furnace can put you in harm’s way. A fire can break out due to overheating. This becomes especially dangerous when combined with pressurized gas flowing into the burners.

Overheating can also cause the heat exchanger to break. This exposes you to carbon monoxide gases, which can cause serious health effects.

Regular furnace maintenance keeps the limit switch working properly and ensures your safety every time you heat your home. Technicians will check all components of the system, including the limit switch, and perform repairs if something is wrong. This helps keep your heating system operating efficiently and can extend its lifespan.

Signs Your Furnace Limit Switch Is Starting To Fail

Along with “What does a furnace limit switch do,” one of the most common questions homeowners have about this component is, “How can you tell your limit switch is failing?” Look out for the following signs that it needs repairs:

• The system suddenly stops before reaching your desired temperature, also known as short cycling.
• The furnace blowers keep running.
• Cool air comes out of your vents instead of heat.

While these issues may be frustrating, you can have peace of mind that the limit switch continues to keep you safe by preventing the furnace from getting too hot. However, you don’t want to spend the frigid winter months in a cold house because your limit switch activates too often or when it doesn’t need to cool the system down. Let a licensed technician inspect the furnace and perform repairs so you can enjoy reliable heating when you need it most.

Why Furnace Limit Switches Fail

Your limit switch may start malfunctioning on its own due to wear and tear over time. However, a few other causes may be responsible for the heating issues. Discover what else causes your limit switch to quit working as it should.

Dirty Sensors

The limit switch monitors the furnace’s temperature through a sensor. If grime covers the sensor, the switch can’t properly read the temperature and causes the system to short as a precaution.

Lack of Airflow

Limited airflow within your heating system can cause the switch to trip. Blocked vents and clogged air filters can restrict airflow, so it’s vital to make sure heat can travel throughout your home.

What To Do if Your Furnace Limit Switch Malfunctions

Although you now know the answer to “What does a furnace limit switch do,” you might be wondering what to do if this heating component fails. Take the best course of action and contact a professional HVAC contractor at the first sign of an issue. They can repair or replace the switch so that it functions properly.

They will also remind you of ways to keep your system in excellent condition, such as:

• Changing your air filter every one to three months
• Keeping vents open and clean
• Scheduling regular maintenance

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for Superior HVAC Services

After reading through this information, you no longer have to ask, “What does a furnace limit switch do?” Understanding this part of your heating system can help you keep your furnace operating safely. If you have other questions regarding your heating system, such as if running a furnace without a filter is safe, turn to the experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. 

We can assess your HVAC system, answer any questions you have, and get all components working properly thanks to our repair and maintenance services. To schedule a furnace inspection, contact our friendly specialists in Tulsa at 918-393-4577. 

Is your gas furnace having problems? Call 918-393-4204 to receive expert service on your gas furnace from top-rated professionals with Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

Your furnace keeps you comfortable during cold months. However, after many years of using the same system, you may start to notice operational issues.

Many homeowners want to know, “How long does a gas furnace last?” Examining the factors that impact gas furnace lifespans can teach you how to optimize your system.

The best way to keep a furnace in top condition is to enlist a trusted heating contractor in Tulsa, OK, for routine maintenance and inspections. Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offers top-rated services for every component of your HVAC system. Call today to optimize your indoor heating and cooling.

Average Lifespan of a Gas Furnace

Many homes use furnaces and boilers for heat, but many homeowners still don’t know the answer to the question, “How long does a gas furnace last?”

Most furnaces and boilers have a lifespan of about 15 to 20 years. Gas furnaces, however, sometimes have a slightly shorter lifespan.

In rare cases, you might get 30 years of effective use out of your gas furnace. Certain optimization strategies give you a better chance of receiving more than 15 years of effective operation from your furnace.

Factors that Impact Furnace Lifespan

Before learning how to optimize your furnace, it’s essential to understand the components that impact its lifespan.

Furnace Size

Many people don’t realize the importance of their furnace size. If a furnace is either too big or too small, it can lead to a premature decline.

Furnaces that are too small will have to overwork to heat the space. Not only will this increase energy use and utility expenses, but it can also lead to early failure.

Oversized furnaces might seem unproblematic because they have more power than necessary. However, this actually causes the furnace to turn on and off too frequently, and this inconsistent cycling can cause issues with certain power mechanisms.

Make and Model

The make and model of a system provides a baseline for its lifespan. Newer systems have energy-saving mechanisms that extend their lifespan and increase efficient operations.

Proper Installation

Your furnace’s vitality depends heavily upon the quality of installation. Considering that over half of all  furnace installations are improper, hiring qualified experts for the job is especially crucial. Installation issues can reduce efficiency, increase breakdowns, and significantly decrease system lifespan.

Humidity and Ventilation

Humidity can cause problems with almost any HVAC system. For gas furnaces, humidity leads to premature rusting and breakdowns. Additional moisture in the air can also prove problematic for the system’s heat exchanger.

Quality Ductwork

The ductwork running throughout your ceilings is responsible for more than just distributing air. In fact, ductwork significantly impacts your system’s efficiency.

Shoddy ductwork could allow air to seep into your attic spaces and drywall. While this doesn’t pose any threat to your property, it decreases the efficiency and increases the workload of your furnace. These issues can lead to a shorter lifespan.

Maintenance Routine

Getting quality maintenance from qualified professionals provides a top way of optimizing your gas furnace. Routine inspections and tune-ups can address developing issues before they turn into significant problems. You could also see savings over time after professional maintenance optimizes your system.

Ways to Maximize Your Furnace Lifespan

While certain predetermined factors impact your furnace’s lifespan, there are ways to maximize its longevity. Investing in these optimization solutions can save money on home heating in the long run.

Hire Top-Rated Experts for Installation

Installation errors create a sketchy foundation for operating success, so it’s imperative to hire only top-rated professionals to install your furnace and ductwork. Installation professionals should have licensing, insurance, many years of experience, and excellent customer reviews.

Choose an Updated Make and Model

HVAC technology changes constantly. Whether you’re replacing an old furnace or getting your first system, choosing an updated make and model ensures the longest possible lifespan. Research different brands and special features to find the best fit for your space.

Limit Humidity and Moisture Exposure

Limiting humidity within your interiors improves all your home comfort systems. Invest in a dehumidifier or program your air conditioner to run more frequently to eliminate moisture in the air. 

Limiting humidity mitigates potential issues for the gas tank, fuel lines, heat exchanger, and ductwork. Protecting these expensive parts of your system’s infrastructure helps maximize your gas furnace’s lifespan.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Homeowners who hire professionals to perform regular maintenance and inspections on their systems can catch potential problems long before they flourish into expensive repair issues. Call experts from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for seasonal furnace maintenance to keep your system optimized and prepared for seasonal temperature extremes.

Use Your Furnace More Strategically

Timing your furnace usage more specifically and strategically allows you to get just the right amount of interior heating without overworking your system. Turn your furnace on lower temperatures whenever you leave the house and bundle up with extra blankets to limit nighttime use. These seemingly minor strategies can lead to savings and increased system efficiency.

Pay Attention to Filter Cleanliness

Air filters keep air flowing through your home clean and healthy. As dirt and grim accumulate on your filters, it causes problems for every part of your HVAC system. Gas furnaces can experience particularly costly issues with dirty filters.

Dirty filters restrict airflow. Restricted airflow can cause overheating and threaten the safety of the furnace’s mechanical components. Changing your filters monthly can help avoid these issues.

Signs Your Furnace Might Need Replacing

While there are ways to optimize your furnace’s lifespan, there are situations where you may need to decide if repairing or replacing your furnace is more appropriate. Systems older than 15 years might start experiencing frequent problems that lead to decreased efficiency and increased energy bills. As such, replacing your furnace could be the best way to save money long-term on your home’s heating needs.

The following are some signs that you should replace your furnace:

• System is older than 15 years and experiences frequent problems
• Repairs cost more than 50% of the cost of a new system
• Strange noises or odors during operation
• Inconsistent cycling
• Drastically increasing energy bills
• Fluctuating temperatures

Should I Replace My Furnace?

While asking, “How long does a gas furnace last?” it’s also important to consider when you might need to replace the system. By referring to the signs above, you can start to get a sense of when continuing to operate on the same furnace system might not be beneficial. 

Another way to decide whether you should replace your furnace is to consult with professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Our experts can inspect your current system and help you decide whether a repair or replacement job is the best next step.

Optimize Your Heating Capabilities with Service From Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

When your furnace control board starts to age, it could cause problems that might make a complete replacement more worthwhile. However, these jobs require qualified professionals who can inspect and replace your system.

Top-rated experts from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offer Tulsa residents the best services for any heating, cooling, or plumbing issues and believe that everyone deserves the best plumbing services available. We offer financing options so you can choose a payment plan that works with your financial situation.

So, how long does a gas furnace last? For answers to this and more questions, call 918-393-4204 and consult professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

Is your HVAC unit not performing at its best? Don’t hesitate to contact us at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to diagnose and address the problem!

When you put plants, flowers, and shrubbery around your house, you have to carefully consider which species you’ll use, their needs, and their placement. You must know where to put plants around AC units outdoors because the flowers can affect the performance of the HVAC system.

Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offers expert AC installation in Tulsa, OK, as well as many other top-tier HVAC services. We understand the desire to use plants to improve your yard’s appearance, but some options can prove problematic for your air conditioner unit. Consider our guide below to learn the best practices for putting plants around an air conditioning system. 

Do: Provide Sufficient Clearance Around Your Air Conditioner

The main problem people experience with putting plants around AC units stems from their closeness. Air conditioners need sufficient airflow via the outdoor condenser unit to make sure the system’s interior components work correctly.

Airflow restriction, whether from the air handler indoors or the condenser unit outside, can cause many problems for the equipment over time. For example, a lack of proper airflow can keep cool air from quickly dissipating around the condenser coils, resulting in ice developing on the coils.

To ensure the right amount of air passes through the air conditioner’s condenser unit, you should put plants, flowers, and other greenery at least three to five feet away from the unit. This rule applies to each side of the unit, not just the front. This gives the system enough space and provides sufficient clearance for air conditioner technicians to access the condenser unit safely for inspections, maintenance, and repairs.

Airflow and accessibility aren’t the only reasons to ensure you don’t put your plants too close to the equipment. The air conditioner condenser unit typically expels lots of heat. However, the heat could damage some plants. 

Do: Consider How Plants Affect the Shade Around the Air Conditioner

One of the best things about landscaping with your air conditioner in mind is that shade can improve the system’s efficiency. Though the outdoor system can handle year-round weather and sun exposure, keeping it under abundant sunlight makes it harder for the equipment to dissipate the heat it generates. As a result, your home could have extra solar heat gain, which forces the air conditioner to work harder to keep the interior cool. 

With shade, you can stay comfortable indoors without overworking your air conditioning unit or paying extra for monthly utilities due to excessive energy consumption. 

Trees offer the best shade opportunities. Ideally, you should plant trees in your yard at least five feet away from the cooling system. Choose options that keep their leaves or needles throughout the winter, such as beech or evergreens, to minimize how much debris will shed into your condenser unit.

Do: Know What Plants Work Best Around Air Conditioners

Though your plant and landscape preferences will likely influence your yard’s appearance, it helps to know these universal tips about the best options for plants around AC units before making any drastic changes to the outdoor space:

• Choose Plants That Grow Up Instead of Out. Even if you put plants three feet away from your air conditioner, it could still be a problem if the foliage grows outward. Instead, opt for plants that grow upward, like golden juniper.
• Opt for Evergreens. Trees that shed their leaves and needles during their dormant period will leave your outdoor air conditioning equipment vulnerable to organic debris buildup. If you don’t want the extra landscaping and HVAC maintenance, choose evergreens like spruce or boxwood.
• Avoid Plants That Attract Insects. Bees, wasps, and other insects often make nests in or around air conditioners due to the climate around them. Unfortunately, major pollinators like bee balm and goldenrod attract these insects, so putting them close to your system isn’t a good idea. 
• Stay Away From Thorny Plants and Shrubs. Though rose plants and holly bushes are beautiful and desirable to many homeowners, we don’t recommend putting them too close to air conditioners. Their thorns can make it difficult to access the equipment for repairs and upkeep.
• Consider Using Drought-Tolerant Plants in Your Landscape. Since air conditioners expel a lot of heat, consider adding drought-resistant plants near them to prevent avoidable damage to the flowers and shrubs. 

Do: Explore Other Landscaping Options for Your Yard

Many people consider the outdoor portion of their air conditioning units to be eyesores and always look for ways to cover them. Putting plants around it will sometimes work, but that’s not the only solution. Consider these other landscaping tips for hiding your air conditioner:

• Potted Plants: Instead of going through the work of putting plants directly into the soil around the air conditioner, you could use large potted plants. Flower pots make it easier to adjust the landscape’s appearance and the plants’ distance from the condenser unit.
• Fencing: A small fence or trellis around the equipment with decorative vines allows you to discreetly hide your air conditioner unit without negatively impacting your yard’s appearance. 
• Gravel: Despite not hiding an air conditioner unit, creating a lovely gravel garden around the system will minimize debris and make your yard’s landscape look intentional and well-maintained with minimal upkeep. 

Don’t: Put Flower Pots or Other Items on the Condenser Unit

A common misconception people have about air conditioners and their outdoor units is that clearance only applies to their sides and not their tops. It’s important not to put flower pots or other items onto the condenser unit.

Not only could the vibrations from the equipment possibly topple the potted plant and fill the unit with soil, leaves, and other debris. The pot could also restrict airflow if it’s big enough. 

Don’t: Cover Your Air Conditioner Too Much

You could buy an air conditioner screen that shields it from sight and prevents debris from getting inside of it. Still, you don’t want to restrict airflow, which sometimes occurs with these screens, so it’s best not to use them. If you want something to hide the equipment from view, install a garden hedge or lattice at the appropriate distance from the air conditioner.

Don’t: Forget About Grass and Other Low-Lying Plants

Grass and low-lying plants around AC units can also become problematic if they grow too high or if you mow too closely to the equipment. If grass blades, mud, pebbles, and other materials get inside the equipment, it could dirty the condenser coil and reduce its efficiency.

Ideally, grass and perennials should be two to three feet away to minimize complications. If you want to improve the landscape directly around the condenser unit, a stone border or gravel garden is the way to go. 

Reach Out to Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Today for Air Conditioning Help

Knowing how to correctly put plants around AC units and knowing why AC placement matters will help extend the life of your system and ensure its efficiency. Still, you can count on our experienced professionals at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to provide the care and attention your cooling system needs. We offer reliable and affordable HVAC repair, installation, and replacement services throughout Tulsa, OK.

We’re the team to call if your condenser unit has a problem due to nearby plants, insects, or other causes. Call 918-262-5245 to request an appointment with us at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today.  

During the hottest months of the year, there’s nothing better than walking into an air-conditioned room to escape the outdoor heat. As a result, issues with your AC during these months could threaten your comfort. For example, when heat and humidity increase, you might start to notice mist coming from your air conditioner. 

You may worry, “Why is my air conditioner blowing mist?” Discovering the reasons why mist forms and how to reduce an AC moisture problem can give you peace of mind.

If you’re dealing with HVAC moisture issues, call Tulsa’s expert AC repair from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Our licensed and insured HVAC professionals can keep your home cool, dry, and comfortable year-round. Call today to schedule a service consultation.

How Air Conditioner Mist Forms

During air cooling cycles, your HVAC unit cycles air throughout your property, removing heat and humidity in the process. When cooler air interacts with warmer, humid air, it’s not uncommon for mist to form. However, it’s only condensed water vapor resulting from the interaction of the cooler and less cool air.

The amount of mist formed depends on the dew point of the room. The dew point is the temperature at which water condensation and mist can form.

On particularly hot days when your indoor spaces could become more humid, it would not be uncommon to see a good amount of mist as your air conditioner powers on. While this mist is not usually indicative of an issue, it might be wise to get your system checked.

Smoke vs. Mist From Air Conditioning

While asking the question, “Why is my air conditioner blowing mist?” it’s essential to consider the difference between mist and smoke. If smoke comes from your AC unit, call professionals immediately, as you could be dealing with a dangerous issue.

Odor provides the first indicator of whether you’re dealing with a mist or a smoke problem. Mist coming from your AC unit shouldn’t have any smell whatsoever. When smoke is blowing from your air vents, you’ll know immediately by the charred, burning smell.

Although mist should have no smell, a musty scent could indicate a mold problem. In these cases, call professionals to inspect your unit. Otherwise, mist formation probably does not indicate an AC cooling problem requiring attention.

Reasons for an AC Mist Issue

There are many reasons an AC mist issue might occur. However, these reasons typically all relate to seasonal weather changes that create the environment for more mist to form as air conditioners power up.

Temperature Changes

As the temperature increases during the summer months, it’s not uncommon for there to be more moisture in the air. Additionally, hotter days and temperatures mean that cold air will interact with warmer air more significantly. Mist could increase during these periods as the heat makes it easier to form.

Humidity Levels Increase

Increasing indoor humidity levels are another main culprit for mist coming from an AC unit. When there is more moisture in the air, there is a higher chance of mist forming. Pay attention to your indoor humidity levels, knowing that there is no cause for concern when humid days yield greater mist.

Excess Water Buildup

Like increased humidity, water buildup within your air conditioner will invariably cause more mist formation upon operation. Condensation in AC units can occur from many different sources, some problematic and others not. However, if you notice any frost or leaks, you might need to get your system checked for water buildup.

Ways To Stop Mist Formation

While mist is typically a nonissue for air conditioners, it’s essential to know how to stop mist formation. These are the six main ways of decreasing mist formation.

Variable Speed Air Conditioner

Variable speed air conditioners automatically vary fan speeds to optimize indoor cooling, limit mist, and reduce energy costs. Variable speed units can increase and decrease fan speeds to achieve ideal temperatures more quickly and give the unit breaks that limit energy use. Investing in one of these units could offer more benefits than just limiting mist.

Replace Air Filters

Dirty air filters offer another explanation for excess mist formation. As air cycles through your system to cool your home, it brings with it dust and grime from the air filters. Excessively dirty air filters can seemingly create more mist, as cooler air contains more dust particles.

Keep AC Powered on While Out

Most people think they’ll save money by turning off their air conditioner every time they leave home. However, keeping your air conditioner powered on while you’re gone can provide both energy savings and mist reduction. Because your home won’t have time to heat up, keeping your unit on could resolve mist. 

Get a Dehumidifier

Removing humidity from the air will immediately limit mist. Investing in a dehumidifier can make your home more comfortable and dry while limiting mist.

Ensure You Have a Properly Sized Unit

Any residential or commercial space that has an improperly sized air conditioner will experience issues. Among these problems, mist formation might be at the top of the list. Thus, excessive mist might indicate that your air conditioner is not the proper size for your space.

Call Professionals for an Inspection

If mist formation is causing concern, call professionals for an inspection. HVAC experts from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can check your entire system to see if there are problems that require professional attention.

Fortify Your AC Unit With Top-Rated Professionals From Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Have you noticed that your house is colder than the thermostat setting? Mist offers one sign of temperature regulation issues and moisture problems for your HVAC unit that may require professional attention.

When you’re ready to address your AC cooling problem or moisture issue, call HVAC experts from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. With over 20 years of experience, we’re the best local professionals to optimize your HVAC system. 

So why is my air conditioner blowing mist? Learn more about your AC moisture problem by calling 918-276-7151 and consulting top-rated HVAC professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

HVAC systems serve as one of the most essential features of any home, office, or commercial space. However, when choosing a system, many prospective buyers don’t realize how many options are available.

Without the right information, choosing between common HVAC systems could be stressful. With these decisions, it’s most important to prioritize your space’s needs and consider how you want to use your system. Our guide to the seven common HVAC systems can help you decide what is best for you.

Call the top-rated heating and cooling company in Tulsa when you’re ready to install your new HVAC system. Whether you need help choosing between different types of air conditioners or require maintenance on your current system, call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

Ducted vs. Ductless Systems

Before diving into the different types of heating and cooling systems, it’s important to understand the difference between ducted and ductless systems. Simply put, a ducted system distributes air throughout a space with vents and ductwork integrated into the framework of the property. These systems typically require installation during a building’s construction.

Ductless HVAC systems come in many different forms. However, the main feature is that these units typically serve only one or a couple of spaces. Ductless HVAC systems usually fit spaces that require more temperature control flexibility.

#1: Split System

Split systems are one of the most common HVAC varieties. These ducted systems have split components for heating and cooling, which users can control with one centralized thermostat. 

In most cases, the cooling component depends on an outdoor condenser unit while the heating comes from a furnace or gas heater hidden in a basement or closet space. These HVAC system types allow for high levels of heating and cooling control to keep temperatures consistent throughout the building.

Some of the pros include:

• Centralized system
• High-level heating and cooling control
• Keeps temperatures consistent
• Controlled on one thermostat

Some cons include:

• Higher maintenance needs
• More expensive to install
• Provides less flexibility

#2: Hybrid Split System

Another one of the most common HVAC systems is the hybrid split system. Like split systems, hybrid split systems have different heating and cooling components that distribute air through ductwork and vents. 

The main difference between these HVAC system types is the heating source. While hybrid split systems may still utilize gas for heat, they also have backup electric options to sustain heating and reduce energy costs.

Some pros include:

• Centralized temperature control
• Distributed through ductwork
• Offers gas and electric heating

Some cons include:

• Higher upfront costs
• Increased maintenance needs
• Less temperature control flexibility

#3: Packaged Systems

Packaged heating and cooling systems provide a more compact and less expensive way of delivering temperature control to your space. These systems house the heating and cooling components in the same unit, connecting them to a building’s supply and return ducts. Offering lower costs, maintenance, and space needs, a packaged system might be the perfect fit for your small space.

This system has several pros, including:

• Lower upfront costs
• Lower maintenance needs
• Centrally sourced heating and air

But there are a few drawbacks:

• Somewhat less powerful than split systems
• Not suitable for large spaces

#4: Zoned HVAC Systems

Zoned HVAC systems provide the highest degree of temperature control among the ducted configurations. These common HVAC systems function like split systems but allow users to vary the temperature in different zones.

People who choose these systems can also decide how they want to zone the HVAC unit. Zoning flexibility allows users to group together certain rooms, maintain different comfort levels, and save energy.

These systems offer:

• Centrally sourced heating and cooling
• Increased temperature flexibility
• Energy savings
• Zoning flexibility

But they also have:

• Higher upfront costs
• Higher maintenance needs

#5: Portable Spot Coolers and Heaters

Among the ductless HVAC system options, portable spot coolers and heaters offer the most flexibility and cheapest operation. Portable spot coolers and heaters are units that users can move throughout their space at different times to provide heating or cooling to one area.

Most spot coolers and heaters operate from electrical power and have wheels so they can move around any space. Regardless of this flexibility, the system still requires a safe output area for the exhaust created during heating and cooling production.

These systems have:

• Portable heating and cooling
• Lower costs
• Lower energy use

However, they have some cons:

• Only cools or heats one space at a time
• Requires exhaust area

#6: Window AC Units

These air conditioners typically screw into the framework of a window and cool indoor air in one space. Cheap and simple to install, window AC units are ideal for smaller apartments and single offices.

These units are:

• Flexible
• Easy to install
• Cost-effective

However, they have some drawbacks:

• Cools one space
• Less powerful unit
• Provides only cooling

#7: Duct-Free Mini-Split

Duct-free mini-split systems also eliminate ductwork while providing excellent temperature control within a space. You might have seen duct-free mini-split air conditioners if you have ever encountered a wall unit.

These systems cool individual rooms, providing high temperature control flexibility. Furthermore, duct-free mini-splits reduce energy costs over time and provide significant savings.

These systems offer:

• Flexible cooling
• Energy savings over time
• Excellent cooling for individual spaces

But they also:

• Are less far-reaching
• Have expensive installation
• Still require some outdoor components

Choosing the Right System for Your Space

Even after understanding the HVAC systems available, you might struggle to select the best unit. Consult professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for help choosing between the common HVAC systems. Our professionals can inspect your space and identify the best option.

Receive Expert HVAC Advice and Service From Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Experts from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can balance your HVAC system and optimize your indoor comfort. At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we believe that everyone deserves excellent HVAC services to keep their space comfortable. Explore our financing options to get the service you need with a payment plan that aligns with your financial situation.

For more information about which of the common HVAC systems is right for your space, call (918) 276-7151 and consult professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help you install an efficient heating system when you call 918.393.4204.

If you’re looking for efficient heating methods for your home, you might wonder, “How long does it take to install a new boiler?” Keep reading to discover which factors affect how quickly Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can install your new boiler. As a trusted and expert heating contractor in Tulsa, OK, we approach every job, no matter the size, with dedication and professionalism.

Benefits of Installing a Boiler

If you’re debating between boiler installation and some other type of heating system, knowing the benefits can help you more easily make the decision. 

Increased Efficiency

While different boilers have various efficiency ratings, a boiler is almost always more cost-effective than a furnace.

What makes a boiler so energy efficient? Whereas furnaces heat air directly, boilers heat water, which they then transport to radiators throughout the home where the steam ambiently heats the room. Because it takes less energy to heat water than air, they lower your utility bills.

Even Heating

While still relatively consistent, a home that uses a furnace for heat experiences less distribution than boiler-based HVAC systems. With a furnace providing heat, it quickly rises to the ceiling and then lowers as it cools. Especially in homes with high ceilings, this leaves you with inadequate access to the best-heated air.

A boiler uses radiant heat that keeps a consistent supply of warm air toward the bottom of your rooms. While many people find the heating from a furnace adequate, if your home can support a boiler system, you might find the difference in hot air consistency surprising.

Fewer Space Requirements

While some boilers take up more space than a furnace, a more modern variety called a combination boiler eliminates the water storage tank and heats water on demand. Much like a tankless water heater, these boilers are a great option for basements or utility spaces with unique layouts or space restrictions.

Better Air Quality

Furnaces require ductwork to distribute the air throughout your home and also use air filters to purify the air. Over time, the ductwork accumulates dust, which requires regular cleaning. You’ll also spend money on a new air filter for your furnace every 30 days. Over time, this affects your air quality and can aggravate your allergies or respiratory issues.

A boiler doesn’t use ductwork to distribute the warm air, as the steam travels through tubes and into your radiators or directly into your flooring. This means not only do you save money on cleaning and air filters, but you’ll breathe cleaner air that’s free of pollutants. A boiler also doesn’t dry out the air like a forced-air furnace.

Factors Affecting Installation Time

If you’re convinced about the benefits of a boiler, you’re probably wondering, “How long does it take to install a new boiler?” Whether you’re installing a new boiler or opting for a boiler replacement, several factors determine how long the process takes.

Type of Boiler

If you already have a boiler and are replacing it with the same type, installation should only take between four to six hours. You likely have one of the following boiler types:

• Heat only: A heat-only boiler is the standard type and works with a hot water cylinder to distribute the heated water directly to your radiators. They work best in old homes with classic radiators that can’t stand up to the high pressure of a combination boiler. They’re fast and affordable to install, but the warranty doesn’t cover the extended pieces of the system like radiators.
• System: These boilers are modern versions of conventional boilers, and while they still use a hot water tank, other components integrate into the boiler to take up a little less space. The major difference is that they don’t use open venting like the conventional boiler and can provide hot water in addition to heat. They’re excellent for homes or businesses that use a high volume of hot water, and the manufacturer’s warranty often covers a greater percentage of the system.
• Combination: A combination boiler provides both heat and hot water without requiring a separate tank. It provides instantaneous hot water by heating it directly from the main cold water line. While they’re more expensive to install, they use significantly less space, have lower maintenance costs, and you don’t have to wait for your water to heat up.

In addition, your boiler could use electricity, natural gas, and other types of fuel. If you change the type of boiler or its fuel source, it can take up to three days to install the boiler.

Current HVAC System

If your home currently uses a furnace and forced air for its heat, changing to a boiler-based system can take substantial time. Because it requires significantly reworking your HVAC system and installing new components, installing a brand new boiler can take even the best professionals up to five days.

Water Supply and Other Complications

Because your boiler requires access to your water supply, if complications occur during the installation, it can extend the job’s duration. The most common complications with the water supply and other components include the following:

• Connection leaks, such as a pipe of the incorrect size
• Defects in water transmission, which also arise from the wrong size pipe, and which can decrease the boiler’s efficiency
• Gas leaks, which can pose a serious safety threat
• High pressure within the boiler, which can cause an explosion

While these problems are rare, they require immediate attention from a specialist and often extend the installation time for a day or two.

How Does an HVAC Specialist Install a Boiler?

What is the installation process for a new boiler? The procedure usually looks similar to the following:

1. We walk you through the process so you know what to expect. If we think the installation will take multiple days, we encourage you to go about your life as normal.
2. If you have a boiler already, we cut it out and clean the existing system. Sometimes, this requires us to flush out the entire network.
3. We reconfigure your piping as needed so it perfectly fits the new boiler.
4. We connect your boiler to the water line, water outlets, your radiators, and, if necessary, the water tank.
5. If you’ve optioned for extra accessories, like water filters or filling loops, we connect those as needed.
6. Once we’re sure we’ve connected everything correctly, we test your system to confirm it functions efficiently and safely.
7. Finally, we spend time showing you how to work your boiler and answering any questions or concerns you might have.

If the installation is simple, such as replacing your current boiler with one of the same type, installation can take as little as four hours. If complications arise or you need significant changes to your HVAC system, the process can take up to five days. No matter the effort and duration required, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing practices frequent and clear communication.

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for All Your Heating Needs

How long does it take to install a new boiler? It depends on a number of factors, but Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing works as efficiently as possible to help you regain efficient heating for your home. We’re Tulsa’s first choice for HVAC because we’ve maintained a 20-year history of unparalleled service.

Whether you’re looking for a newer boiler heating system or want other HVAC solutions, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help. Book an appointment by calling 918-393-4204.