Top 5 Problems With Old Heating Units

Learn about the most common problems of old heating units and why you should consider upgrading your system today. 

If you have an old heating unit, you may be familiar with some of the problems that can come with it. From higher energy bills to more repairs, old heating units can be a hassle. Below, we’ll take a look at the top 5 issues with outdated heaters and why you should consider upgrading your system today.

1. Energy Bills Are Higher

As heating units age, their energy efficiency decreases. Many old heating units work overtime in order to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home. This means that they consume more energy to operate, which leads to higher utility bills for the homeowner.

2. More Repairs Are Needed

As heating units get older, they start to break down more often. This means that expensive repairs are frequently needed. Additionally, older heating units may not be covered by warranty, so all repair costs will be out-of-pocket.

Not only are repairs for old heating units expensive, but they can also be time-consuming because it can take technicians longer to diagnose and fix problems with older units. In some cases, parts may need to be special ordered, which can take days or even weeks. This can be frustrating for homeowners who just want their heat back as soon as possible.

3. Carbon Emissions Increase

Carbon emissions are one of the leading causes of climate change. And while we can’t completely eliminate our reliance on fossil fuels overnight, there are things we can do to lessen the impact. One way is to make sure your home is as energy-efficient as possible.  

Old heating units tend to release more carbon into the atmosphere, and according to Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), 20% of carbon emissions in the U.S. stem from electricity and HVAC. So, if you’re still using an old heating unit, you could be significantly contributing to climate change. 

4. Safety Decreases

Old heating units are a major fire hazard and according to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 48,530 home structure fires in the United States in 2015. These fires resulted in over $1 billion in property damage, 500 deaths, and 1,350 injuries. 

Space heaters are not the only type of old heating unit that poses a fire risk. Furnaces can also be quite dangerous. A furnace uses gas or oil to heat air, which is then circulated through the home by a fan. If the furnace is not properly vented, carbon monoxide can build up and cause serious health problems or even death. In addition, if there is a gas leak, the risk of explosion is very real.

Another safety concern with old heating units is the risk of electrocution. This is most likely to occur when someone attempts to repair an old unit without proper training or experience. Even changing a simple light bulb can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.

If you have an old heating unit, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to minimize them. Be sure to have your unit inspected regularly by a qualified technician and don’t attempt any repairs yourself unless you are absolutely sure you know what you’re doing.

5. Features Become Outdated

Old furnaces use pilot lights, which are a small, constantly burning flame that is used to ignite the main burner when it is turned on. While this technology is no longer used in newer furnaces, it can still be found in some older homes. 

This system is not only outdated, but it is also inefficient and dangerous. If the pilot light goes out, you will have to relight it manually. This can be difficult to do, and it can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Newer furnaces use electronic ignition, which is more efficient, safer, and less wasteful. 

Older furnaces also lack many of the energy-saving features that are standard in newer models. For example, most new furnaces come with a feature called an intermittent ignition device (IID). This helps save energy by only igniting the burner when there is a call for heat from your thermostat. Older furnaces without this feature will often have their burner running even when there isn’t a need for heat, which wastes energy and money.

Another common energy-saving feature that’s missing from older furnaces is a variable-speed blower motor. This type of motor runs at different speeds depending on how much airflow is needed. 

So, if your furnace only needs to circulate a small amount of air, the motor will run at a lower speed and use less energy. But if more airflow is needed, such as during a cold snap when your furnace is working overtime, the motor will run at full speed to keep up with demand.

Upgrade Your Heating System Today

If you’re still using an old heating unit, then you’re likely facing higher energy bills, more repairs, and decreased safety. Not to mention, your heating system is probably outdated and not very energy efficient. So why wait? Upgrade your heating system today and enjoy the many benefits that come with it. Contact Jones Services today by dialing [hls_phone_number]. Serving Goshen, NY and surrounding areas.