With winter and its colder temperatures just around the corner, warming your home with the help of your furnace is the natural choice to make — but do you hesitate when you reach for the thermostat? You might think of the expensive repair you needed last year during a cold snap, or an electric bill that soars thanks to the age and inefficiency of your home heater. No one should have to second-guess the decision to turn on the furnace and enjoy a more comfortable living space. If these are the concerns you face living in Santa Rosa, should a furnace replacement be in the cards for you this year?
When your furnace shows its age either through problems in efficiency, the quality of its heat output, or persistent breakdowns, you might decide a replacement is a smart choice. After all, why continue to struggle with a system you don’t enjoy when the advances in modern equipment can offer such a better experience? Even so, this is a big decision and not one to be made lightly; no one wants to commit to a furnace only to discover a year later that it isn’t a good fit!
Electricity or natural gas? Finding the right Santa Rosa furnace replacement
If you have irregular heating habits and only occasionally use your furnace, you could end up in a position where you’re paying too much on servicing and repairs that don’t yield a consistent service. In this case, switching away from gas and towards an electric heater could save you money. Though electricity can cost more than a gas supply, the difference will be negligible if you only need the heat for a few days or weeks out of the year.
If you run the heat on a frequent basis or to a higher temperature on especially cold days, though, a new gas unit will be the better option. You’ll experience significant gains in efficiency over your older unit, plus more satisfying heat when you need it most. Once you start shopping, though, it quickly becomes apparent there’s more to it than just picking a product off the shelf. How can you cut through all the jargon you see on labels and the Internet?
AFUE, BTU, oh my — important acronyms explained
The exact terminology you’ll deal with when searching for a Santa Rosa furnace replacement will depend on the specific type of furnace you choose, but in most cases, you’ll see furnaces rated in terms of the number of “BTUs” they output. For gas furnaces, you may also see a number called the “AFUE,” or for electric furnaces, the SEER or EER. What do all these terms mean, and more specifically, what do they mean for your choice?
BTU, or British thermal unit, is a scientific measurement of heat output, and it’s the primary way power is measured for furnaces — the higher the number, the more powerful a furnace. A typical furnace might be anywhere from 80,000 to 100,000 BTU, but it’s not uncommon to see numbers both smaller and larger than that. These numbers are for a typical family home; a small apartment might need a much less powerful unit, while a larger space will need more power. A professional can help you select the right size furnace to avoid overworking the equipment and wasting energy.
Related is the AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This number is expressed as a percentage and tells you how much of your furnace’s capacity you’ll actually be able to access with real-world heat losses taken into account. 90 to 95% are good numbers to aim for as you consider replacements. SEER is a similar type of efficiency rating, but for electric furnaces instead. Your goal is to identify a furnace with a BTU level appropriate for your space and an efficiency that’s in line with your heating usage habits and budget.
Installation: the final piece of the puzzle
Once you’ve developed a good sense of what you’ll need, there is only one process left to tackle: purchase and installation. Not only will you need the new system put in properly, connected to your ductwork, and tested, but you will also need the old unit hauled away afterward. The installation process often includes an analysis of the best location in your home for furnace placement and a look at whether there are any potential gains in efficiency to be made by improving home insulation.
You may need to address other factors, too — for example, when was the last time you had your ducts cleaned? Now might be a good time to investigate to ensure good long-term operation. At this stage, it’s worth turning to the professionals in the heating and cooling industry in Santa Rosa. A furnace replacement doesn’t have to be a hassle, and with fast, reliable help, you can prepare your home for the coldest days still to come.
Valley Comfort conducts heating and furnace repair services in the following communities: Santa Rosa, Napa, Rohnert Park, Healdsburg, St Helena, Calistoga and Windsor.
FAQ: Santa Rosa Furnace Replacement
1. How do I know if my furnace needs replacing?
If your furnace is over 15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or struggles to maintain consistent heat, it’s likely time for a replacement. Older units operate at 70% efficiency or less, while newer models boast up to 95% AFUE. Upgrading can save you 20-30% annually on energy costs.
2. What is the best type of furnace for Santa Rosa’s mild winters?
For Santa Rosa’s moderate climate, a high-efficiency gas furnace with an AFUE rating of 90% or higher is ideal. Electric furnaces are also a good choice for occasional heating, offering low maintenance and smaller carbon footprints. Compare efficiency ratings to find the best fit for your needs.
3. Does upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace really save money?
Yes! High-efficiency furnaces reduce wasted energy and can save homeowners in Santa Rosa up to $500 annually on heating bills. Plus, many models qualify for tax credits or rebates, further lowering your upfront costs.
4. How can I calculate the right furnace size for my home?
The furnace size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, and climate. As a general rule, Santa Rosa homes need about 25-30 BTUs per square foot. A professional load calculation ensures you get the perfect size, avoiding overworking or underutilizing your system.
5. What maintenance should I do before winter to avoid furnace issues?
Schedule a professional tune-up, replace air filters monthly, and clean around your furnace. Regular maintenance reduces breakdown risks by 95% and can extend the life of your furnace by 5-10 years.
6. How much does furnace replacement cost in Santa Rosa?
Furnace replacement costs range from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the type and efficiency rating. High-efficiency models are pricier upfront but provide long-term savings. Installation fees and permits may add $500–$1,500 to the total cost.
7. Should I consider a smart thermostat with my new furnace?
Absolutely! Smart thermostats optimize your furnace’s performance by learning your schedule and preferences. They can reduce energy usage by up to 10% annually. Popular options include Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell models.
8. Can I replace my furnace during winter, or should I wait?
Winter replacements are common, but schedule as soon as possible to avoid freezing temperatures if your furnace fails. Many companies in Santa Rosa offer emergency installation services, ensuring minimal downtime.
9. Are there rebates or incentives for upgrading my furnace in Santa Rosa?
Yes, many local utility companies offer rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. For example, PG&E offers up to $600 for high-efficiency furnace installations. Check with your provider for current programs.
10. How do dirty ducts affect furnace efficiency?
Dirty ducts can reduce airflow by up to 25%, forcing your furnace to work harder and use more energy. Cleaning ducts every 3-5 years improves system efficiency and indoor air quality, ensuring optimal performance.
