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Winterization Tips for Your HVAC System Winterization Tips for Your HVAC System

Winterization Tips for Your HVAC System

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, Heating and Air Conditioning Tips, HVAC. No Comments on Winterization Tips for Your HVAC System

Winter in Missouri likes to show up uninvited… and early. Keeping your home warm doesn’t have to be stressful, though — a little preparation goes a long way.

Quick & Easy HVAC Winterization Tips

  • Change your filter (seriously!) Your furnace can’t breathe through a dirty filter. Changing it often keeps the heat flowing.
  • Clean around the furnace A clean furnace area = better airflow + safer operation.
  • Check your thermostat settings Make sure it switches automatically to heat and that your schedule reflects the cooler months.
  • Keep vents open Closed vents do not save money. They stress your system.

Best Tip of All?

Schedule your fall furnace tune-up to catch little issues before they become big, expensive ones.

St. Louis HVAC Tax Credits St. Louis HVAC Tax Credits

HVAC Federal Tax Credits Ending in 2025: Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, Heating and Air Conditioning Tips, HVAC. No Comments on HVAC Federal Tax Credits Ending in 2025: Why You Shouldn’t Wait

If you’ve been thinking about replacing your furnace, AC, or upgrading to a heat pump… this is your sign from the HVAC universe (AKA us).
The federal HVAC tax credits created under the Inflation Reduction Act are scheduled to end on December 31, 2025, and that deadline is approaching faster than Missouri winter winds.

What Tax Credits Are Still Available?

Eligible homeowners can still claim up to:

  • $2,000 for installing a qualifying heat pump
  • $600 for a high-efficiency furnace
  • $600 for central AC
  • $150 for a home energy audit

That’s real money back in your pocket — and a more efficient, comfortable home.

Why the Urgency?

  • Equipment is already in high demand.
  • Contractors across the country will be booked solid by fall 2025.
  • These credits will not roll over into 2026 unless the government creates new legislation.

Beat the rush. Avoid the last-minute scramble. And lock in those savings before 12/31/2025.

Have questions? We love questions.

info@level9hvac.com

Changes to air conditioner regulations beginning in 2025

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, Heating and Air Conditioning Tips. No Comments on Changes to air conditioner regulations beginning in 2025

[St. Louis, Missouri] — Homeowners are facing significant price increases to their home comfort
as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prepares to implement sweeping changes to air
conditioner regulations beginning in 2025. These new regulations require air conditioner
manufacturers to move away from refrigerants currently in use to mitigate the environmental
impact of running a heating and cooling system. Although this sets the course for a more
environmentally-friendly future in home comfort, the changes are also expected to lead to a
staggering increase in installation costs, projected to rise by 10-25% on January 1, 2025, as
HVAC manufacturers implement the new technology.

Adding urgency to this situation, Ameren Missouri has announced that it will not continue its
rebate program in 2025, which has historically provided crucial financial support to
homeowners. Previously, rebates ranged from $450 to $1,300, assisting many in managing the
costs associated with replacing aging HVAC systems. Without this financial assistance, many
homeowners may find themselves unprepared for the financial burden of upgrading their
systems in 2025.

“This is a crucial moment for homeowners to stay informed and strategize their home comfort
investments,” said Kyle Brittingham, President at Level 9 Heating Cooling and Plumbing. “With
the impending changes and the loss of rebates, it’s essential for families to plan ahead and
explore their options.”

A heating and cooling system has an expected lifespan of 10-15 years, so homeowners with
aged heating and cooling systems are encouraged to act promptly and consider their needs
before the 2025 price increases take effect. Homeowners who replace their HVAC system
before December 31, 2024, can take advantage of the opportunities to save money that are still
available, including Ameren’s rebate program. For more information about the new HVAC
regulations, tips on how to navigate these changes, or a free estimate for a new system, please
contact Level 9 Heating Cooling and Plumbing at (636) 239-3581.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Abby Poetz
Marketing Director
Level 9 Heating Cooling & Plumbing
(636) 649-0022

CITED SOURCES:
EPA regulations will no longer allow heating and cooling equipment refrigerants with a Global
Warming Potential (GWP) over 700 to be installed after January 1 2025

R410A, the most common refrigerant for residential heating and cooling systems, does not meet
EPA regulations beginning in 2025

HVAC manufacturers will update their new equipment to utilize an EPA-compliant refrigerant,
which will be accompanied by a rise in price due to the new technology.

    Ameren Missouri will discontinue their rebate program in 2025

  • Ameren Missouri Heating and Cooling Program. “HVAC Rebate Program to End 12/31/24” . Received by Chunn, Rachael. (2024, October 17).
Dual-Source Heat Pumps in Washington, MO Dual-Source Heat Pumps in Washington, MO

How a Dual-Source Heat Pump Maximizes Efficiency

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on How a Dual-Source Heat Pump Maximizes Efficiency

If you’re considering a new heating system for your Washington, MO, home, there’s a good chance that a heat pump is among your finalists. However, you may have also encountered a variety of publications claiming that heat pumps make a poor match for regions with cold winters. Specifically, plenty of sources claim that heat pumps don’t do very well at temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s concerning when you consider that we see at least five months each year with lower average overnight temperatures than that. In reality, though, conventional heat pumps work at low temperatures, but they just may lose a bit of their vaunted efficiency. That’s where dual-source heat pumps make a perfect compromise. Here’s what they are and how they work to maximize your heating efficiency all winter long.

Heat Pumps and Cold Weather

Before we delve into dual-source heat pumps and why they’re a great option for homes in Washington, it’s important to understand how heat pumps work, particularly in cold weather. For starters, heat pumps, unlike other types of heating systems, don’t generate heat. Instead, they use the refrigeration cycle to collect heat energy from the outdoor air, amplify it, and carry it into your home.

The process works because even cold winter air still has a lot of heat energy, even if you don’t feel it. To collect it, heat pumps manipulate the temperature and pressure of a refrigerant, first making it colder than the outside air and then using the temperature differential to absorb heat from the air. Then, they increase the pressure on the warmed refrigerant to increase its temperature and make it hot enough to heat your home.

The trouble is that heat pumps work harder and harder to capture sufficient heat energy when the outside temperature drops. That’s where the notion of heat pumps struggling below 40 degrees Fahrenheit comes from. The truth is, however, that the average heat pump will still be more efficient than the average gas furnace until the outside temperature drops below 25 degrees Fahrenheit. At that point, they may need to engage a backup electric heating element to supplement the heat they collect from the outside.

Do All Heat Pumps Struggle in the Cold?

At this point, it’s worth noting that not every heat pump struggles in very cold weather. Today, there are a variety of heat pump models built specifically for use in cold climates. They have much wider operating temperature ranges, with some systems working efficiently down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit. However, that extra performance comes at a cost.

Cold climate heat pumps employ next-generation refrigerants and advanced technology to squeeze as much heat energy out of sub-freezing air as possible. As a result, they can cost significantly more than standard heat pumps. The good news is, however, that cold-climate heat pumps aren’t the only option for people living in places with cold winters. Dual-source heat pumps offer efficient and plentiful heat at any temperature and can cost less than a cold-climate heat pump.

What’s a Dual-Source Heat Pump?

Where a standard heat pump relies on heat strips, which are small electric resistance heating elements to provide a secondary heat source, dual-source heat pumps include a small gas-fired heating system. The idea is to have a second high-efficiency heating option for use when temperatures drop too low for a heat pump to work well.

Some dual-fuel systems use a preset temperature to control which heat source gets used when. For example, you may configure a dual-source heat pump to switch to the gas burner when the temperature drops below freezing. In that way, you guarantee that your home has sufficient heat and that you’re generating that heat in the cheapest way possible.

Some dual-source heat pumps can even make the decisions for you. They monitor the performance of their included heat pump and compare it to the known efficiency of the included gas burner. Once they determine that the heat pump has dropped below the efficiency of the gas burner, they’ll switch over. Then, they’ll switch back once outside temperatures rise enough to make the heat pump the better option.

Using a dual-source heat pump guarantees that you will always heat your home while saving the maximum amount of energy possible. When you consider that according to the US Energy Information Administration, space heating accounts for 42% of residential energy use, that’s a big deal. According to the EPA, homes with dual-source heat pumps can cut their winter heating bills by as much as two-thirds.

It also guarantees that your home will be comfortable all winter long. Owners of heat pumps often complain of a drafty feeling when the temperature outside drops significantly. This is because heat pumps only produce air that’s between 100 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. While that’s enough to heat your home, it’s close enough to your body temperature that it may not feel very warm. A dual-source heat pump, by contrast, switches to its gas burner in cold weather, which eliminates that problem. In that mode, a dual-source heat pump works exactly like a conventional gas furnace, churning out hot air that’s 140 degrees Fahrenheit or more.

Dual-Source Heat Pump Considerations

Dual-source heat pumps make a great option for the majority of homes here in Washington. However, there are some things you should consider before choosing one. The first is whether or not your home already has a natural gas supply line. If it doesn’t, putting one in can substantially add to your installation costs. In that situation, the cost advantage enjoyed by dual-source heat pumps versus cold-climate heat pumps evaporates quickly.

The same is true if your home currently has a boiler or other hot water-based heating system. Dual-source heat pumps rely on in-wall ductwork to carry warm air throughout your home. Retrofitting your home to include that ductwork can be both prohibitively expensive and disruptive. However, you can still take advantage of the efficiency of a heat pump in the form of a ductless mini-split system, provided that you install one rated for use in cold climates.

The Dual-Source Heat Pump Specialists

If you believe that a dual-source heat pump is a good option for your home, Level 9 Heating & Cooling can help. We’ve served the local area since 1975, offering top-quality HVAC installation, HVAC maintenance, and HVAC repair services. That includes selling and installing the latest in dual-source heat pump systems. We also offer plumbing services, indoor air quality services, geothermal HVAC systems, and commercial HVAC services. Plus, we have deep roots in the community, where our employees donate their skills, money, and time to a variety of worthwhile organizations. We’re also Better Business Bureau accredited with an A+ rating, so you can always count on our excellent customer service, fair prices, and quality workmanship.

If you’re interested in how a dual-source heat pump can provide an efficient heating solution for your Washington home, contact Level 9 Heating & Cooling today!

Furnace in St. Louis, MO Furnace in St. Louis, MO

Choosing Between a Gas or Electric Furnace

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on Choosing Between a Gas or Electric Furnace

When it comes time to choose the right home heating system, you have two options: gas or electricity. They both can keep your home warm in the winter months. However, each choice has its own set of benefits and disadvantages. Here is everything you need to know to find the one that meets your needs.

Differences Between Gas and Electric Furnaces

Gas and electric furnaces work in different ways to heat your home. Gas furnaces have been a popular choice for homeowners. Many people choose them because they are efficient. Plus, natural gas is less expensive than electricity. These furnaces use the combustion process to generate a lot of heat quickly. They are ideal for use in colder climates or homes with large living spaces. Along with that, gas furnaces are also easy to install and maintain. Most of the time, you only need an annual inspection and tune-ups to keep them running optimally.

On the other hand, electric furnaces are gaining in popularity. They are seen as an environmentally friendly option for heating homes. They do not produce emissions, so they are a cleaner choice than gas furnaces.

Additionally, electric furnaces are less expensive than gas furnaces. You will not need to have a dedicated gas line or storage tank. However, they do tend to be less efficient than gas furnaces. If you live in a colder climate, stick with a gas furnace.

Which One Uses the More Efficient Process?

Gas furnaces use a combustion process. When the thermostat signals the need for heat, the gas furnace ignites and heats the air. All that warm air is circulated throughout the home. A gas furnace can get warmer temperatures in a shorter timeframe than an electrical unit. While you may think the combustion process will make a lot of noise, that is not true. These furnaces operate more quietly than other options.

Electric furnaces use electricity to generate heat through a resistance process. This method is also efficient. However, you could experience some energy loss due to the conversion process. Electric furnaces also take a bit longer to reach the desired temperature.

While gas furnaces may have higher upfront costs, they can result in lower energy bills and provide more consistent and reliable heat during extreme weather conditions. Electric furnaces may be more affordable in the short term, but their energy consumption can increase over time.

Which One Is Less Costly to Install?

Another consideration is the installation costs. Gas furnaces have a higher upfront price. You will need a gas line, combustion chamber, and venting system.

With an electric furnace, there are no extensive requirements. They do not need all that extra infrastructure. Most of the time, they are easy to install. Electrical furnaces are a budget-friendly option for homeowners who don’t want to deal with expensive upfront costs.

While electric furnaces may have a lower upfront cost, they may cost more in the long run because of their higher operating costs. Electric furnaces consume more energy than gas furnaces. As a result, you will have higher monthly energy bills over time.

What Is the Greener Option?

Natural gas or propane combustion in gas furnaces is a source of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. These pollutants have been linked to air pollution that could cause issues resulting in climate change. While modern gas furnaces are designed to emit fewer pollutants than older models, they still create greenhouse gas emissions.

Electric furnaces are often considered more environmentally friendly. They do not produce emissions. However, you need electricity to power the furnace. Sometimes, those sources may not be considered “green” if they use fossil fuels. Fortunately, some regions use electricity from renewable sources such as solar or wind. If that is the case with your home or community, the furnace’s environmental impact can be reduced.

Additionally, electric furnaces have a longer lifespan than gas furnaces and require less maintenance. With that, you will not have to worry about parts or old units filling up landfills and creating more waste.

What About Maintenance Costs?

Since gas furnaces use natural gas, you will want to have regular maintenance performed on them. During this time, the technician will inspect the combustion chamber and look for any signs of cracks or other damage. A cracked combustion chamber is inefficient and can cause a carbon monoxide leak in your home. Every winter, this odorless gas kills numerous people.

However, the combustion chamber is not the only place where leaks can happen. The technician will take the time to inspect the entire system. Without these checks, gas could leak into your home and create a fire hazard.

Along with that, gas furnaces need the proper ventilation to remove gas fumes from the home. You never want to have a buildup of toxic gases. If there are any problems, the technician can quickly and safely fix these issues.

Electric furnaces do not have these stringent maintenance needs. Since there are no combustion components, there are fewer parts for a technician to inspect. However, that does not mean you don’t need an annual inspection. You still want to make sure all the heating components and elements are working at full performance.

Which Furnace Takes Up More Space?

Gas furnaces are known for their small and compact design. They are a great option for those with limited utility space. This advantage can help homeowners who need to optimize space utilization or have confined utility areas. You can use gas furnaces in almost any home layout.

Electric furnaces may require a larger installation area. Their design and electrical components often demand more space. You might not be able to fit this furnace in a small utility closet. However, size does depend on the manufacturer. You may be able to find one that can accommodate your smaller space needs.

Which One Is More Reliable During a Storm or Emergency?

Gas furnaces require a constant supply of natural gas to operate. While they are dependable, you may be stuck without heat during power outages or gas shortages. In emergencies, power disruptions can impact the operation of gas furnaces. However, many modern gas furnaces have electronic ignition systems that do not rely on a constant pilot light.

Electric furnaces are equipped to handle emergencies. They are not dependent on a continuous gas supply, making them more reliable during power outages. However, they are still susceptible to electrical grid failures. Homeowners living in areas prone to prolonged power outages should consider backup power solutions such as generators or battery backups to ensure the uninterrupted operation of electric furnaces during emergencies.

Whether you want a new gas or electric furnace, Level 9 Heating & Cooling can help. We also offer repair, installation, and maintenance services for heating and cooling systems for both commercial and residential properties. Our team also provides plumbing services in the area. We are proud recipients of the Expertise.com award for our exceptional HVAC services in St. Louis. We also believe in giving back to our local community. If you would like to learn more about the differences between gas and electric furnaces, contact Level 9 Heating & Cooling today.

Geothermal heating in St Louis, MO Geothermal heating in St Louis, MO

Top 10 Reasons to Consider Geothermal Heating

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on Top 10 Reasons to Consider Geothermal Heating

While St. Louis winters can be quite chilly above ground, it’s a different story underneath your feet. Deep underground, the temperatures stay fairly warm throughout the year. If you can access that warmth, you can use it to heat your home. That’s the concept behind geothermal heating, an approach to home comfort that offers multiple benefits.

1. Energy Efficiency

Geothermal receives praise for the incredible energy efficiency it provides. This method of heating relies on heat pump technology. As a whole, heat pumps are efficient heating systems. They warm a home by moving warmth from the outdoors into your home.

Many heat pumps draw heat from the outdoor air. Geothermal heat pumps are even more energy efficient than those that source heat from the air. That’s because the temperature underground stays pretty consistent no matter the season. Even on 10-degree days, it may still be about 50 degrees Fahrenheit down deep in the soil.

Unlike furnaces, geothermal pumps don’t have to generate heat. Rather, they simply transfer the underground heat that already exists into your home. As a result, geothermal heating systems are significantly more energy efficient than even the most highly rated furnaces.

2. Lower Operational Costs

The more efficient an appliance is, the less power it requires for operation. An energy-efficient geothermal heat pump requires no natural gas and only a small amount of electricity. Lower energy use leads to reduced utility bills.

The savings that you see in your fuel bills can help you recoup the cost of installing a geothermal system. You may find that it doesn’t take too long to offset your initial investment cost.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Energy efficiency has environmental benefits as well as financial ones. When you choose an efficient heating system, you can feel satisfied that you’re doing your part to protect the planet.

In addition, since geothermal heat pumps run on electricity rather than natural gas, they don’t require the burning of fossil fuels. They allow you to heat your house without producing large amounts of carbon emissions that may contribute to global warming.

4. Multi-functionality

Geothermal heat pumps are invaluable for heating a home in the winter, but that’s not all they can do. Heat pumps can cool your home as well. You can use your geothermal system in place of a traditional air conditioner. Your energy-efficient HVAC operation can, therefore, continue throughout the year.

A heat pump’s cooling mode is the opposite of its heating mode. Instead of moving heat from outside to inside, the appliance draws excess heat out of the indoor air and transfers it underground. Doing so cools down your house so that you will stay comfortable even on the hottest days.

Not only that, but the unit can also heat water. Instead of delivering the reclaimed heat into the ground, a geothermal system can use a desuperheater auxiliary heat exchanger to divert the heat to your hot water tank for your laundry and showers. This hot-water capability works during all seasons.

5. Improved Comfort

When you run a gas furnace, it operates in cycles. For a few minutes, it puts a heavy blast of heated air into your rooms. Then, the unit shuts off again until the thermostat drops low enough to kick on another round of heating. You may start to get a little chilly whenever the furnace is in its rest mode. Geothermal units put out warm air in a more consistent fashion. Many homeowners find that approach to heating preferable.

In addition, furnaces have a reputation for producing dry air that can cause respiratory troubles and skin irritation. Heat pumps don’t have the same drying effect. When you use a geothermal system, your nose, throat and hands may feel the difference.

6. Space Savings

With an HVAC setup that includes a furnace and an air conditioner, there are multiple parts involved. Outdoors, you have a compressor. Plus, both a furnace unit and an air conditioning unit sit indoors. Altogether, those components can take up a lot of space.

Geothermal systems don’t require as much floor space. There’s no outdoor unit and only one indoor component, the heat pump. The system also includes ground loops, but since those are buried outside, you won’t ever see them.

7. Reduced Noises

Running a traditional furnace can be a bit noisy. While a furnace that’s in proper working order shouldn’t be overly loud, you are still likely to notice whenever it kicks on and off. Geothermal heat pumps are much quieter.

Also, there is no outdoor compressor as there is with a traditional air conditioner. You will be able to enjoy quiet summer evenings in your backyard without the interruption of the AC’s loud hum.

8. Safe Heating

With a traditional furnace, there’s always a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. The combustion process produces this dangerous gas. If there’s a problem with your furnace, the carbon monoxide could leak into your house.

You won’t have to worry about that with geothermal heating. Since this type of system doesn’t rely on combustion to produce heat, there’s no carbon monoxide involved.

9. Tax Credits

Because of geothermal heating’s benefits, there are often incentives to install this type of system. You may be eligible for a tax credit if you decide to invest in geothermal. This can help you recoup the costs of installation even more quickly than you would otherwise.

The availability of tax credits may vary from year to year and depending on where you live. You can ask your geothermal professional whether any tax incentives are currently available in your area.

10. Impressive Life Span

Unlike an air conditioner compressor that sits outside throughout the year, geothermal heat pumps are protected from the elements. That means that they usually last longer than traditional heating and cooling systems.

In general, air conditioners are often good for 15 years. You may get closer to 20 years out of a standard furnace. A geothermal system, on the other hand, can last for years longer. The looping system, which is the underground portion of the system, may stay in proper working order for 50 years. The heat pump portion may need to be replaced after 20 or 25 years.

Considering that many people have their geothermal systems running for the majority of the year — in both summer and winter — that’s an impressively long life span!

Level 9 Heating & Cooling is your source for heating and cooling services in the Washington and St. Louis areas. We are experts in geothermal heating, and we’re also well-versed in caring for traditional air conditioners and furnaces. Our team specializes in both residential and commercial HVAC. You can count on us for indoor air quality and plumbing care as well. We’ve been serving the area for nearly five decades and look forward to becoming your trusted source for HVAC and plumbing expertise.

Reach out to Level 9 Heating & Cooling today to learn more about geothermal heating in St. Louis!

Home Heating in St. Louis, MO Home Heating in St. Louis, MO

Furnaces vs. Heat Pumps: Which Option Is Better for Your Home?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on Furnaces vs. Heat Pumps: Which Option Is Better for Your Home?

As a homeowner, you understand the significance of controlling the temperature in your house, especially when you want to stay warm during the winter season. Many homeowners struggle to understand the difference between a furnace and a heat pump. While both systems help to warm up your indoor air, they differ when it comes to factors like energy efficiency, heating capabilities, cost, and use of space.

Keep reading to learn more of the differences between a furnace and heat pump and determine which system is better for your home in Washington, MO.

How Heat Pumps and Furnaces Work

Heat pump systems serve as energy-efficient alternatives to furnaces. Powered by electricity, a heat pump will transfer heat from a cool environment to a warm one.

During the cold winter months, a heat pump will take the heat from outside and supply it inside to warm up your home. When summer sets in, heat pumps transfer heat from the indoors to the outdoors, which helps to cool your space.

On the other hand, a furnace needs fuel or natural gas to generate electricity. Then, the furnace produces heat and blows it inside of your home using an electronic ignition or a pilot light.

You’ll find a burner that burns the natural gas and heat exchangers that transfer heat inside pf your furnace. Other features include a blower fan that helps with heat distribution inside of your house and an outlet letting out gaseous byproducts.

Cost

When comparing a heat pump and a furnace, you’ll want to know which heating system costs more. To help you decide, you’ll need to find out what your home is already equipped for.

For instance, your house might have direct access to natural gas, making a furnace a more affordable option. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay more when installing a furnace.

Energy Efficiency

Comparing the energy efficiency of a furnace to that of heat pump system isn’t always straightforward. A heat pump is often more energy-efficient since it can transfer more heat energy.

However, the complication occurs when high-efficiency heat pumps use less source energy in warmer climates than furnaces. In colder climates, most gas furnaces do much better than energy-efficient heat pumps.

Furthermore, you’ll encounter relatively lower natural gas costs than electricity. So, the lifelong operating cost of your heating system becomes a point of consideration.

Maintenance

Both heating systems will work for years and function more efficiently with routine maintenance. You’ll find air filters in your furnace and heat pump that you can easily replace.

Your heat pump will come fitted with indoor and outdoor units that your HVAC technician will recommend cleaning and inspecting yearly. Although your furnace doesn’t require an outdoor unit, it’s often combined with a central air conditioner unit.

It may help to consult with a technician about the proper maintenance schedule depending on the uniqueness of your heating system. Typically, furnace maintenance will cost less than a heat pump, so you may incur more maintenance costs for your heat pump in the long run.

Space Requirements

Most furnaces will need at least 30 inches of clearance to be installed inside of your house. Alternatively, heat pumps need about 24 inches of clearance, and they get installed outdoors.

If you choose a traditional air-source heat pump system, you’ll need to buy a fan coil and an indoor air handler unit. Regardless of what you want, you’ll find plenty of available options on the market.

Performance Ratings

How well your heat pump and furnace performs will vary depending on your area or residence. Keep in mind that furnaces generate heat, while heat pumps only transfer heat from outside to inside your home.

So, when temperatures are moderate, the chances are high that your heat pump will perform much better. Even so, that doesn’t imply that the heat pump won’t function in colder weather conditions. In fact, heat pumps are capable of drawing heat from outside even when you’re experiencing freezing temperatures.

Nevertheless, the colder it gets, the harder it will be for your heat pump system to supply heat energy inside of your house. In the meantime, your furnace will continue generating heat energy even in icy climates.

Expected Lifecycle

If well-maintained, your furnace can last for about 20 years or more. Alternatively, correctly maintained heat pump systems will give you services for up to 15 years. So, you should expect a furnace heating system to generally have a longer lifespan compared to a heat pump system.

Heat Pumps vs. Oil Furnaces

There are plenty of similarities in the debate comparing oil furnaces to heat pumps and gas furnaces to heat pump systems. You’ll need to consider the installation costs when thinking about oil furnaces. You’ll also need to install an air handler and an outdoor unit for your heat pump.

Another consideration would be the cost of heating oil and electricity. High-efficiency systems will be your go-to option if your area experiences milder climates. Otherwise, your oil furnace will provide reliable comfort in colder weather conditions, even when the temperatures go below the dewdrop point.

You must ensure that you have a dependable oil supply when running an oil furnace. As long as you don’t encounter frequent power outages, you’re good to go with your heat pump systems. If you don’t know which system to choose, consider narrowing it down to your most comfortable option.

Heat Pumps vs. Electric Furnaces

Both heat pumps and electric furnaces use electricity to supply heat inside of your home. Using electric coils, an electric furnace generates heat that warms up your space. On the other hand, heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat outdoors and indoors.

In most cases, electric furnaces are 100% energy-efficient. However, you’ll need to pay almost three times more than a typical heat pump to provide the same heat energy.

Furthermore, your heat pump can provide both heating and cooling. You might need to look for alternative sources of cooling comfort with your electric furnace.

Which Heating System Should You Get for Your Home?

There’s not necessarily one option that’s better than the other. Even though both furnaces and heat pumps have their merits, your best heating system will vary depending on your situation.

Consider a heat pump if you come from a mild climate area. That way, your heat pump will efficiently transfer heat into your home rather than generating new heat energy. Moreover, you’ll enjoy increased energy efficiency with a heat pump than a furnace in such environments.

Alternatively, a furnace is a good option if you reside in a place that gets excessively cold in the winter. A heat pump might overwork to keep up in winter weather. Overworking increases energy consumption and, consequently, your utility bills. A furnace can generate heat and give more energy-efficient results in cold weather.

Heat pumps are more flexible in providing you with indoor comfort. Besides transferring heat in winter, heat pumps can also serve as air conditioners during the summer months.

Furnaces only generate heat for you in cold weather. You might need an alternative AC unit to cool your house during the warmer season.

Level 9 Heating & Cooling provides commercial HVAC services, air filtration systems, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers in Washington, MO. Contact our team for more information today!

Heating Repair Questions in Washington, MO Heating Repair Questions in Washington, MO

What Should You Ask Your HVAC Company After a Heating Repair?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on What Should You Ask Your HVAC Company After a Heating Repair?

Any heating repair is an excellent opportunity to learn more about your system. While the HVAC technician is at your house, they can provide you with all sorts of helpful advice. After a heating repair, your first priority is probably going to be enjoying your toasty, warm air. However, don’t forget to ask your technician these important questions.

What Was the Cause of the Problem?

One of the most important questions is simply asking what went wrong. You might not really care about the reason as long as your heater is working again. However, it’s still important to ask. Talking to your technician about the cause does more than just satisfy your curiosity. It also gives you a lot of insight into the state of your heating system. You can learn whether it happened due to manufacturer defects, general wear and tear, or other issues. When you know the cause of the problem, you can take steps to prepare for it again in the future or keep it from happening again. Learning about the cause of the problem can also help you see if there is a warranty in place for the issue.

What’s Your Payment Process Like?

Of course, a good technician will get you to approve the cost of repairs before doing anything, but there are still some things to ask after the repair. If you are paying upfront, remember to ask for a receipt. When paying in installments, take the time to learn how long you have to pay and what forms of payment the company will accept. Check to see if the company puts a warranty on their repairs, and see about any special promotions. You might be able to get a special deal for maintenance or other future service visits after your repairs.

How Did You Fix the Issue?

Usually, a heater repair technician will go over their proposed plan before they even start working on your system. However, do not be afraid to ask them for details after they finish the repairs. Even if the words might sound a little too technical, they still tell you a lot about your HVAC system. A good technician should be dedicated to educating their clients. They should be happy to explain what they were doing so that you can be confident that the problem is truly fixed.

Is This a Repair I Could Do Myself?

In some cases, your heater problem might be a frequent issue that’s likely to pop up again. Take the time to ask your technician if the repair is DIY-friendly. With their professional expertise, they know whether a job requires specialized knowledge and tools. For example, many homeowners can learn how to relight their own pilot light with just a little know-how. Your technician can let you know whether it is worth trying yourself or if you should just go ahead and give them a call when the issue happens again. Depending on how busy the technician is, they might even be willing to give you a few tips.

How Long Will Your Fix Last?

Sometimes, a heating repair is just a short-term fix. For example, if the technician cannot solve the problem until the part comes in, they might make a quick adjustment that will at least give you some warmth for the upcoming weeks. Your repair might also be a short-term solution if your system is old and will be replaced soon. Knowing how long your repair will last can help you make plans for the future. You can figure out whether you should be budgeting for a new system soon or expecting more repairs in a little while.

Are There Any Warning Signs I Should Look Out For?

If your system is likely to run into issues again soon, make sure the technician gives you some tips for what to look out for. Ask about what is likely to break first and what it will look like when the system breaks. This can help avoid confusion later on. Instead of wondering whether the weird smell or annoying noise is really that bad, you’ll know you should instantly call your HVAC company. Asking this question also helps you identify less noticeable problems that would otherwise just quietly cause problems in the background for months. This makes it easier to address issues that could increase your utility bill or damage your whole system.

How Can I Keep This From Happening Again?

After any big repair, one of your main priorities should be prevention. It is rare for an HVAC problem to happen spontaneously. Instead, it most frequently happens due to poor installation, infrequent maintenance, or other types of errors. Your HVAC technician can help give you tips on how to keep the issue from arising again. For example, a simple habit like changing your furnace filter regularly can keep your system from acting up again in the future.

Is My Heater in Good Shape for Its Age?

A heating repair is not the same as a full system inspection. However, the technician will still go over your system and take a close look at how it’s running during the repair. This can give them a lot of insight into how your heater is doing. You can ask them about the condition of your heater to learn whether it will need to be replaced soon. The technician can also let you know if there are any other fixes or little adjustments you should do. When asking about the overall condition of your HVAC system, be sure to bring up the ductwork too. Some technicians might not automatically discuss it when talking about your heater, but it has a big impact on your system’s efficiency. All this information can help you extend your system’s life or go ahead and start planning for your next heater.

When Does My Unit Need More Maintenance?

Even if you’re already on a regular HVAC maintenance schedule, repairs can confuse things. Some people make the mistake of assuming that their repair counts as maintenance even though the technician might have skipped essential maintenance steps like cleaning the coils. Make sure to ask the technician when to schedule your next maintenance. There is a chance that they went ahead and maintained the system, so you might be able to wait a full six months until the next necessary appointment. However, they might advise you to keep on with your regular maintenance schedule instead. That is also a good opportunity to find out about the HVAC company’s maintenance plans or cost-saving promotions.

If you need any heating repairs, turn to Level 9 Heating & Cooling. We’re always happy to answer any of our customers’ questions, so you can stay informed about your heating system. In addition to heating repairs, we also help with installations and maintenance on all sorts of heating and air conditioning systems. We serve Washington, St. Louis, and many surrounding areas and offer 24/7 emergency services. Give us a call today to schedule your service appointment.

Home Winterization in Washington, MO Home Winterization in Washington, MO

Preparing Your Heating System for the Winter

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Heating. No Comments on Preparing Your Heating System for the Winter

Now that winter has truly arrived, it’s imperative to ensure that your household is fully prepared for the cold season. One crucial part of this is making sure that your heating system is in good working condition, and properly prepared to handle the extra usage that will be necessary as the temperature drops.

If you fail to prepare your heating system, the extra pressure you’ll be putting on it will not only make it more likely to break down or struggle, but keeping it running will also cost you quite a bit of extra money in monthly energy bills. Fortunately, there are simple ways that you can winterize your furnace and ensure that you’re both staying warm and saving money this winter.

Furnace Maintenance

Keeping up with regular furnace maintenance is always important, but it is even more important during the cold months. These professional tune-ups allow your heating system to operate at peak energy efficiency, which will be crucial if you’re having to keep the thermostat cranked up all winter long.

During these maintenance visits, your heating technician will also be checking to see if any of the appliance’s components are nearly worn out or if there are any indicators of an upcoming breakdown. By getting ahead of these problems before they materialize, the technician will be able to help you avoid any major inconveniences in the near future. The last thing you want on your hands is a furnace breakdown in the middle of the winter. Scheduling one of these tune-ups is relatively inexpensive, and the amount of money and hassle it will save you afterward will make it more than worthwhile.

Clean Regularly

Another way you can winterize your heating system is by planning a day of cleaning in which you focus on a few key areas. There are a few specific cleaning tasks that will make it easier for your furnace to operate, and typically the easiest method is to do them all at once.

Start with your furnace itself, which can become dirtied or clogged with dust and other debris. Remove the access panel, and use a vacuum extension hose to clean the interior chamber. Next, you’ll want to clean the area directly around the furnace by removing any clutter or large objects. Keeping things near the heating system is a fire hazard and also makes it more difficult to circulate warm air effectively.

Another important thing to clean or replace is your furnace’s air filter. This filter protects the heating unit by trapping particles of dust and dirt before they can clog up the system. After a while, however, the filter will become dirty or clogged up itself. As a result, the furnace has to work harder to suck air through the filter, which worsens its energy efficiency and accumulates more wear and tear. This can, in turn, shorten the overall lifespan of the appliance.

To avoid this, all you need to do is check the filter regularly. If you’re able to clean it, do so, but if it becomes especially dirty, it would be wise to replace it with a new one. Try to remember to check the filter at the start of the cold season and on a monthly basis afterward.

Your last stop on your day of cleaning should be your home’s air vents. You likely have several of these vents in your household. If the interior of these vents is not cleaned regularly, dust, dirt, and debris will accumulate. In addition to worsening the overall quality of your indoor air, this also hampers your furnace’s ability to circulate warm air throughout the house. You can make sure this does not happen by simply visiting each vent, removing the protective cover and grille with a screwdriver, and using your vacuum’s extension hose to thoroughly clean it out.

Purchase a Humidifier

A large aspect of winterizing your heating system is simply finding ways to take some of the pressure off of it. Since you will probably be depending on it pretty frequently, any rest that you are able to give the appliance can make a major difference — both on your bills and the overall health of your furnace. One good way to remove some of this strain is by purchasing a humidifier.

You may have noticed that the air tends to be especially dry during winter, but you may not be aware that this actually causes your home to feel colder than it would if there was more moisture present. Oxygen needs this moisture to transfer heat around, so when it is dry, your furnace has to work harder to compensate for that lost heat. A humidifier will add moisture to your indoor air, which will make it feel warmer without needing to crank up the thermostat. You can choose between an in-line version, which would be installed onto your furnace, or a separate unit, which would be placed somewhere else inside your home.

Add Attic Insulation

If your attic is not properly insulated, it can result in a lot of extra strain on your heating system, especially during the cold season. This is because, without that extra barrier that insulation provides, your attic can be a major source of not only warm air escaping but also cold air seeping into the house. Since heat rises, this will continue happening all winter long. Your furnace has to work hard to compensate for this loss of heat, which can be damaging to the system and increase the operational cost.

The most common type of attic insulation is the spray foam variety, which is relatively expensive and does need to be installed by professionals. However, it is very effective at keeping warmth trapped inside. If you prefer to install the insulation yourself, you will need to go with either blanket insulation or radiant and reflective insulation, though you should only attempt to do so if you have the necessary knowledge and tools.

Since being founded in 1975, the team at Level 9 Heating & Cooling has been providing top-of-the-line HVAC services to residents of Washington, MO, and the surrounding areas. We offer our customers not only high-quality heating repair, maintenance, and installation services, but also cooling, indoor air quality, and geothermal services as well. Our core values are centered around the things that we believe are most important: trustworthy character and quality work that you can count on. We also take pride in our luxury customer service, and we always do whatever possible to cater to your personal needs. You can rest assured that when you call us up, you won’t be stuck waiting. You will receive quick responses, exceptional service, and honest communication.

Your household comfort needs are important, and you should only entrust them to local professionals who you can rely on. Give us a call today, and get your first appointment scheduled with a friendly and skilled member of our HVAC team.

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