Month: November 2023

When winter’s bitter chill sets in and your old furnace starts acting up, you may find yourself facing the inevitable question: Is it time to install a new furnace?

There are many driving forces behind this decision, whether it’s due to your existing furnace finally breaking down, the increasing expenses associated with frequent repairs, or your desire to enjoy the benefits of a newer model with modern features.

No matter the reason, you’re still probably wondering how you’re going to pay for it. Help is available; you just have to know where to look!

In this blog from Novak Heating and Cooling, we’ll explore some of your payment options and remind you why a new furnace installation in your Cedar Rapids, Iowa, home is worth every penny.

How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?

Furnace prices can vary widely depending on the type of furnace you choose.

Natural gas furnaces are a popular choice for their energy efficiency and consistent heating capabilities. The typical gas furnace cost is anywhere from $2,500 to $7,500. Additional expenses may include the installation of a gas line and ductwork.

Electric furnaces are generally more affordable upfront compared to gas furnaces. The installation cost for an electric furnace can vary from $1,000 to $6,000. Keep in mind that electric furnaces tend to have higher operating costs over time due to electricity rates.

Oil furnaces are another option, especially in areas without access to natural gas. The cost of purchasing and installing a new oil furnace typically falls between $5,000 and $10,000. Additionally, you’ll need to consider the cost of oil deliveries and maintenance.

Propane furnaces are an alternative in areas where natural gas is unavailable. The cost of a propane furnace, including installation, can range from $2,500 to $7,500. Similar to oil furnaces, propane furnaces require propane deliveries, and maintenance costs should be factored in.

It’s important to note that these cost ranges are approximate and can vary based on factors such as furnace efficiency, brand, labor costs, and any additional features or upgrades. To get an accurate estimate for your specific situation, consult with an HVAC contractor who can assess your needs and provide detailed pricing information.

How to Pay for a New Furnace Installation

Now that you have a general idea of your potential furnace installation cost, let’s explore your options for financing a new electric or natural gas furnace installation.

Personal Savings

Using your personal savings is often the most cost-effective way to pay for installing a new furnace. If you have enough funds set aside for this home improvement, it can help you save money by avoiding interest charges and monthly payments associated with loans or financing plans.

Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit

If you own your home and have built up equity, you may consider a home equity loan or line of credit to finance your new furnace. These options typically offer lower interest rates than personal loans or credit cards. However, keep in mind that using your home as collateral means you’re risking your home if you can’t repay the loan.

Manufacturer or Retailer Financing

Many furnace manufacturers and retailers offer financing options to help you spread your furnace installation cost out over time. These financing plans often come with competitive interest rates and flexible terms. Be sure to inquire about any special offers or financing deals that may be available.

Government Rebates and Incentives

Some government programs and utility companies offer rebates and incentives to encourage homeowners to upgrade to energy-efficient heating systems. These incentives can significantly reduce your furnace installation costs. It’s important to check for available programs in your area.

HVAC Company Rebates

HVAC company rebates can help you offset the upfront cost of purchasing and installing energy-efficient HVAC systems. They not only promote energy conservation but also provide financial incentives for you to make more environmentally friendly choices. To take advantage of these rebates, you should check with your HVAC contractor or the manufacturer of the equipment.

5 Benefits of Buying a New Furnace

Upgrading your home’s equipment and appliances is an inevitable part of homeownership. While it may not be the most exciting task, the benefits are certainly worth the effort. Here are some of the biggest benefits of a new furnace installation:

1. Improved Energy Efficiency: New high-efficiency furnace models utilize advanced technologies and boast higher AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings, ensuring that you get more heat from the same amount of fuel, resulting in lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
2. Consistent Heating: Older furnaces often struggle to provide even heating throughout your home, leading to hot and cold spots. A new furnace unit distributes heat more evenly, ensuring every room stays comfortable.
3. Enhanced Indoor Comfort: Modern furnaces feature advanced components like variable-speed blowers, allowing precise control over temperature and humidity levels. This creates a more comfortable living environment and improves indoor air quality.
4. Reduced Maintenance Costs: Older furnaces often require frequent repairs and maintenance to operate efficiently. Newer models come with longer warranties and are built to last, reducing the need for constant repairs and lowering maintenance costs.
5. Advanced Features: Many modern furnaces are equipped with advanced features such as programmable thermostats, zone heating, and humidity control, allowing you to customize your comfort and maximize energy savings.

Novak Has Your Back for All Your Furnace Needs

When it’s time for a new furnace installation or replacement, you can count on Novak Heating and Cooling for top-notch service.

We understand that furnace installation is a significant investment, and that’s why we offer various rebates and special offers to benefit our customers. These promotions change with the season and span everything from a furnace to a heat pump or an air conditioner, so be sure to check back regularly!

Novak Heating and Cooling also takes pride in being the exclusive Carrier factory dealer in Cedar Rapids. With this distinction, you can have complete confidence that you’re receiving high-quality products from a reputable service provider.

When it’s time to replace your heating system, don’t hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable heating and air conditioning team. We’re here to provide furnace installation, furnace maintenance, and furnace repair services to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable, even on the coldest days.

Contact your friends at Novak Heating and Cooling today for a free estimate or to schedule an appointment.

Whether you live in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, or anywhere else that experiences cold temperatures, you’re well aware of the harsh winters that can make life uncomfortable. The dry winter air can leave your skin feeling itchy, your throat scratchy, and even impact the overall comfort of your home. To address these issues, many homeowners turn to whole house humidifiers. But do whole house humidifiers work? Are they really worth their price tag?

In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of humidifying your home and why you should schedule a whole house humidifier installation with Novak Heating and Cooling before the mercury really drops.

What is a Whole Home Humidifier?

You’re probably already familiar with a portable humidifier that you place on a bedside table, oftentimes when you’re under the weather. The primary difference between whole house and portable humidifiers lies in their coverage, as whole house humidifiers are integrated into your furnace or HVAC system in order to maintain consistent humidity levels throughout an entire house. Meanwhile, portable humidifiers are standalone devices designed for humidifying specific rooms or areas.

Whole house humidifiers come in various types, including bypass humidifiers, fan-powered humidifiers, and steam humidifiers, each with its unique features and advantages.

Bypass Humidifiers

Bypass humidifiers function by directing a portion of the warm air in your home through a water-soaked pad, allowing the air to absorb moisture. The air is then distributed throughout your house via the heating system’s return air duct. These humidifiers are cost-effective and typically require minimal maintenance.

Fan-Powered Humidifiers

Fan-powered humidifiers operate similarly to bypass humidifiers but include an additional fan to enhance moisture distribution. They are particularly suitable for larger homes and provide greater control over humidity levels.

Steam Humidifiers

A whole house steam humidifier generates steam, which is introduced directly into your home’s air supply. This method is highly effective at maintaining precise humidity levels and is especially well-suited for homes with specific humidity requirements.

Benefits of Installing a Whole House Humidifier

Next, let’s explore the benefits of having a whole house humidifier installed.

• Consistent Comfort: Whole house humidifiers ensure a comfortable and consistent indoor environment by maintaining an optimal humidity level in every room.
• Health Improvement: They can help alleviate dry air-related health issues such as dry skin, itchy eyes, and respiratory problems by providing a healthier and more comfortable living space.
• Energy Efficiency: By making a room feel warmer at lower temperatures, they can reduce the need for excessive heating during the winter months, potentially leading to reduced energy costs.
• Preservation of Your Home and Furnishings: Whole house humidifiers help prevent wood floors, furniture, and musical instruments from cracking or warping due to excessive dryness, thus protecting your investments.
• Mold and Mildew Prevention: By discouraging the growth of mold and mildew, they contribute to a cleaner and healthier indoor environment for you and your family.
• Enhanced Respiratory Health: Maintaining the right humidity levels can reduce the risk of respiratory issues and improve overall respiratory health, particularly for those with asthma or allergies.
• Reduced Transmission of Airborne Viruses: Adequate humidity levels can hinder the survival and transmission of airborne viruses, promoting a healthier living space.

Is Buying a Whole House Humidifier Worth It?

During the winter months, indoor humidity levels can drop significantly, often falling below the recommended range of 30% to 50%. This drop occurs because cold air can’t hold as much moisture as warm air, and as you heat your home, the relative humidity decreases.

This dry indoor air can have several adverse effects on your health and home, making a whole house humidifier a very worthwhile investment.

How Much Does a Whole Home Humidifier Cost?

The cost of a whole home humidifier can vary depending on factors such as the type of humidifier, the size of your home, installation complexity, and additional features. Typically, prices range from a few hundred dollars for a basic bypass humidifier to over a thousand dollars for a steam humidifier with advanced features.

Professional installation costs, which are crucial for proper integration with your HVAC system, can also vary. To make this investment more manageable, it’s worth noting that Novak Heating and Cooling offers special offers and rebates that can help offset some of the costs associated with installing a whole home humidifier. These incentives can make the decision to improve your indoor air quality and overall comfort even more attractive.

What You Need to Know About Owning a Whole House Humidifier

While the advantages of having whole house humidifiers are clear, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of hiring an HVAC professional for your whole house humidifier installation.

Installing a humidifier is a complex undertaking that demands a deep understanding of your home’s heating and cooling system. The experienced technicians at Novak Heating and Cooling possess the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out the installation efficiently and effectively.

And, just like any other home system, whole house humidifiers require regular maintenance to function properly. Novak Heating and Cooling offers comprehensive humidifier maintenance services, ensuring that your system remains in optimal condition, continues to perform at its best, and delivers the comfort and air quality benefits you desire.

During a whole house humidifier maintenance appointment, your HVAC technician will:

• Inspect the humidifier unit and components for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
• Clean and replace the water panel, filter, or other humidifier components as needed to ensure proper operation.
• Check and calibrate the humidistat or control panel to maintain accurate humidity levels.
• Inspect and clean the water line to prevent clogs or buildup.
• Test the entire humidification system to verify that it is functioning efficiently and distributing moisture evenly throughout the home.

Schedule Your Humidifier Installation with Novak Today

If you’re thinking about getting a whole house humidifier for your home in the Cedar Rapids, IA, area, Novak Heating and Cooling is the right company for the job. Our team specializes in various indoor air quality solutions, including humidifier installation, maintenance, and repair services.

Don’t wait until the dry winter air leads to discomfort and health concerns. Reach out to Novak Heating and Cooling today to schedule an appointment for a humidifier installation that will significantly improve your comfort, health, and overall quality of life during our challenging winters.