New Furnace Installations in Older Homes Require More Information
If you don’t do your research, a new furnace update in a historic home easily becomes a nightmare. Don’t worry though – at Douglas Cooling & Heating we’re unafraid of the challenge! Our professionals train to expertly assess and install modern equipment, like a new furnace, in older and historic homes.
For example, before you make any decisions, consider the insulation and ductwork available. Also review fuel, speed types and the restrictions of preservation rules. We encourage you to discuss all of these factors with our team before a new furnace installation.
Update Insulation During New Furnace Installation
Many older homes are not well-insulated. Even if insulation is present, it may be inefficient or unsafe for a new heating unit. An upgraded furnace requires modern insulation materials, so one of Douglas Cooling & Heating certified technicians will need to inspect your current insulation.
Douglas Cooling & Heating is equipped to recommend adequate insulation so you get the most value from your furnace upgrade.
Ductwork Available to Your New Furnace
The current heating system technology available today is vastly different. It can require more care when installing an updated furnace in your historic home. Our team helps you with the installation process, first with a current ductwork inspection.
Second, a modern furnace may require additional ductwork throughout your home. This prevents “cold spots” in the future.
Our team suggests which furnace is right for your historic home and determines what modifications may be necessary to customize your new heating system. If additional ductwork is necessary or if the current ductwork needs repairs, we notify you and make adjustments to fit your budget and heating needs. Our NATE-certified installers engage in continuous training to provide the best experience for you.
Fuel Types for a New Furnace
When choosing a furnace for your historic home, consider the fuel source. Older furnaces typically use oil, but newer furnaces have more efficient options available. A popular and cost-effective choice is a furnace powered by natural gas.
New Furnace Speed Options
Typically, older furnaces use a single-stage blower with only one speed. One speed makes it difficult for a furnace to achieve and maintain warmth throughout a historic home. This means higher energy bills and forces the furnace to operate harder than necessary.
New models feature two-stage blowers, so they operate at either full or half speed. Two stages of heating offer better temperature regulation and reduce the energy used to heat your home.
Variable-speed furnaces offer even more energy efficiency and greater accuracy with temperature control. We encourage you to consult with us if you plan to update your thermostat as well.
Certain thermostats work better with single-speed models versus variable-speed furnaces. Use our expertise to save yourself hassles and to pair your new furnace with the right thermostat for its design.
Historic Preservation Rules
Historic homes are sometimes governed by preservation rules intended to maintain the home and neighborhood historic integrity. If your historic home falls within these preservation rules, seek approval of upgrades and changes to the home by a historic preservation committee or municipal authority.
Check to see if a furnace installation interferes with any preservation rules before you make any decisions. When you’re ready to research a new furnace in your historic home, contact Douglas Cooling & Heating.
Our heating and cooling experts assess your home’s insulation and ductwork prior to installation. They also recommend any steps to take beforehand. We ensure your upgraded furnace works well with your home so you can enjoy warm temperatures throughout your historic house.
