Bounds Heating & Air

Serving Homeowners Throughout Northern Florida and Beyond

352-472-2761

Category: Furnace

Should I Upgrade to a Two-Stage or Modulating Furnace?

Trying to find the furnace that is best for your home can be a complicated process. That’s why we compiled this list of pros and cons to ensure you get the heater that’s right for you!

MODULATING FURNACE

Modulating furnaces are perfect for homeowners who tend to be picky about their heat settings. These systems are designed to adjust their flame in small increments to give you tons of options regarding how much you want to heat your home.

Pros

Greater energy efficiency- Modulating furnaces are the most energy-efficient heaters on the market. Because this system can adjust its flame in slight increments, it can reach an incredible AFUE rating of up to 98%, which means that for every dollar worth of fuel consumed, 98 cents goes toward heating your home. With a rating like that, you should start to see a noticeable drop in the cost of your energy bills right away.

Increased control- No other furnace type has nearly the same amount of temperature control as the modulating furnace. These units allow you to keep your home within one to two degrees of the temperature of your choice. Modulating systems have adjustable heat settings and often come equipped with a variable-speed blower, which will significantly reduce hot and cold spots in your home.

Cons

Costly- These furnaces are the most expensive on the market. While they’re the best at what they do, not everyone can throw as much as $10,000 toward a furnace installation.

Is it Right for Me?

The modulating furnace is an excellent investment for those who aren’t looking to move anytime soon. The energy savings from this system often pay for themselves in anywhere from 3.5 to 5 years, after which you should have at least 15 more years of ongoing heating savings.

TWO-STAGE FURNACE

As the name suggests, a two-stage furnace’s burner runs at two different levels. For example, these burners can run on high heat during the winter and low heat for more moderate days.

Pros

Cheaper option – The two-stage furnace’s most significant advantage over the modulating furnace is its cost. On average, a two-stage will cost around a couple thousand less with insulation than a modulating unit.

Cons

Less Control- Two-stage furnaces do not have as much control of the temperature as modulating furnaces. While this heater will still eliminate hot and cold spots as well as temperature swings, it doesn’t provide nearly the same amount of control over the temperature as a modulating heater.

Decreased Efficiency- While a two-stage heater is more efficient than other models, it simply can’t compare to the modulating furnace as the increased control of the burners allows you to operate at lower capacities instead of having to choose between hot and cold.

Is it Right for Me?

If you’re not 100% you have found your forever home, the two-stage furnace is a better option. This system combines the best of both worlds by providing you with cheaper up-front costs while still increasing the value of your home and heating your house well.

Ready to upgrade your furnace? Bounds Heating & Air has experienced technicians who can handle whatever heater you decide is right for your home. Contact us online or give us a call at (352) 472-2761 to get your installation scheduled today!

6 Pro Tips for Troubleshooting Your Heater

While Florida’s winter is relatively moderate, it is still nice to have your heat available when you want it. Finding that your heater isn’t working well (or not running altogether) can be stressful, but you may not need to call an HVAC technician just yet.

First, try some of these tips to troubleshoot what may be happening — then give the pros at Bounds Heating & Air a call:

HEATER NOT WORKING

There can be a litany of reasons behind why your heater isn’t running, and not all necessitate you hiring a professional to handle the issue.

Check the Thermostat

The first move you should make is to check your thermostat. While you may assume that your thermostat’s settings are what they’re supposed to be, you should still make sure it is set to “heat.” For the heater to switch on, the temperature on your thermostat may need to be at least five degrees above room temperature.

Also, check to see if your thermostat is set to “auto” versus “on.” If it’s set to “auto,” the heater should start up automatically when your home’s temperature drops a few degrees below the temperature specified on the thermostat. If your thermostat is set to “on,” then your system’s fan will continue circulating air even if your heater isn’t heating it. This setting can make it feel like cold or room temperature air is coming from your air vents, so you may want to switch to “auto.”

It’s best to make sure your settings are correct to avoid the embarrassment of hiring a technician only to find out nothing was wrong.

Check the Circuit Breaker

If your thermostat settings are fine, you should check your home’s breaker panel and look for the circuit that controls your heater’s indoor unit. If you own a heat pump, also check the circuit associated with the outdoor unit. If you find that the breaker has been set to the “Off” position, or it’s in the middle, you should test your breaker by flipping it back and forth. After flipping the breaker, make sure that it is placed in the “On” position.

Flipping the switch will restart the circuit that controls the heater’s indoor unit. If it’s still not working despite resetting your circuit breaker, you might have an issue with the wiring in the circuit or the circuit breaker itself. In that case, it’s better to hire an experienced professional to fix your problem.

Check the Furnace Door

As a safety precaution, some furnaces won’t run unless their door is closed securely. Double-check that the door is in place by opening it and firmly shutting it.

HEATER STRUGGLING TO WARM YOUR HOME

If you turned your heating system back on for the winter and found it struggling to warm your home effectively, the problem may not be as severe as you might think.

Replace Your Clogged Filter

If your furnace is struggling to produce the usual amount of heat, this could signify that your furnace’s filter is clogged. This common maintenance chore is a relatively easy fix and is an excellent way to improve your air quality.

Air filters typically last for up to 90 days, but heavy HVAC system use can clog a filter in as little as 30 to 60 days. Replace the filter with a new one but make sure your filter is pointed in the right direction because that could hurt its effectiveness.

Clear and Clean the Space Around Your Furnace

Did you know that heaters require proper airflow and ventilation to function well? If your heater isn’t working well, you might need to declutter and clean the surrounding area.

If the area around your furnace is surrounded by objects, it can hurt how effectively your home is heated. Not only can clutter around your furnace affect your heating, but it also represents a potential fire hazard.

Regularly cleaning the area surrounding your heater is a great way to maintain its health while removing the flammable items from the site. Dust and lint also pose a fire hazard and can cause clogs sooner than usual, which requires you to replace your filter more often.

Check Your Vents

Blocked vents could be hurting the heat flow in your home. It would be best if you walked through your home, checking all your ducts to make sure that they’re unblocked. You should remove any piece of furniture or debris blocking the openings of your vents to allow the heat to flow freely throughout your home.

If all your attempts to troubleshoot your heating system fail, call (352) 472-2761 to have the experienced professionals at Bounds Heating & Air handle all your HVAC issues.

Yes, You Still Need to Tune Up Your Furnace In Florida: Here’s Why

Down in Florida, we typically find ourselves relying on our air conditioners much more than our furnaces. That being said, even if you don’t run your furnace that often, it’s still important to keep up with its routine preventative maintenance.

WHY IS FURNACE MAINTENANCE IMPORTANT?

Preventative maintenance for your furnace is important for three main reasons:

1. Routine maintenance makes your furnace safer.

This is especially true if you own a gas- or oil-burning furnace. These types of furnaces burn fuel to produce heat. That process of burning fuel (combustion) produces some toxic flue gases, such as carbon monoxide.

During a routine maintenance appointment, a technician will check your furnace to make sure that those toxic flue gases are being safely vented outdoors and are not mixing with your indoor air. The technician will also inspect your furnace for any fuel leaks that could create a fire hazard.

2. Maintenance helps reduce wear and tear on your furnace.

Even a correctly installed, well-built furnace needs to be serviced and adjusted every so often. As the machinery whirs and runs, parts can lose lubrication, move out of alignment, or loosen.

That type of wear and tear makes your furnace a less effective machine, and it will end up working harder to compensate for its declining performance. The harder the components work, the faster they wear out, which means you’ll end up replacing parts (or even the entire system) much sooner than you’d otherwise have to.

3. Your heating system operates more efficiently with routine maintenance.

As mentioned above, a neglected system with wear and tear has to work harder to perform its job. This means that your furnace will use more energy to warm your home than it should have to. By keeping up with routine maintenance, you’ll notice that your energy bills don’t jump up during the colder months of the year.

Gainesville Preventative HVAC Maintenance

At Bounds Heating & Air, our technicians take pride in providing dependable service and thorough HVAC maintenance. Backed by over three decades of experience, we are Gainesville’s go-to for heating and cooling services. Contact us online or give us a call at (352) 472-2761.

7 Common HVAC Terms That Every Homeowner Should Know

Does it feel like you’re reading a different language whenever you try to read anything about your home’s heating and cooling system? We understand. At one point, all of those terms were new to us too. For this reason, we want to provide you with a glossary, of sorts, that explains some essential terms that every homeowner should know about their heating and cooling system.

Ready to learn how to speak “HVAC?” Let’s get started.

1. HVAC

Let’s start with the term HVAC. HVAC is an acronym for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. People often will refer to an entire heating and cooling system (the heater, air conditioner, and ductwork) as an HVAC system for short.

2. AFUE

AFUE (Average Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is a term for the measurement of a gas or oil furnace’s efficiency. AFUE is a number. That number is the percentage of the amount of fuel energy used to heat your home.

For instance, if a furnace’s AFUE is 80, then 80% of the fuel it uses will be used for heating your home, while 20% of the fuel will go to waste (80% + 20% = 100%). An energy-efficient furnace will have a really high AFUE, meaning that almost 100% of the fuel it uses will be used to heat your home, and only a small percentage of the fuel will go to waste.

3. SEER

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the rating that describes how efficient an air conditioner or heat pump is. The SEER is calculated by dividing the unit’s total cooling power by the total energy used to power it over one year. This equation takes into account temperature differences throughout the year. Taking those differences into account is important because your AC works much harder during July than January.

4. HSPF

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is similar to SEER and AFUE, only it applies to heat pumps when they’re heating a home. To calculate a heat pump’s HSPF, you divide the unit’s total heating power by the total energy used to power it over one year. In this way, HSPF takes seasonal temperature differences into account.

5. Condenser

Your air conditioning system has two major components: the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is called the condenser, that metal box that sits outside with a fan inside of it. Whether you own a heat pump, a ductless mini-split, or a traditional AC and furnace, the air conditioner has a condenser located outdoors, typically in the yard, on the roof, or on a balcony.

The condenser contains a coil with refrigerant that has just absorbed heat from your indoor air. The condenser’s main role is to release all that heat outdoors. For this reason, the condenser needs adequate room for ventilation on all sides and especially on top, where its fan is blowing out the most warm air.

6. Evaporator Coil

Air conditioners and heat pumps have two coils: one is in the condenser, mentioned above, and the other is the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is located indoors.

Just like the condenser coil, the evaporator coil contains refrigerant. Hot indoor air from your home blows over this coil, and the refrigerant absorbs the heat from the air. The “warmed up” refrigerant moves along a line from the evaporator coil out to the outdoor condenser coil, where it can release that heat outside.

7. Heat Exchanger

Heat exchangers are a crucial component in gas or oil furnaces. Here’s why:

  • While burning fuel, a furnace creates toxic flue gases and combustion products, such as carbon monoxide. These things are hazardous to breathe, so you don’t want them mixing with your “breathing air.”
  • The heat exchanger is a thin, metal shield that acts as a barrier between your breathing air and the hot air that gets exposed to flue gases and toxic byproducts that result from your furnace burning fuel.
  • Because the heat exchanger is made of metal, it transfers the heat from the “unhealthy” air to your indoor air, while keeping out all the harmful things you shouldn’t breathe.
  • Consequently, your indoor air gets heated safely, and the flue gases and pollutants on the other side of the heat exchanger get vented outside your home where they can dissipate.

Over time, condensation can cause the heat exchanger to rust. This can lead to cracks as the metal expands and contracts from warming up and cooling down. A cracked heat exchanger needs to be taken seriously, as any breaks in the barrier can allow harmful gases and particles to mix with your indoor air.

At Bounds Heating & Air, we’re committed to providing you with top-quality HVAC repairs, maintenance, and installations. Give us a call at (352) 472-2761 or contact us online today!

Are You Operating Your Furnace Safely?

Modern furnaces are engineered with a variety of features and redundancies to ensure safe operation and reduce untoward incidents involving gas lines and fire. As homeowners fire up their heating systems during the colder months, it’s important to keep in mind a few safety pointers to make sure your furnace runs safely and efficiently throughout the season.

Our HVAC repair experts at Bounds Heating & Air have compiled a shortlist of reminders about the proper way to safely operate your furnace below.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” rings just as true when it comes to your heating and cooling system. There’s no better way to guarantee safety than to have a professional come in and perform a full inspection of your furnace. These routine procedures are typically completed before the heating season begins, but you can choose to avoid the pre-winter rush and schedule a maintenance visit a few days into it.

Consider having your annual or seasonal inspections include air conditioning repair and maintenance as well. Your cooling system works hand in hand with your furnace in making your home comfortable, and keeping it in excellent condition will contribute to the quality and performance of the entire system.

Carbon Monoxide Levels

Blocked flue pipes are a potential carbon monoxide (CO) hazard. CO is an odorless and colorless gas that can cause disorientation, respiratory problems, and in the worst cases, death. Luckily, furnaces have a standard built-in carbon monoxide detector to alert you to any leaks. Having these detectors regularly checked, maintained, and repaired is essential to overall home safety.

Filter Changes

Over time, furnace filters will get congested with soot and smoke. Dirty filters reduce airflow to your vents and can cause your heating bills to increase. Cleaning or changing your filters at least once every quarter should always be part of your regular HVAC maintenance schedule to ensure your furnace performs as it should.

This winter, turn to Bounds Heating & Air for your heating needs. We’re the number one provider of HVAC products, repair, and maintenance. Give us a call at (352) 278-9123 or fill out our contact form. We serve clients in Lake City, FL.

5 Things to Consider When Buying a New Furnace

Like a house and a car, a heating system is a major investment for most families in Gainesville, FL. If you are in the market for a new heating unit, you have probably spent a fair amount of time researching already. This ensures that you are prepared to purchase the most energy-efficient heating system in the event that your current unit suddenly quits working.

When Should I Replace My Furnace?

Despite their high quality, heating systems will eventually need to be replaced. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a furnace typically lasts between 15-30 years before you must replace it. The length of time varies based on brand and furnace quality.

When you believe it is time to replace your furnace, consider the following:

1. Types of Furnace Sources

It’s important to consider how the fuel your furnace uses impacts your daily life when buying a new furnace, as each of them has their own benefits and disadvantages. There are three types of furnaces you should know about: gas, oil, and electric. Electric furnaces are popular since almost every home has a connection to local electricity, but that doesn’t mean they’re the most efficient. The most efficient source for a furnace is oftentimes natural gas. However, if you do not have a natural gas line, you should factor in this additional installation expense.

2. Choosing the Right Size

The size of your furnace matters when buying a new one; a small furnace will overwork itself, raising your energy bills and possibly requiring premature maintenance. The bigger one you buy, the more it will have to adjust itself in order to maintain the desired temperature. It will switch off when it overshoots and start up again when the temperature drops.

3. Installation Ease

There are labor costs that are additional to the actual cost of purchasing a new furnace. Depending on what utilities and heating infrastructure already exist in your home, you may be looking at additional costs on top of the actual furnace. If you are replacing an older furnace, there may be structural home changes to account for.

4. Maintenance Expectations

One more thing you should consider when choosing a new furnace is maintenance. While it may not be top of your mind when purchasing the unit, you will need to know what is required to keep it working for years. You can maintain your HVAC system by taking minor actions like making sure the vents and air filters are properly cleaned and replaced on a regular basis.

5. Your Replacement Company

At Bounds Heating & Air, we know that replacing your furnace is not always an expense you were looking forward to making. That is why we know it is important that you weigh your options and choose a furnace that is right for your needs and your home. We hope that you keep Bounds Heating & Air in mind for your furnace replacement or furnace repair needs!

What Is the Difference Between a Furnace & a Boiler?

The difference between a furnace and a boiler is that they operate in markedly different ways. A furnace heats air, and then a blower motor moves the warmed air through the home’s duct system. On the other hand, a boiler heats water, which then flows through a network of pipes in the home. As the water flows, it generates heat throughout the home. The best way to remember the difference between a furnace and a boiler is to associate one with air and one with water.

The Difference Between a Furnace and a Boiler

Another difference between these systems is the type of maintenance required. The air filter of a furnace needs to be changed or cleaned anywhere from once a month to once a quarter. The maintenance of boilers is entirely different. These systems need to have excess air bled. Although the time to bleed the system varies from unit to unit, improperly heated rooms are usually a sign that it’s time for maintenance. These heating systems have a downside and an upside. The advantage is that these systems can heat various zones in the house. As a result, you can heat only the areas needed and save money on utility bills. The disadvantage is that they tend to increase humidity levels in the home. To reduce these higher humidity levels, you can run a humidifier in some rooms or have a separate humidifier attached to the system.

Does a Boiler or a Furnace Last Longer?

There are a number of reasons why the boiler has remained competitive despite furnaces being by far the most popular type of home heating system in the U.S. For example, boilers typically require fewer maintenance repairs, allow homeowners to lower their energy bills and create heat without blowing dust around. Additionally, they tend to last longer than furnaces. Furnaces typically last 15 to 20 years. It is possible to have the same heating system for up to 30 years, allowing an entire generation to grow up in the same house.

HVAC Services & Products at Bounds Heating & Air

At Bounds Heating & Air, we offer a wide array of HVAC services, including the installation of energy-efficient HVAC systems, energy audits, HVAC repairs, duct cleaning, air quality products, and preventative maintenance plans for both commercial and residential needs. Our goal is to keep you cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. If you have a sudden breakdown, you can count on us with our 24/7 emergency repair service. With just a phone call, we’ll quickly send out one of our knowledgeable service technicians after hours, weekends, and holidays.

All of our service technicians carry the prestigious NATE certification and have in-depth knowledge of both new and older HVAC systems. You can feel confident that they will arrive with the skills and tools needed to get the job done right. We also offer a 100 percent guarantee on all work performed.

Why Choose Bounds Heating & Air Inc?

In order to help provide our customers with cost-effective HVAC solutions, we offer a variety of Internet coupons, discounts, and rebates on select systems and services. Along with our existing competitive prices, these special offers are additional ways to save money. For those who prefer to keep more cash in their bank account or credit lines open, our flexible financing plans are the ideal alternative. Enjoy the comfort of a new HVAC system with our low-interest rates. Be sure to visit our website for the latest offerings. If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, you’ll find we carry and install top brands for furnaces, boilers, hybrid systems, heat pumps, and ductless systems.

Looking to install a new heating system in your home? Call Bounds Heating & Air Inc today at (352) 472-2761 or contact us online to get started!

Newberry
25645 West
Newberry Road
Newberry, FL 32669
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Phone Number
352-472-2761

Gainesville
3205 Southwest
40th Boulevard, Ste A
Gainesville, FL 32607
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