Gas Heating & Furnace Services
The winters in Minnesota are downright frigid, but many homeowners counter the outdoor chill by seeking indoor refuge with gas heating systems. Gas heating is an energy-efficient alternative to electricity heating, with a range of benefits for keeping your indoor air comfortable. Whether you already own a heating system fueled by either natural or propane gas, or you need a heating system replacement, Bloomington Heating & Air provides all-encompassing gas heating services, including gas furnace installation, maintenance, and repair services.
*Bloomington Heating & Air does not service boilers, hydronic, attic, or high velocity systems.
Types Of Gas Heating Systems
The two main options for gas heating systems are natural gas and propane gas. The most common heating systems fueled by either natural or propane gas is a forced-air system using a furnace, followed by radiant heating systems, and a radiant system used in combination with gas-fueled space heaters. Gas heating efficiency is measured in annual fuel use efficiency (AFUE). This is the amount of heat output produced compared to the amount of energy consumed during heat production. The higher the AFUE, the greater the system’s efficiency as a whole.
Natural Gas Heating
Natural gas is methane pressurized into a liquid state. It burns more cleanly than its fossil fuel counterparts with lower emissions. Natural gas is often found in whole-home furnaces that use ductwork, space or wall-mounted heaters, and fireplaces.
Propane Gas Heating
You may hear the terms liquefied petroleum gas, LP gas, or LPG but all of these terms refer to propane gas. Propane gas a fossil fuel in its simplest form, derived from a hydrocarbon found in natural gas and petroleum refinement.
Advantages Of Gas Heating
Faster Warming Output
As soon as the burner in the gas furnace begins to run, the system produces maximum heat output. Electric heat takes time to warm up and transport hot air into the home. Gas also has a higher heating temperature — propane heat reaches 130 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit as it’s released into the home.
More Affordable Operating Expense
For Minnesota residents, gas-fueled heating systems are often cheaper to operate than electricity-based systems. Natural gas powered systems are less expensive to operate than propane gas systems.
Disadvantages Of Gas Heating
Additional Maintenance
The venting and combustible fuel required for gas heating systems increase the importance of scheduling regular heating system check-ups throughout the system’s lifespan. Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance service is necessary for preventing exposure to dangerous byproducts of gas combustion as well as prolonging the life of your gas heating system.
Shorter Lifespan
On average, gas furnaces have a functional lifespan of 10 to 20 years — half of the lifespan of most electric furnaces. But Bloomington Heating & Air's heating services — whether maintenance check-ups or furnace repair — can serve to prolong the life of your system for years of toasty indoor air ahead.
Upfront Expense
The venting requirements of gas heating systems make the upfront costs — including installation — more than that of electric systems. The initial cost is offset by the efficiency of the gas system, which lowers the cost of utility bills.
How To Boost Efficiency With Gas Heating
While gas heating is generally more efficient than electric heating, there are a few ways you can increase the efficiency further. From questions about how a gas heating installation would work in a home or business or to schedule a maintenance appointment, Bloomington Heating & Air has you covered.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is a win-win for residences with gas heating systems. Homeowners avoid the need for costly repairs by addressing any issues early and extending the system’s viability. When our technicians perform bi-annual maintenance on your residential gas heating system, you save energy and money, but more importantly, you have peace of mind that everyone in your home is safe from carbon monoxide and other dangerous byproducts of gas combustion. We will ensure that the air vents are unblocked, the ductwork is in good shape, and any cracks found in the heat exchanger are immediately repaired.
Seal Ductwork Leaks
Most homes use forced-air heating systems and ductwork regardless of the fuel source. But leaking and/or poorly connected ductwork can lose up to 30 percent of heated air. Sealing and repairing leaky ductwork not only saves money — it also facilitates efficient system function by preventing the system from working overtime to compensate for the air loss.
Cover Windows & Doors With Plastic
Windows are wonderful for bringing in natural light and heat during day, but they’re also responsible for up to 25 percent of residential heat loss. Covering windows and unused exterior doors, such as patio doors, with clear plastic film reduces the rate of heat loss and lowers utility costs.