Furnace Installation and Replacement in Baton Rouge, LA
When you think of Louisiana, you aren’t alone when you imagine temperatures over 90 degrees and 100% humidity levels. However, winter is no joke in The Bayou State, with temps dipping down into single digits last year. A gas or electric furnace installation is key to keeping your family safe and warm during the frigid months.
Whatever heating system you decide on, you can count on Shield Mechanical’s 30 years of experience to set you up with the perfect heating upgrade. Whether you’re springing for a completely fresh furnace, replacing an older unit, or needing repairs, we are your Baton Rouge furnace install experts.
A furnace installation in Baton Rouge, LA, is a big job; let our trusted technicians partner with you to provide a positive, quick, and thorough experience. By the time we finish, you’ll rest easy knowing your home is warm and filled with higher-quality airflow.
When Is It Time to Replace My Furnace?
Furnace replacement in Baton Rouge, LA, is key to maintaining a safe and warm home. If you’re noticing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to call the experts at Shield Mechanical for a new furnace strategy.
- Rising energy bills. If you’re shelling out more and more each month, your furnace is struggling to keep up. A replacement unit can cut your energy usage and put money back into your pocket.
- Strange smells. Odd smells are a major risk factor. If you notice a burnt plastic smell, contact a professional immediately. You may need to shut off the power. The smell of rotten eggs is a major indicator of damage if you have a gas heating system. Leave your home and call a professional immediately.
- Age. Sadly, furnaces don’t age gracefully after 15 to 20 years. If your furnace is approaching 20 years old, it’s a good idea to consider replacing it.
- Frequent repairs. Furnace repairs themselves are no cause for alarm, but if a technician is visiting your house regularly, it may be time for a full swap. You’ll eventually pay the cost of a new furnace to keep an old, failing unit alive.
Furnace Safety Tips Residents of Baton Rouge Should Know
This may feel like an obvious take, but heating elements can be dangerous. Whether you’re going for a gas or electric furnace installation, there are some safety concerns you should keep top of mind.
- Always have a carbon monoxide detector. You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide; alarms are necessary to give you a proper warning of a dangerous leak. If you or certain family members spend more time at home and are feeling sick (dizziness, fatigue, nausea), be wary.
- Don’t store items near your furnace. Storage space is valuable. Not burning your house down by putting flammable items near or on your furnace is even more important. This can also decrease the efficiency of your furnace.
- Get regular inspections. Before you jump to a full furnace inspection or replacement in Baton Rouge, LA, let your Shield Mechanical professionals take a look. A professional eye can identify problems and head them off at the pass, extending the life of your furnace.
Furnace Installation FAQs for Baton Rouge, LA
Do I really need a furnace in Baton Rouge?
Non-natives may look at the South and assume it’s all sun and no snow. These days, you couldn’t be farther from the truth. Last year alone, 10 inches of snow fell in January, closing schools and drastically reducing driving conditions. Getting set up with an electric or gas furnace installation is key for those snow-packed, stay-at-home days.
Does my furnace need to match a specific AFUE rating?
Your furnace needs to have an AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating of at least 80% to be considered mid-range in efficiency. This rating is also the minimum target required for most furnaces. Anything 90% or above is considered highly efficient.
How long does a furnace installation take?
The devil is, of course, in the details. But most furnace installations take a day, ranging anywhere from about 4 to 10 hours. The complexity of your heating system, type of furnace you’re installing or replacing, layout of your home, and condition of your ductwork can change that timeline.
Should I get a gas or electric furnace installed?
Furnace installations and replacements in Baton Rouge, LA, involve several considerations when deciding between gas and electric. Installing an electric system is usually easier and cheaper than gas options. While gas stoves can be cheaper in the long run, electric stoves are inherently greener.