Natural Gas prices are Soaring

Natural gas has been a major part of a household’s heating and cooling needs for many years. Along with being the most popular heating fuel, natural gas is also used for cooking and heating water. The high price of natural gas is a major concern for homeowners especially us in Southern California who rely on gas furnaces to keep our homes warm during the winter months. You probably already know Californians are getting hit with outrageously high natural gas bills as utility companies pass on the increased cost of procuring gas to their customers. With the cost of natural gas on the rise, many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their energy bills and keep their homes comfortable. One solution is to upgrade your furnace to a more energy-efficient model.

Why are prices so high?

California pipes in 90% of the natural gas it uses from elsewhere, making the state vulnerable to issues outside its borders.  Californians are getting hit with outrageously high natural gas bills as utility companies pass on the increased cost of procuring gas to their customers. According to SoCalGas, which serves most of Southern California, prices are running about five times higher than last January.

Upgrading your furnace can have many benefits, including:

1. Lower energy bills:
   Energy-efficient furnaces use less natural gas to heat your home, which can lead to lower energy bills over time. This can help offset the cost of upgrading your furnace.

    

2. Increased comfort:
   A new, high-efficiency furnace can provide more consistent heat throughout your home, which can lead to increased comfort during the winter months.

    

3. Improved air quality:
   Newer furnaces often have better air filtration systems, which can help improve the indoor air quality in your home.

    

4. Increased home value:
   Upgrading your furnace can increase the value of your home, which can be a significant benefit if you plan to sell your home in the future.

    

5. Environmental benefits:
   High-efficiency furnaces emit fewer greenhouse gasses than older, less-efficient models. By upgrading your furnace, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

While upgrading your furnace can be a significant investment, the long-term benefits can make it a wise choice for homeowners far outweighing the initial expense. In addition to lower energy bills and increased comfort, a new furnace can provide environmental and financial benefits that can last for years to come.

At Rightemp Home Services we’ve been installing, repairing and maintaining HVAC systems for over 30 years and have several solutions for upgrading your furnace for less than $79 per month!

Upgrade Your Furnace

To reduce heating costs, consider upgrading your old and inefficient furnace with a newer model that has a higher AFUE rating. AFUE measures the furnace’s fuel utilization efficiency, and newer furnaces typically have an average AFUE of 95%, while older models achieve only about 80%. By upgrading to a more efficient furnace, which is typically 15% more efficient, you can save a significant amount on heating bills over the furnace’s lifetime. While actual savings will depend on weather and temperature preferences, the cost savings can eventually offset the cost of a new furnace through lower natural gas bills.

When to Start Considering Furnace Installation

Here are a few other signs that it’s time to begin thinking about furnace installation:

1. Age. If your furnace is 15 or more years old, you should begin planning for replacement to avoid being without heat when your furnace goes out for good.
2. Repair frequency and price. If your furnace repair bills are greater than half the cost of a new system, we recommend getting a new one. This also applies if repairs are becoming more frequent.
3. Reduced comfort and more expensive heating bills. As your furnace ages, it needs more energy. You’ll notice this through your home being less cozy and your heating bill being higher.
4. Weird noises. It’s typical for your furnace to make some sound as it turns on and off. But some sounds, particularly rattling, banging or screeching, are a clear sign that something’s wrong. Based on the severity of the issue, it may just be better to get a new furnace.
5. Yellow burner flames. Your furnace’s burner flames should always be blue. Yellow flames mean your furnace is consuming more fuel and may even be making carbon monoxide, which can be lethal in large doses. Furnaces leaking this deadly gas should be taken out immediately.

In conclusion, the high price of natural gas is a good reason to consider upgrading your furnace. By investing in a more energy-efficient model, you can save money on your energy bills, increase your home’s value, and contribute to a healthier planet. If you’re interested in upgrading your furnace, be sure to consult with a qualified HVAC professional to help you select the best model for your home and budget.

Contact Rightemp Home Services to help you! We also offer a VIP Maintenance plan for a low yearly cost, check it out!