After observing that their furnace produced flames when starting up, a homeowner sought help from Reddit.
shared a video
Of an apparently aged furnace in the
r/hvacadvice
Subreddit, where some members of the community suggest buying a replacement.
Older versions of furnaces certainly depend on a
standing pilot light
—a tiny, steady flame—to light the burners, whereas more recent models generally employ electronic ignition systems. The initial query from the poster was about whether their furnace could be considered safe for use.
“Likely safe. Plus, it’s over 40 years old. This is a natural draft furnace and such furnaces typically behave this way,” said a commentator.
shared
in their detailed explanation.
The commenter proceeded to indicate that there might still be an issue to tackle if the initial poster notices flames extending past the shield when the blower activates. They advised using a carbon monoxide detector as a precautionary measure—along with preparing to purchase a new furnace soon.
This model essentially releases gas continuously until the gas reaches the flame. It’s quite an inefficient system.… It consumes much more gas and electricity compared to modern units.
Approximately 42% of home energy usage is attributed to heating purposes.
according to
The U.S. Energy Information Administration. Of course, that percentage,
increases
When factoring in air conditioning, consider the overall cost of regulating your home’s temperature. The EIA also
notes
That older houses with insufficient insulation end up consuming more energy for heating and cooling, which leads to higher expenses for the homeowners.
Stream now: Just how detrimental is a gas stove for your home’s interior air quality?
Some positive news, though, is that the average U.S. household
now uses less energy
when compared to previous years, thanks to advancements in insulation along with more energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
Switching to an energy-efficient HVAC system, such as
heat pump
, this can result in significant cost reductions while also benefiting the environment. Modern systems are designed to consume less power while still fulfilling your requirements effectively. These units often include features such as variable speed fans and improved thermostat control, enabling them to distribute warmth more uniformly throughout your space without frequently cycling on and off. This contributes to maintaining consistent temperatures effortlessly.
energy bill
down as well.
It might be challenging to obtain top-notch guidance and track down a reliable HVAC installer, yet several excellent resources can assist you in finding an appropriate system at a reasonable cost.
Mitsubishi
can connect you with trained professionals who will help you install an efficient HVAC so you’re not left to figure it out all on your own.
Unlike traditional systems, a
heat pump
works by moving heat from one place to another. This uses way less energy. And it can heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer, all in one system.
|
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One homeowner saw their
The gas bill has been reduced by more than $200.
Following the installation of a heat pump, you may enjoy not only long-term savings but also extra financial perks such as tax credits and rebates via initiatives similar to those offered by the
Inflation Reduction Act
.
If you do want to take advantage of IRA incentives, you might consider trying to do so earlier rather than later, as President Donald Trump has indicated an intention to
eliminate these subsidies
Meanwhile, significant alterations to the IRA would ultimately necessitate an act of Congress.
In short: If your furnace is exhibiting alarming behavior such as emitting flames, it might be best to think about replacing it. And if you’re considering an upgrade,
save money
while also going green simultaneously,
look into upgrading
to a newer, energy-efficient system.
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save more
and
waste less
, and don’t miss
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Here are some simple methods to assist both yourself and the Earth.
Worried property owner records shocking video of an old heater: ‘What is triggering these bursts of flame?’
first appeared on
The Cool Down
.