Is it time to replace your furnace? The Benefits of upgrading and what to consider when choosing a new furnace. Contact us Today
With winter on the horizon in St. Louis, homeowners are preparing to rely on their furnaces for a comfortable indoor climate. It can be challenging to determine when a furnace has reached the end of its helpful life versus needing simple repairs. Replacing an aging furnace can help lower energy costs, improve comfort, and ensure a safer environment.
Contact Tom Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating today to schedule an inspection or consultation. Let us help you keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient this winter and beyond.
Having Tom come to our aid was a great experience and he offered followup assistance with the fancy technology part of the appliance if we need it. We will call him again if the need arises. Merry Christmas.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Marilyn! We're glad to hear that Nick was able to assist you and provide follow-up support. We appreciate your trust in us and wish you a Merry Christmas!
Great service. Responsive. Well trained technicians. Honest friendly and thorough. I highly recommend Tom Hoffmann and his team.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We appreciate your recommendation and are delighted to hear about your positive experience with our team.
As always, the Hoffmann technician was polite, professional, and efficient. Pricing is reasonable and even more importantly, they are dependable. I will continue to use Thomas Hoffman A/C and Heating.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mark, for your kind words about our technician and for your continued trust in Thomas Hoffman A/C and Heating; we truly appreciate your support!
These guys are pros. Techs are friendly, listen and explain what they are doing. Office staff is responsive. Fast service....
Response from the owner:Thank you, Clark, for your kind words! We're glad to hear our techs and office staff made your experience a great one. Your feedback means a lot to us!
Excellent service. A/C went out on a weekend. Called them on Saturday morning, they were out within about 2 hours. The fix was easy enough, and he even had the part in the truck! I recommend this company for all of your HVAC needs
Response from the owner:Thank you, Elaine! We're glad to hear you received prompt service and that the fix was smooth. Your recommendation means a lot to us!
The service technicians are very courteous and communicate well with the customer. They let you know what, if any, problems are found, the options, and the cost of the repair(s). Quick and efficient.
Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our service technicians' courteous and effective communication, we appreciate your feedback!
These guys were great. Quick to return my call. Up front pricing. Great work on the installation. And the installers were nice and friendly. Highly recommend Thomas Hoffmann.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Steve! We truly appreciate your kind words and are glad to hear you had such a positive experience with our team and Thomas Hoffmann. Your recommendation means a lot to us!
Hoffmann came out the same day I called them because our AC was out. The technician, Ryan, was able to get the system running again, was polite and responded to my questions. We’re off to a good start!
Response from the owner:Thank you, John! We're glad to hear Ryan was able to help and that you’re off to a good start with your AC. We appreciate your feedback!
Thomas came over promptly I spoke with him about my concerns with my unit. Immediately got to work trouble shooting and resolved my issues. A+
Response from the owner:Thank you, James, for your kind words and for recognizing Thomas's promptness and dedication in resolving your concerns; we appreciate your feedback!
We have called Thomas Hoffmann many times and they are very prompt and very professional.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Vicki, for your kind words about Thomas Hoffmann's promptness and professionalism; we truly appreciate your feedback!
Not a customer, but witnessed one of their technicians have an episode of road rage in Clayton. I would be concerned about letting them into my house/business.
We really trust Thomas Hoffman AC and Heating. Nick Hoffman has serviced our units several times now and he is professional, knowledgeable and very easy to work with. He comes on time, so we don’t have to schedule a long waiting period. We would highly recommend this company.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Greg, for your kind words and for trusting us with your AC and heating needs; we’re glad to hear that Nick has provided you with such great service.
We’ve been looking for a locally owned small HVAC dealer for a few years. And we found it with Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating. We love their service technicians. They come on time, they know what they are doing, they don’t upsell you on every appointment and they like working for Thomas Hoffmann. A happy employee makes for a happy customer.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mary, for sharing your wonderful experience with us; we're glad to hear you appreciate our technicians and their commitment to great service!
I called on a Monday morning as air conditioning was blowing warm air. They were able to come to my house very early afternoon and fixed the problem. Would highly recommend and will use them again.
Response from the owner:Becky thank you so much for your great review. We appreciate your business and your kind words.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Margaret! We appreciate your kind words and will make sure to pass along your praise to Nick for his excellent service.
I am very pleased with the service provided. , especially the quick response to my request . The technician came in themorning and had my cooling system repaired within an hour. Thank you !
Response from the owner:We're delighted we could promptly assist you on a Sunday morning and fix your cooling system efficiently. Thank you!
Here on time, worked fast. Always pleasant and great answering questions. Zach always does a great job.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Debra, for your kind words; we're glad to hear Zach made a positive impression and that you had a great experience with our team!
Extremely quick response for appointment and did quick fix for our furnace and heat is working great !
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We're glad to hear our team was able to respond quickly and get your furnace working great. We appreciate your feedback!
They were timely, polite, professional and they saved us from too much sweating. In a field full of pompous and arrogant technicians, these guys take the time to explain what is wrong and how they are correcting it. Other folks just assume you are incompetent but these folks take the time to educate. Cannot recommend highly enough.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We truly appreciate your feedback and are glad we could provide you with a positive experience.
I would like to have a receipt for my payment which I did not receive. On a positive note he was very punctual very early actually he did his job and was very professional and I'm hoping and praying this took care of the issue thank you and I would not hesitate at this time to use your services
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mark, for your feedback and for highlighting the punctuality and professionalism of our team; we appreciate your support and will ensure you receive your receipt promptly.
Our experience with them was fantastic all the way through! Not only were they able to get to our business that day but the customer service from the phone call to the on-site service was professional and quick. We'll definitely be using Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning and Heating in the future.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Michelle, for your wonderful feedback! We're glad to hear about your fantastic experience and appreciate your kind words about our team's professionalism. We look forward to serving you again in the future!
I couldn’t be happier with the service from Thomas Hoffmann Air-Conditioning! From the moment I called, the team was professional, responsive, and truly knowledgeable. Thomas personally made sure everything was handled with great attention to detail. The installation was smooth, efficient, and the quality of the work exceeded my expectations. It’s rare to find a company that is both skilled and genuinely cares about their customers. I highly recommend Thomas Hoffmann Air-Conditioning to anyone looking for honest, reliable, and top-notch service. They’ve definitely earned a loyal customer!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Rick, for your kind words and for recognizing our team's hard work; we're grateful for your support and thrilled to have earned your loyalty!
Amazing service from Thomas Hoffmann! They made space in their schedule to come out the next day to fix our air conditioner. They were on time, honest and fixed the problem on the spot. Thank you!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Ashley! We appreciate your kind words about our team's service – it's great to hear we could help you so quickly.
Fast efficient service. Both of the gentlemen that came to my home were very help and informative not to mention polite. It’s difficult to get service advisers to appear at your home when scheduled most times they’re late or don’t show up at all. Not an issue with this team on time, clear diagnosis, quick repair. I would definitely use Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning again. I recommend them highly.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Anna, for your wonderful feedback! We're glad to hear that our team provided you with timely and helpful service, and we appreciate your high recommendation.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Ordont, for your wonderful feedback; we're so glad to hear everything met your expectations!
Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace
1. Age of Your Furnace
The average lifespan of a furnace is 15 to 20 years. After this point, the system becomes less efficient and may struggle to meet your heating needs. If your furnace is approaching this age, it’s wise to evaluate replacement options. Older systems lose efficiency over time, leading to higher utility bills, especially during cold Missouri winters.
2. Increasing Heating Bills
If your energy bills are rising despite no changes in usage, your furnace may consume more energy to maintain the same temperature. Declining efficiency is a common sign of an aging furnace, as it has to work harder to heat your home. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient model can significantly reduce heating costs.
3. Frequent Repairs
When furnace repairs become a regular occurrence, replacement may be more economical. A general rule is if repair costs are approaching half the price of a new furnace, it’s usually better to invest in a replacement. Increasing repair frequency is often a sign of components wearing down, which could lead to further issues.
4. Uneven Heating
If you notice temperature fluctuations between rooms or areas of your home, this may indicate your furnace can no longer distribute heat effectively. An older furnace often struggles to maintain consistent warmth, especially if it’s undersized for your home’s current needs. A new, correctly sized unit can help create an even, comfortable indoor climate throughout your space.
5. Strange Noises and Odors
Unusual noises like banging, rattling, or screeching can indicate worn or broken parts in your furnace. Burning or musty odors may also suggest issues like overheating, dust buildup, or even a cracked heat exchanger, a serious safety concern. Persistent sounds and smells are often a signal that replacement should be considered.
6. Air Quality Concerns
Older furnaces may struggle to filter and circulate clean air, which can lead to a decline in indoor air quality. It may be time to upgrade if you notice more dust, dander, or musty odors around your home. Newer models have advanced filtration systems that help maintain clean, healthy indoor air.
7. Safety Issues and Carbon Monoxide Concerns
If you notice warning signs like frequent carbon monoxide detector alerts, rust on the furnace, or pilot light problems, these could indicate serious safety risks. Older furnaces with cracked heat exchangers can leak carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, potentially lethal gas. In this situation, replacement is often the safest choice.
The Benefits of Replacing Your Furnace
Replacing an aging furnace has several benefits beyond the peace of mind of reliable heating.
Energy Efficiency and Savings: Newer furnaces are designed with efficiency in mind, often reaching Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings of 90% or higher. This translates to energy savings and lower heating bills.
Improved Comfort: Modern furnaces heat your home more consistently, preventing the cold spots and temperature fluctuations that older systems often cause.
Enhanced Safety: A new furnace eliminates the risk of safety issues such as carbon monoxide leaks, offering added protection for you and your family.
Eco-Friendly: High-efficiency furnaces consume less fuel, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener environment.
Increased Property Value: An upgraded HVAC system can increase your home’s resale value, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re considering selling.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a New Furnace
If you’re ready to replace your furnace, consider these essential factors to ensure you choose the best option for your home.
Furnace Size and Capacity
Choosing the right size furnace is essential for efficiency and comfort. An undersized unit will have difficulty maintaining warmth, while an oversized one can cause issues like short cycling and increased wear on components. Working with an HVAC professional ensures you’ll get the correct capacity based on your home’s square footage, insulation, and layout.
Efficiency Ratings (AFUE)
The efficiency of your furnace directly impacts energy costs. High-efficiency furnaces with 90% or above AFUE ratings use less fuel and are more environmentally friendly. Although these models may have a higher initial cost, the energy savings over time can offset this expense.
Fuel Type
Most St. Louis homeowners choose between gas, electric, or oil furnaces. Gas furnaces are generally the most efficient and affordable in regions where natural gas is readily available. Electric furnaces, though often more expensive to operate, are a cleaner option and may be preferable in areas without natural gas service.
Additional Features
Modern furnaces have optional features like variable-speed blowers, programmable thermostats, and integrated humidifiers. Variable-speed blowers, for instance, can enhance comfort by adjusting airflow to maintain a more even temperature. Smart thermostat compatibility also allows remote control and customization of heating schedules for added efficiency.
When Is the Best Time to Replace Your Furnace?
Planning your furnace replacement before winter sets in is ideal. Fall is the best time for St. Louis homeowners to install a new furnace, as HVAC companies tend to be less busy, making it easier to schedule convenient appointments. Additionally, preparing before the cold weather arrives ensures your home stays comfortable without interruption during winter.
Choosing a Reliable HVAC Provider
Selecting an experienced, reputable HVAC provider is essential to ensure a smooth installation and ongoing support. Look for companies with positive reviews, certifications, and a solid reputation in the St. Louis area. Many HVAC providers also offer maintenance packages, which can help you keep your new system in peak condition for years.
At Tom Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating, we’re dedicated to helping St. Louis homeowners make informed decisions about their HVAC systems. Whether you’re ready for a new furnace or need an inspection to determine the best course of action, our team is here to provide expert guidance and reliable service.
Contact Us Today
Replacing your furnace can feel like a big decision, but it’s an investment in your home’s comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. If your furnace is showing signs of aging or struggles to keep your home warm, now is the time to consider upgrading before winter hits.
Contact Tom Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating today to schedule an inspection or consultation. Let us help you keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient this winter and beyond.
