Call the Furnace Pros at LaPlante
Your most fundamental need in getting through Maine’s long, cold winters is a reliable furnace. It needs to work efficiently and consistently when you need it most. That’s why we’re wicked picky about
- Skillful Installation
- Steady and True Repairs
- Protective Maintenance
- Energy-Saving Solutions
- Straightforward Second Opinions
LaPlante’s Furnace Pros specializes in installation, repair, and maintenance of every type of furnace, and our highly-trained technicians have a deep understanding of the mechanics of furnaces and how to properly diagnose any issue. If you need a new furnace, we can help you choose the perfect unit to accommodate your needs and budget.
Skillful Furnace Installation
We install all types of furnaces, including gas, oil, and high-efficiency systems. Our team will assess your heating needs and recommend the best system for your space and budget.
The most important day in the life of your furnace is the day it’s installed. LaPlante takes the time to do the job right – no corners cut, no job rushed, no details missed. We never compromise on quality workmanship you can count on for decades to come.
We’ll examine your entire system, conduct a load calculation that determines the perfect-sized system for your specific house, give you all your options and a straightforward price.
On the day we install, we will custom-build your ductwork, fine-tune and customize your new furnace to maximum efficiency, and thoroughly test your new system to ensure perfect installation.
If your furnace is acting up, we’ll thoroughly diagnose the issue, provide straightforward recommendations and price quotes, and fix it up right.
Signs You Need A Furnace Repair
We don’t want you to get stuck with a broken furnace in the middle of a Maine winter. The top four signs your furnace needs a repair immediately are:
- Higher energy bills
- System blowing out cold air
- Noisier than usual unit
- Varying temperatures from room to room
Common Furnace Problems
Dirty Filters trap dust, debris, and other particles, which clogs and restricts airflow over time making your furnace work harder to maintain your desired temperature. That not only reduces efficiency but also increases wear and tear on your furnace.
Thermostat issues can lead to inconsistent heating or completely stop your furnace from operating. Making sure your thermostat is properly calibrated and functioning helps maintain a consistent and super comfortable environment in your home.
Ignition or Pilot Light Problems prevent your furnace from producing heat. For gas furnaces, the ignition system or pilot light is crucial for starting the heating process. Many issues can cause the furnace to fail to ignite. Regular maintenance and timely repairs helps avoid these issues.
Wear and Tear on Components such as belts, bearings, and motors cause your furnace to operate inefficiently or completely break down. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify worn components early, allowing for timely replacements and preventing more significant issues.
Protective Furnace Maintenance
Regular tune-ups extend the lifespans of your system, lower energy bills, and help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly emergency repairs. That saves you BIG money!
When LaPlante tunes up your furnace, we always:
- Clean and inspect burners
- Check for leaks or cracks
- Replace air filters
- Inspect and lubricate moving parts
- Test the thermostat for accuracy
- Ensure safe and efficient operation
We help homeowners lower their energy bills and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels with modern heating solutions. At LaPlante Home Services, we help homeowners move toward greater energy independence. Whether it’s upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace, improving your home’s insulation, or installing smart thermostats, we’re committed to practical, forward-thinking solutions that save you money while reducing environmental impact. Upgrading components such as the blower motor, thermostat, or adding programmable controls can also enhance your furnace’s efficiency.
Need a Second Opinion? Call LaPlante!
If you’ve been told you need a furnace, let us five it a second look before you spend thousands on a replacements. A repair might give your system more years of life. At LaPlante Home services, we believe in honest, no-pressure service. If we can extend the life of your system with a repair and keep it running safely, we’ll give you a straightforward second opinion. If a replacement is the best option, we’ll guide you toward the most efficient and cost-effective solution for your home.
Is Your Furnace Nearing The End Of Its Life?
Most furnaces last 15 to 20 years, but efficiency starts to decline much sooner. By the time a furnace reaches 12-15 years old, it may be using more energy to produce the same level of heat. If you’re noticing:
- Rising energy costs
- More frequent repairs
- Inconsistent heating
…it may be time to consider either repairs or an upgrade. Our team will help you determine the best course of action based on your furnace’s condition.
Contact LaPlante Home Services Today
Whether you need a new furnace, a repair, or just routine maintenance, LaPlante Home Services is here to help. We take pride in delivering honest advice, expert service, and quality workmanship to Portland, Maine, and the surrounding communities. Give us a call today, and let’s make sure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long!
Give us a call today, and let’s make sure you have hear when you need it most!
Safety
Gas Furnaces pose specific safety risks that should always be handled by a professional:
- Gas Leaks: If you smell gas, turn off the furnace, evacuate your home, and call a professional immediately. Gas leaks are dangerous and require expert handling.
- Carbon Monoxide: Improper combustion can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, which is life-threatening. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you suspect carbon monoxide, evacuate and contact emergency services.
- Flame Color: The pilot light or burner flame should be blue. A yellow or orange flame can indicate a combustion problem, often due to dirty burners or a gas supply issue.
Electrical issues in furnaces can be complex and dangerous. If you encounter any of the following, it’s best to call a professional:
- Blown Fuses or Tripped Breakers: Repeated issues with your electrical system suggest underlying problems that need expert diagnosis.
- Non-Functional Thermostat: If the thermostat isn’t working after basic troubleshooting, there might be an electrical fault.
- Wiring Issues: Loose or damaged wires can cause short circuits and pose fire hazards.
Furnace FAQs
What’s the most common basement problem you see?
Electrical panels that are too small for modern homes, water heaters that are past their lifespan, and heating systems that are struggling. Basically, equipment that’s been working hard for years and is ready to be upgraded. Spring melt sometimes reveals problems that have been brewing for a while.
What’s the most important thing I can do to extend my heating system’s life?
Change your filters regularly and schedule annual professional maintenance. According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, regular maintenance can extend equipment life by years and prevent 95% of heating system failures.
Should I consider a heat pump instead of replacing my furnace or boiler?
Heat pumps are worth considering, especially in Maine where Efficiency Maine offers rebates. They provide both heating and cooling and can be more efficient than traditional systems. The Department of Energy explains that modern heat pumps work efficiently even in cold climates. We can help you evaluate if it’s the right choice for your home.
Can you tell me how much life my system has left?
We can give you a good assessment based on age, condition, and performance. We can’t predict the exact date it’ll fail, but we can tell you if you’re looking at years, months, or “probably shouldn’t wait much longer.”
Should I get my heating system serviced even if nothing seems wrong?
Yes. Annual maintenance catches problems early, keeps your system running efficiently, and extends its lifespan. It’s cheaper than emergency repairs and way cheaper than early replacement. ENERGY STAR recommends scheduling maintenance before each heating season.
What happens if my heating system fails in the middle of winter?
We handle emergency heating repairs year-round. But emergency service during peak season means you’re competing with everyone else whose system just failed. Plan ahead when you can.
How much does furnace or boiler replacement cost?
Depends on the system type, size, and complexity of the install. We give you a clear quote before we start so there are no surprises. And we can talk through financing options if you need them.
How long should a furnace or boiler last?
Furnaces typically last 15-20 years. Boilers can last 15-25 years, sometimes longer with good maintenance. But lifespan depends on the quality of the unit, proper installation, and regular maintenance.Consumer Reports notes that well-maintained systems can exceed these averages.
How long does a typical furnace repair take?
The duration of a furnace repair varies, but most common repairs can be completed within a few hours.
Are annual furnace tune-ups really necessary?
Yes, annual tune-ups are necessary to ensure your furnace operates efficiently and safely, and to catch potential problems early.
What should I do if I smell gas near my furnace?
If you smell gas, turn off the furnace, evacuate your home, and contact a professional immediately.
How can I improve my furnace’s efficiency?
Regular maintenance, using a programmable thermostat, sealing ducts, and insulating your home can improve efficiency.
Is it normal for my furnace to make noise?
Some noise is normal, but unusual sounds like banging, clanging, or squealing indicate a problem that needs professional attention.
What are the signs that my furnace needs to be replaced?
Signs include frequent repairs, rising energy bills, uneven heating, and an aging system (over 15-20 years).
How can I tell if my furnace is energy efficient?
Check the AFUE rating of your furnace; higher ratings indicate better energy efficiency.
Can a dirty furnace filter cause the system to shut off?
Yes, a dirty furnace filter can restrict airflow, causing the system to overheat and shut off.
What’s the average lifespan of a furnace?
The average lifespan of a furnace is typically between 15-20 years with proper maintenance.
How often should I replace my furnace filter?
You should replace your furnace filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter.
