
When those bone-chilling Schenectady winters come knocking, your home relies on the rhino – a rock-solid furnace that won’t quit when the mercury plummets. But if your old heating system is running on fumes or finally called it quits, you need experts who can take charge and get your home’s comfort back up and running.
That’s where Reimer’s certified furnace pros come to the rescue. For over 100 years, we’ve been the trusted choice for Schenectady homeowners who demand heating systems that stand strong through anything nature dishes out. We do more than just install furnaces. We also engineer complete comfort solutions sized perfectly for your home’s unique needs.
Don’t let a failing furnace leave you shivering when that next arctic blast rolls through. Day or night, we’re there in rhino time to keep your family toasty warm. Call Reimer today at (716) 272-2371 and let our heating experts get that new furnace installed right.
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Reimer’s Furnace Replacement & Installation Services in Schenectady, NY
Living through a Schenectady winter with a failing furnace isn’t just uncomfortable – it’s downright miserable. That’s why our local techs take a no-nonsense approach to furnace replacements, making sure your family stays warm without any of the usual headaches.
Professional Assessment & Consultation
Think your furnace might be on its last legs? Our techs will take a close look at your current system and give it to you straight. We’ve seen enough failing furnaces to know when a repair makes sense and when it’s time to call it quits. You’ll get real advice about what your home needs, not a pushy sales pitch.
Energy-Efficient Options
Those old furnaces can really eat up your heating bills. We’ll show you how today’s high-efficiency models can slash those winter utility costs. Whether you’re looking at natural gas, electric, or oil systems, we’ll skip the technical jargon and explain your options in plain English. Most folks are surprised to learn just how much they can save by upgrading.
Installation Done Right
Ever notice how one wrong-sized part can throw off your whole day? Same goes for furnaces. We take the time to measure twice and install once, making sure everything from the ductwork to the thermostat is perfectly matched to your home. No shortcuts, no rushed jobs – just careful attention to every detail.
Cleanup & Disposal
Your old furnace won’t turn into a basement eyesore. We’ll haul it away and make sure it’s recycled properly. By the time we’re done, you won’t even know we were there – except for that nice, warm air flowing through your vents.
Making It Affordable
Let’s talk straight about costs. Between available rebates, tax credits, and flexible payment options, a new furnace doesn’t have to break the bank. We’ll help you find the best deals without pushing you toward anything you don’t need.
Keeping It Running
Once your new furnace is up and running, we want it to stay that way. Regular maintenance catches little problems before they become big ones. And if something does go wrong? We’re just a phone call away.
Furnace Replacement & Installation FAQ
What are the Signs Your Furnace Needs Replacement?
Nobody wants to replace their furnace until they absolutely have to. But waiting too long can leave you shivering at the worst possible moment. Here are the warning signs that your old heating system might be ready for retirement:
Your Energy Bills Are Through the Roof
If those winter utility bills keep climbing even though your thermostat hasn’t budged, your furnace is probably working overtime just to keep up. Like an old car that guzzles more gas, an aging furnace burns through extra fuel trying to do its job.
The Repair Guy Knows You by Name
Finding yourself on a first-name basis with heating contractors? Those repair bills add up fast. When you’re paying to fix your furnace every few months, putting that money toward a new system usually makes more sense.
Some Rooms Feel Like Ice Caves
Cold spots throughout your house aren’t just annoying – they’re a sign your furnace is losing its touch. If some rooms feel like summer while others stay chilly, your old system’s probably struggling to distribute heat evenly.
Things Go Bump in the Night
New rattles, bangs, and groans from your basement aren’t ghost stories waiting to happen. Those weird noises usually mean worn-out parts are ready to give up the ghost. Better to replace them before they fail completely.
Your Furnace Has Some Miles on It
Most furnaces last about 15-20 years with decent maintenance. If yours is old enough to drive, it’s probably running on borrowed time. The efficiency drops off sharply in those later years, so upgrading often pays for itself in energy savings.
How Much Does Furnace Replacement and Installation Cost?
Let’s talk dollars and sense about furnace replacement. While we can’t give you an exact number without seeing your home (every installation is unique), we can walk you through what affects the bottom line and how to make it work for your budget.
The Type of Furnace
Just like cars, furnaces come in different models with varying efficiency ratings. High-efficiency units cost more upfront but can save you serious money on heating bills. Basic models are easier on your wallet today but might cost more to run over time.
Your Home’s Setup
The size and layout of your home play a big role. Larger homes need bigger furnaces, and some installations require extra work like ductwork modifications or electrical upgrades. If your basement is tighter than a submarine, that might mean more labor time too.
Installation Requirements
Every town has its own building codes and permit requirements. Some installations need additional safety features or ventilation updates to meet current standards. The good news? These requirements help ensure your new system runs safely and efficiently.
Flexible Payment Options
Nobody should freeze while saving up for a new furnace. That’s why we offer several payment plans to spread the cost over time. You can choose what works best for your monthly budget without emptying your savings account.
Available Incentives
Smart shoppers can really trim the final cost. Between manufacturer rebates, utility company incentives, and seasonal promotions, there’s usually some way to save. Energy-efficient models might even qualify for tax credits – we’ll help you find every available discount.
Long-Term Value
Remember, the sticker price isn’t the whole story. A properly sized, efficiently installed furnace will cost less to run and last longer.
How Long Does Furnace Replacement and Installation Take?
Wondering how long you’ll need to block off for your furnace swap? While we won’t leave you in the cold for days, a proper installation takes time to get right. Here’s what you can expect when we tackle your heating upgrade.
The Typical Timeline
Most straightforward furnace replacements wrap up in about 4-8 hours. That’s enough time to remove your old system, set up the new one, test everything thoroughly, and clean up our workspace. Think of it as a full day’s project – we show up in the morning and usually have you warming up by dinner time.
What Can Add Extra Time
- Ductwork Changes
If your existing ductwork needs modifications or repairs, that could add a few hours to the job. Sometimes we find old ducts that are too small or leaky to work efficiently with your new system. Better to fix these issues now than compromise your new furnace’s performance. - Electrical Updates
Older homes sometimes need electrical upgrades to handle modern furnaces safely. If we need to run new wiring or add circuits, that might stretch the project into a second day. Safety first – we won’t cut corners when it comes to electrical work. - Tight Spaces
Working in a cramped basement or crawl space is like solving a puzzle. When we need to carefully maneuver around water heaters, pipes, and support beams, things naturally take a bit longer. But we’d rather take our time than risk damaging your home. - Special Installations
Adding features like whole-house humidifiers or advanced air filtration systems means a few extra steps. These comfort upgrades are worth the time investment, but they’ll add an hour or two to the overall installation.
The Bottom Line
We’ll give you a solid timeline estimate before we start, and keep you posted if we run into anything unexpected. Our goal is to get your new furnace up and running as efficiently as possible – without rushing through important details that could affect its performance down the road.
Can I Replace and Install My Furnace Myself?
With all those DIY videos out there, it’s tempting to think about tackling your own furnace installation. But before you grab your toolbox and head to the basement, let’s talk about why this particular project might be better left to the pros.
The Things That Could Go Wrong
- Gas Lines and Safety
Playing around with gas lines isn’t like fixing a leaky faucet. One small mistake can lead to dangerous gas leaks or carbon monoxide issues. Plus, most local codes require licensed pros to handle any gas line work – for good reason. - Electrical Connections
Modern furnaces need precise wiring to run safely and efficiently. Cross the wrong wires or miss a ground connection, and you’re looking at potential fire hazards or a system that won’t run properly. Not exactly the kind of surprise you want on a cold winter night. - Sizing and Selection
Picking the wrong size furnace is like buying shoes three sizes too big – it just won’t work right. Professional load calculations consider dozens of factors about your home that aren’t obvious to the average DIYer. - Warranty Worries
Most manufacturers won’t honor their warranties on DIY installations. That means if something goes wrong, you’re on your own for repairs or replacement. Those warranty savings can disappear pretty quickly when problems pop up.
What You CAN Do Yourself
While the actual installation needs professional hands, there are plenty of ways to be a smart furnace owner:
- Keep your filter clean and changed regularly
- Learn how to operate your thermostat efficiently
- Watch for warning signs that something’s not right
- Keep the area around your furnace clean and clear
- Schedule regular maintenance to catch problems early
The Bottom Line
Save your DIY energy for projects that won’t put your family’s safety at risk. When it comes to furnace installation, investing in professional installation usually costs less in the long run than fixing DIY mistakes. Plus, you’ll sleep better knowing your heating system was installed right the first time.
How Do I Know If It’s Time to Replace My Furnace?
Nobody wants to spend money on a new furnace if they don’t have to. But sometimes, holding onto that old system is like keeping a car that spends more time in the shop than on the road. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to say goodbye to your old heating system.
Follow the Money Trail
If your utility bills keep climbing while your thermostat setting stays the same, your furnace is probably losing efficiency. Just like an old car burns more gas to go the same distance, an aging furnace uses more fuel to produce the same heat. When you’re spending more on energy bills and repairs than a new system would cost, it’s time to think about upgrading.
Count the Repair Bills
Been calling for repairs more often than you call your relatives? Those $200-300 fixes add up fast. When you’re facing a major repair on an older system, putting that money toward a new furnace often makes more sense. Think of it like fixing an old phone – at some point, upgrading is smarter than another screen replacement.
Listen to Your Home
Your house will tell you when your furnace is struggling. Rooms that never seem to get warm, strange noises from the basement, or constantly running equipment are all signs your system’s working too hard. If your home feels less comfortable than it used to, your furnace might be ready for retirement.
Check the Birthday Candles
Most furnaces last about 15-20 years with good maintenance. If yours is getting up there in age, it’s smart to start planning for replacement before it fails completely. The last thing you want is to make a rushed decision when your furnace quits during a cold snap.
Trust Your Gut
If you’re constantly worrying about your furnace making it through another winter, that stress alone might be worth the cost of replacement. Sometimes, the peace of mind that comes with a reliable new system is worth as much as the energy savings.
Remember, replacing your furnace doesn’t have to be an emergency decision. Planning ahead lets you choose the right system for your home and budget, instead of rushing to install whatever’s available when your old one finally quits.
What Type of Furnace Is Best for My Home?
Here in Schenectady, where winters bite hard and the heating season runs long, choosing the right furnace isn’t just about comfort but keeping those utility bills in check. This means you should not be passive about choosing the best furnace for your home. Let’s break down your options.
Natural Gas Furnaces
The Local Favorite
There’s a reason most Schenectady homes run on gas furnaces. They heat up quickly, work well in our brutal winters, and usually cost less to operate than other options. If you’ve already got gas service to your home, this is often your best choice.
Gas furnaces offer lower monthly operating costs and quick heat when you need it most. They’re especially reliable in our cold climate, delivering consistent performance through the worst winter weather. However, they do come with higher upfront costs and need an existing gas line. You’ll also need regular safety checks to keep everything running safely.
Electric Furnaces
The Simple Solution
Don’t have gas service? Electric furnaces might cost more to run, but they’re simpler to install and maintain. They’re also a solid choice for smaller homes or if you’re thinking about adding heat pumps later.
Electric systems come with lower installation costs since there’s no fuel line or venting to worry about. They’re generally safer and need less maintenance than fuel-burning systems. Although that looks attractive, it means that you’ll likely see higher monthly bills, especially during peak winter months. They also tend to heat more slowly and might struggle when temperatures really drop.
Oil Furnaces
The Old Reliable
While less common these days, oil furnaces still make sense for some Schenectady homes, especially if you’re already set up for oil delivery and storage.
Oil furnaces produce very hot air and work reliably in any weather without needing gas lines. But you’ll need space for fuel storage, and oil prices can be unpredictable. They also typically need more frequent maintenance to keep running efficiently.
Making Your Choice
When picking your perfect furnace, start by looking at your home’s specific situation. Consider things like square footage, available fuel types, insulation quality, and your budget constraints.
Remember, Schenectady winters don’t mess around. Whatever system you choose needs to handle below-zero temperatures without breaking a sweat (or your budget).
Will a New Furnace Reduce My Energy Bills?
Staring at another sky-high heating bill? You’re probably wondering if replacing that old furnace will actually make a difference. Let’s talk about real savings.
The Efficiency Game
Your old furnace is probably burning through more fuel than it needs to – way more. Think about it like an old truck that chugs gas just to make it up a hill. Most furnaces from 15-20 years ago waste about a third of their fuel. Meanwhile, today’s models turn almost all their fuel into actual heat for your home.
What This Means for Your Wallet
Numbers tell the story better than promises. Folks who swap out their aging furnaces often see their heating bills drop by a quarter or more. Here in Schenectady, where winter seems to last half the year, that adds up fast.
Smarter Heating
New furnaces don’t just burn fuel better – they’re smarter about how they heat your house. Instead of blasting full force then shutting off completely, they adjust their output based on what your home needs. It’s like the difference between stomping on the gas and brake versus maintaining a steady speed.
The Bigger Picture
Your furnace works with everything else in your house. When it’s running right, you’ll notice more than just lower bills. Those cold spots near the windows? Gone. The constant cycling on and off? Much less frequent. Your rooms stay comfortable without the system working overtime.
Money Matters
Sure, new furnaces aren’t cheap. But running an old, inefficient system is like heating the outdoors – expensive and pointless. Most people start seeing lower bills right away, and those savings keep growing every heating season.
Just remember: every house is different. Your actual savings depend on things like how well your home keeps in heat and how you set your thermostat. But one thing’s clear – that old furnace isn’t doing your energy bills any favors.
How Often Should I Replace My Furnace Filter?
Let’s talk about the cheapest way to keep your furnace happy and your air clean. That simple filter does more heavy lifting than most people realize, and knowing when to change it can save you from some expensive headaches down the road.
The Basic Timeline
Most folks should check their filter monthly and replace it every 3-4 months. But that’s just a starting point. Your home’s situation might need more frequent changes. Living with pets? Got kids? Love to keep your windows open? Your filter’s probably working overtime.
Signs It’s Time for a Change
Don’t wait for your furnace to start complaining. Take a look at that filter – if it’s gray instead of white, or you can’t see light through it anymore, it’s time for a fresh one. Dusty house? Higher energy bills? More sneezing than usual? These are all hints your filter’s crying uncle.
Why It Matters
A clogged filter is like trying to breathe through a pillow. Your furnace has to work harder, use more energy, and still doesn’t heat your home as well. Plus, all that dust and dirt that should be getting caught ends up circulating through your house instead. Not exactly what you want your family breathing.
Making It Easy
Mark filter changes on your calendar, or set a reminder on your phone. Keep a couple spares on hand. And write the date on the filter when you install it. Future you will appreciate knowing exactly how long it’s been in there.
The Bottom Line
Changing your filter is probably the easiest maintenance job you can do yourself. Five minutes and a few bucks every few months beats the heck out of expensive repairs or replacement down the road. Your furnace, your wallet, and your lungs will all thank you.
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED
Maintenance Plans
Since 1921, our team of Western NY’s top notch service specialists have been serving the area and caring for thousands of customers. At Reimer, we do everything in our power to ensure that your home comfort system works efficiently and effectively every time you turn it on.
- Multi-Point System Inspection
- Calibrate System for Efficiency
- Ensure Proper Airflow
- Maintain System Warranties
- Reduces Unexpected Breakdowns
- Evaluate Filtration & Indoor Air Quality
- Routine Maintenance Leads to Reduced Utility Bills and Extends the Life of your System(s)
Trust Your Home’s Comfort to Schenectady’s Heating Experts
When winter shows its teeth, Schenectady homes rely on the rhino to keep families warm and cozy. For over 100 years, we’ve been the inside choice for homeowners who want their furnace installation done right the first time.
Don’t let a failing furnace leave you in the cold. Whether you need a complete system replacement or just straight talk about your heating options, we’re ready to take charge and get your home back up and running.
Day or night, we’re there in rhino time – because your family’s comfort can’t wait. Call Reimer today at (716) 272-2371 and let our heating experts show you why we’ve been keeping Schenectady homes running right since 1921. Reimer to the rescue!
Over
100YEARS OF
EXPERIENCE
Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing Repair in Buffalo, New York.
For decades, local homeowners have trusted the team at Reimer Home Services with all their home service needs. We’re your HVAC company in Buffalo. We’re your plumbers here in Western New York. Above all else, we’re here for you and your home.
You can count on our team to be there when you need us. In fact, we’re available Day or Night. Your home’s problems can’t wait, and neither should you. Call us and let us know how our plumbers and techs can help.
We’re your local home services team…
Factory Authorized Trane System Dealer
Reimer is proud to be a Factory Authorized Trane System Dealer and offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. We are so confident that you will be comfortable – not only with your Trane System heating and cooling products but with us as a Factory Authorized Trane System Dealer – that we back it up with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This guarantee applies If, you are dissatisfied with your Trane System equipment within one year, for any reason.
Our plumbers fix it all.