REVIEWS

Your furnace is an indispensable piece of equipment in your home, especially during cold weather. Without it, your family will be left in the cold and at a risk of developing diseases brought about by extremely low temperatures. There are days and nights when your unit has to work 24/7 to keep your home toasty. However, this puts a lot of stress on the furnace and if your system has been serving you for 15 years or more, it may not be as energy-efficient as it once was.

If you are looking for a new furnace for your home, there are a few things you need to consider before making that purchase. Choosing the right heating system can sometimes be an overwhelming task for a homeowner and calling a professional is necessary for making an informed decision. Remember to do business only with a licensed heating company in Champaign, IL to ensure you get the best solution.

Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when buying a new furnace.

Energy Efficiency

Your furnace is one of the major energy-consuming appliances in your home. It’s important to determine the energy-efficiency of a furnace to give you an idea of how much fuel it needs to heat your home.

A furnace’s ability to convert gas into heat is measured by its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. It shows the percentage of the fuel consumed that is actually used for generating heat. To put it simply, the higher the AFUE rating, the greater the savings.

A furnace with an AFUE of 85 percent converts 85 percent of the fuel into heat while the other 15 percent goes out the chimney or elsewhere.

Proper Sizing

Buying the largest or the most expensive furnace doesn’t really guarantee ultimate comfort. When it comes to furnaces, bigger isn’t always better and smaller doesn’t always mean it’s cost-effective.

When a furnace is oversized, it heats up the home quickly but uses a lot of fuel. A bulky furnace is prone to short cycling, which means the unit will shut itself off before the thermostat even makes the right temperature readings. Too much short cycling isn’t healthy for the furnace as it causes the unit to break prematurely.

On the other hand, when a furnace is undersized, it is incapable of properly heating your home, which causes it to run longer in an attempt to reach your desired temperature. Not only does it consume more fuel, it also forces your furnace to work harder. Similar to an oversized furnace, a unit that is too small is bound to fail earlier than it should — prompting you to replace it much sooner than if you installed a correctly sized system.

Safety Features

When it comes to home comfort, energy-efficiency is not the only thing that matters; you should also consider the safety features of your furnace, which can protect your home. High-efficiency furnaces that have a minimum of 90 percent AFUE use outside air for combustion. Not only does this prevent your home from catching fire, it also keeps your furnace from being damaged caused by vapors from household cleaning products.

High-efficiency furnaces use an electronic ignition system that is proven to be more reliable and safer than old furnaces that utilize standing pilot light. This ignition system only uses heat when the furnace calls for heat. These furnaces are also designed to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Smart Thermostat Compatibility

When buying a new furnace, consider a unit that is compatible with smart thermostats, which have the ability to learn your daily schedule and preferences, making it easier to conserve energy by allowing the thermostat to control your home’s temperatures.

These devices also remind you of your maintenance schedule and have the ability to monitor your fuel consumption. In addition, smart thermostats can also detect a dirty filter and will let you know when it needs cleaning or replacing.

Call the Heating Experts

These are just some of the key points you need to consider when buying a new furnace. Our HVAC experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning can help you make a wise decision by employing scientific and practical ways in choosing the right system for your home.

We are the trusted Champaign furnace installation company that is dedicated to providing you with the best heating and cooling solutions for your home.

The average lifespan of a home gas furnace is between 15 to 20 years. If your unit is around this age or more, it’s time to consider getting a replacement for a number of reasons.

First, it is quite normal for a furnace to create some noise when it starts or shuts down, but if those noises begin to be extremely louder, it may be time to shop for a new unit. These sounds are signs that there are certain parts of the furnace needing replacement. The problem is that as furnaces get older, finding replacement parts gets challenging.

Second, an older furnace is bound to work harder to keep your house warm. This translates to higher energy bills and more frequent repairs. If you notice a significant increase in heating and repair costs, this tells you that your existing unit is about to retire and would require a replacement.

Another issue associated with old furnaces is inconsistent heating throughout the home. If you have an older furnace, you may be suffering from uneven heat distribution — some rooms are warmer than the others.

If you observe any of these noticeable signs, you may have reached a point where getting a new furnace would make more sense than trying to keep your old, inefficient unit.

For professional help, call your preferred heating company in Champaign, IL that offers a variety of furnace choices.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the best contractors in the Central Illinois area.

Overview

The ELO183 oil furnace is one of the models in Lennox’s Elite Series.

Every component of the ELO183 has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

The ELO183 residential oil furnace delivers clean, quiet and comfortable home heating. Stay warm for less with this efficient furnace that is designed to deliver lasting value and energy savings, which important, especially during the coldest months of winter.

Its high-quality components efficiently deliver heat to every room, with little maintenance required.

Features

Energy Efficiency

Compared to conventional, low to mid-efficiency furnaces, the ELO183 can help you save a considerable amount each year, thanks to its efficiency rating of up to 83 percent AFUE. An AFUE of 80% means 80 cents of every dollar spent on gas goes directly toward heating your home. That can mean potential savings of hundreds of dollars per year when compared to an older furnace.

The ELO183 has a heavy-gauge stainless steel heat exchanger that has a durable and solid design that captures waste heat, allowing the furnace to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. It allows air to glide evenly over its smooth surface for maximum heating efficiency.

Lennox backs this furnace with a 5-year Limited Warranty on covered parts and a Lifetime Limited Warranty on the heat exchanger.

Performance

Its heavy-duty fuel pump provides quiet, reliable operation with fast shutoff of oil flow.

Its innovative combustion chamber is constructed from alumina-silica ceramic fiber, provides quiet operation and high efficiency.

The ELO183 is built with a Beckett® burner. This means extremely efficient combustion for greater fuel economy throughout the heating season. It also means the burner is unaffected by drafts or poor chimney conditions.

Quiet Operation

The ELO183 has a fully insulated cabinet with patented noise-reducing construction that further minimizes operating sound to an industry-leading low level.

Its insulated blower compartment minimizes operating sounds.

Why Trust Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

Finding the right furnace can be an overwhelming task. As a matter of fact, most homeowners find it rather difficult to select the proper unit for their homes. There are certain factors to consider when deciding which furnace is best for your needs, one of which is proper sizing.

A furnace that is too small lacks the power to properly heat your home, so it will need to run longer to raise the temperature to the point of being overloaded. This causes the unit to fail and increase your utility bills. This will also create premature wear and tear as a small furnace struggles to keep up with your home’s heating needs.

On the other hand, a furnace that is too large for your home is prone to short cycling, which means the unit will shut down before the thermostat makes the right temperature readings.

To help you in making a wise choice, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We are a reputable Champaign furnace installation company serving Central Illinois since 1983.

Homeowners have been using central air for decades. Everybody loves it as it allows us to have a comfortable home environment despite living in regions with extreme weather conditions.

However, more and more homeowners are becoming disappointed with traditional HVAC systems for a number of reasons, most notably duct problems.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an average duct system leaks about 20 to 30 percent of its air. Older systems can allow up to 50 percent of heated or cooled air to escape into the ceiling or attic space causing discomfort and throwing away a lot of energy.

If you’re looking for a better alternative to central air, read on to find out more about ductless systems.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a leading HVAC company in Peoria, IL that offers ductless mini-splits created to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.

Overview

A ductless system works like a central heating or cooling system — minus the ducts. Ductless systems, also called mini-splits, have two main components – an outdoor compressor or condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. They are connected by a conduit, which houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain.

Because ductless systems do not require ductwork to move air, they eliminate the problems associated with inefficient ducts. This is one of the reasons why they are the most comfortable, quietest, and energy-efficient way to condition the air in your home.

Practical Applications

Because of their high-efficiency levels, reasonable prices and ease of installation, ductless systems are becoming the more popular choice for homeowners.

They can be used in various applications such as:

• Zoning
• Conversions
• Areas Without Ductwork
• Home Additions
• New Constructions

Benefits

Ductless systems consume less power than traditional HVAC systems. They are significantly smaller than forced-air systems, and since the heated or cooled air is delivered directly into a room, there is no loss in efficiency.

Another advantage of ductless systems over conventional air is their ease of installation. While it typically takes days to complete the installation of a conventional setup, a ductless system can be ready to use in as little as one day.

In addition, ductless systems use a refrigerant called R410A, which is known for its zero ozone exhaustion potential. A home with a ductless system installed has less impact on the environment throughout its life cycle.

On top of saving money on energy bills, homeowners may also be entitled for tax credits or utility rebates for the year they install a ductless system. There are certain programs at the federal, state and local level that allow homeowners to take advantage of these benefits.

Features of the Lennox MS8C Mini-Split Air Conditioner

• With an efficiency rating of up to 22 SEER, it keeps you comfortable without generating high utility bills
• Its inverter technology slowly ramps up the system to full speed, delivering only the air that is needed
• Its unique design makes the system safer and more efficient than traditional window units
• Indoor sound levels as low as 26 dB and outdoor levels as low as 50 dB
• Secure installation leave you less vulnerable to problems associated with window units, such as insects, weather elements, and theft
• This product uses an easy-to-use wireless remote control that allows you to change the temperature to fit your comfort needs
• Ductless design eliminates complicated installation or expensive modifications
• Small, compact design blends this model into any room

Premium Home Comfort with Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

If you need more information about the Lennox MS8C mini-split air conditioner, call an authorized Lennox dealer like Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We are a proud Lennox Premier Dealer that focuses on delivering outstanding workmanship and excellent customer service. With us, you can be sure that your brand new heat pump will be installed properly, allowing it to function as energy-efficient as possible.

Allow us to take care of your Peoria heating and air conditioning needs.

Over the years, our technicians at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning have been installing and servicing boilers to our valued customers in the Central Illinois area. Our proven track record and product knowledge make us the preferred heating company in Urbana, IL.

Our wide range of high-efficiency residential gas boilers, natural gas boilers, combination boilers, natural gas condensing and noncondensing boilers provides efficient whole-home heating, water heating or both in one advanced system.

These hot water boiler systems are an effective way to provide a consistently distributed heat throughout your home. They work quietly, safely, and minimize the accumulation of dust and other allergens, creating a clean and healthy environment that is suited for people who suffer from skin allergies or respiratory diseases.

How Does a Boiler Work?

A boiler is a water container that transfers heat from a fuel source (oil, gas, coal) into steam which is channeled to a point where it can be used to run production equipment, to sterilize, provide heat, to steam-clean and other purposes.

Benefits of Having a Boiler in Your Home

Boilers are the first choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. Solid fuels boilers can use pellets of recycled materials that are readily available and easily renewable resources. Also, oil boilers can operate on biodiesel without any need for expensive retrofitting or conversions.

Most boilers are smaller than other types of home heating systems. Combination boilers can be installed mounted on a wall and do not even have to take up any floor space. However, even floor-standing models are often slimmer and the water pipes take up much less space than air ducts.

While home-heating boilers may have a high investment cost, their operating costs are much lower than that for other heating systems. Electric heaters with metal or ceramic elements can both be very expensive, as can standard gas convection heaters.

Features of the Lennox GSB8-E Boiler

The GSB8-E offers an efficiency of up to 82.7% AFUE, meaning it can deliver significant energy savings, compared to an older boiler. That means you can relax comfortably about your energy use.

The GSB8-E includes extra attention to durability, with features like a cast-iron heat exchanger and corrosion-resistant titanium burners.  Thick fiberglass insulation adds to energy efficiency while reducing on-off temperature cycling.

The GSB8-E is available in 7 different sizes for installation nearly anywhere in your home. And if you have a traditional radiator system, the GSB8-E will integrate perfectly to provide precise heating comfort all winter long.

Depending on where you live, different types of fuel can be more expensive than others. That’s why the GSB8-E gives you a choice of heating with either natural or LP gas.

The GSB8-E is made with titanium burners and a cast iron heat exchanger. Combined, these two features provide resistance against corrosion and oxidization and will keep your boiler in great working condition for years.

Here’s a quick look at the advantages of having this model:

• Electronic ignition control burns fuel only as necessary, reducing energy costs.
• Cast iron heat exchanger designed for long-lasting durability.
• Easy integration with traditional radiator systems to provide precise heating comfort, regardless of outdoor temperatures.
• Electronic ignition control—monitors water temperature and maximizes efficiency by turning on the burner only when needed
• Thick fiberglass insulation—minimizes off-cycle heat and energy loss
• Vent damper—automatically closes when the boiler turns off, maintaining energy efficiency
• 12-Year Limited Warranty on Heat Exchanger; 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for 10-Year Limited Warranty coverage with product registration.

Ultimate Home Comfort with Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

If you are interested in this product, call our experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We will provide you with relevant information to help you in making a wise decision.

As a Lennox Premier Dealer, our main goal is to give you the best HVAC solution that meets your comfort needs. We are your trusted Urbana heating and air conditioning company serving you since 1983.

Winter is when your furnace usually works overtime, if not the whole day to keep everyone in your home comfortable and safe. However, comfort during the heating season is typically associated with high utility bills.

Keeping your furnace in tip-top shape will ensure it works at peak performance. In addition, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your energy consumption and save money, which you can use for other needs.

Call a trusted heating company in Bloomington, IL like Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning to fine tune your heating system to keep operational costs down.

Here’s a list of practical tips on how to lower your heating bills.

Put on Warm Clothes

You don’t have to make your furnace work too hard just to keep you comfortably warm. You can set your thermostat at a lower temperature by putting on layers of thick clothes that help keep you warm. According to a study, you can save 5 percent on your heating costs for every degree you drop your thermostat in the 60-degree to 70-degree range, which recommends a maximum setting of 68 degrees during the day. Putting on warm clothes is the easiest thing you can do to save money on heating.

Use Ceiling Fans

Making a few tweaks in your living space like using ceiling fans can help lower your heating bills. Since hot air naturally rises, you can set the fan on the lowest speed, that way it isn’t fast enough to produce a wind chill effect, but it’s fast enough to push down the warm air that is accumulated near the ceiling.

Make Use of Personal Heaters

Running the furnace in your entire house can be absolutely expensive. You can try using electric heating pads and slippers, which use just a small amount of electricity but you will feel much warmer, allowing you to lower your thermostat setting and spend less on heating your entire home.

Manage Your Windows

Your windows typically account for about 10 to 25 percent of your home’s heat loss. To address this issue, open curtains and shades on south-facing windows during the day when the sun is up to allow the sun’s heat to enter your home and warm it up. In the evening, keep the blinds and curtains closed to insulate your house and keep the warmth inside. You can also cover bare windows and drapes with thick blankets, especially at night when windows are not in use and the temperature is at its coldest.

Set Your Water Heater to a Lower Temperature

During winter, most homeowners use their water heaters the entire day. These appliances usually add about 14 to 25 percent to your heating costs, based on a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Most water heaters have a factory setting of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the Department of Energy recommends you can lower it down to 120 degrees and still get a comfortable water temperature. This 10-degree drop on your water heater’s setting can save at least 3 percent to 5 percent on your water heating costs.

Enhance Your Home’s Insulation

Insulation works as a barrier to heat loss, particularly in roofs and ceilings, walls and floors. With energy costs as high as they are, this could cost you hundreds of dollars per year and put an unnecessary burden on your furnace.

In many homes, insulation is the most practical and cost-effective way to make a house more energy efficient. Using particular kinds of insulation can also qualify you for federal tax credits that can save you money when tax time rolls around. It can also reduce condensation in the home, which can provide health benefits by lowering the risk of developing mold.

Clean Your Furnace Filters

Clogged filters block the airflow, which results in higher energy consumption.

A dirty furnace can easily overheat, as it needs to work harder to provide your heating requirements. Clean or replace your filters regularly to avoid the accumulation of dust and dirt within your heating system.

Need Help? Ask the Heating Pros

In addition to these steps, the single most effective way to reduce your heating costs is to have your furnace regularly serviced by a qualified technician. Annual maintenance allows your heating professional to detect issues before they even become problems, potentially saving you hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

If you are in search for a reputable Bloomington furnace repair company, call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. We have been serving homeowners throughout the Central Illinois area for over 30 years.

One of the things that cause stress to homeowners is an underperforming furnace, especially during winter. No one would want to deal with an inefficient furnace that is unable to provide you the warmth and comfort you need. Thankfully, when furnaces start losing their efficiency, they will display obvious signs.

If you have to turn your thermostat higher and higher to heat your home but it doesn’t make much of a difference, it shows that your furnace is due for a repair. This is a sign that your thermostat lacks the ability to properly circulate the air to keep your home comfortable.

It is quite normal for a furnace to produce a little bit of noise when you turn them on or off, but if the sound starts to get considerably louder, your unit may need replacing. These noises indicate problems in certain components of your furnace. For example, if you hear popping sounds, it may be because of a delayed rough ignition due to dirty burners or a loose or dirty filter getting pulled against its frame, or a loose blower door. If you hear a rattling noise, it may be due to unsecured ductwork, loose screws or sheet metal. It may also mean the blower motor is not properly balanced.

In addition, if you notice a steady rise in your utility bills without a comparable increase in use, consider replacing your furnace. The amount of money you save in the long run can help you pay for a new, more efficient heating system.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a heating company in Peoria, IL that can help you find the right furnace for your home.

In partnership with Lennox Industries, we give you an array of innovative furnaces designed to enhance your home comfort.

Overview

The SLO185V is one of the models in Lennox’s Signature Series.

The SLO185V furnace operates at different speeds to maximize comfort while minimizing sound levels and energy costs. Quality components inside and out give you the assurance of long-lasting performance.

Features

Energy Efficiency

Compared to conventional, low to mid-efficiency furnaces, the SLP98V can help you save hundreds of dollars each year, thanks to its efficiency rating of up to 97 percent AFUE.

The SLO185V has a heavy-gauge stainless steel heat exchanger that has a durable and solid design that captures waste heat, allowing the furnace to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. It allows air to glide evenly over its smooth surface for maximum heating efficiency.

Performance

This model’s blower motor has a variable-speed control that automatically adjusts according to the room’s temperature, giving you the speed that is best suited to the room’s requirements.

Its variable-speed motor provides a quiet and consistent flow of air for an ideal balance of temperature and humidity throughout your home.

Its innovative combustion chamber is constructed from alumina-silica ceramic fiber, provides quiet operation and high efficiency.

The SLO185V is built with a Beckett® burner. This means extremely efficient combustion for greater fuel economy throughout the heating season. It also means the burner is unaffected by drafts or poor chimney conditions.

Quiet Operation

Its SilentComfort technology combines advanced engineering with sound-absorbing components to deliver the best in quiet performance. Compared to other competitive models, the SLO185V is up to several times quieter, making your home a lot more relaxing.

The SLO185V has a fully insulated cabinet with patented noise-reducing construction that further minimizes operating sound to an industry-leading low level.

Its heavy-duty fuel pump—provides quiet, reliable operation with fast shutoff of oil flow.

Ask the Heating Pros

Lennox makes energy-efficient furnaces, including the SLO185, which is one of the best in its price range. You need to have it installed by a qualified technician so you can enjoy the features and benefits this product offers.

Call Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning for more information about the SLO185 and we’ll help you make the right decision. We are your trusted Peoria furnace installation company serving Central Illinois since 1983.

Are you one of the many homeowners who keep on having issues in maintaining a consistent temperature throughout their home? If so, you may need to have a technician pay you a visit to have your entire HVAC system inspected. Inconsistent heating or cooling can be caused by several factors, one of which is an improperly sized system or an inefficient ductwork.

Damaged ducts can cause you a lot of problems including higher utility bills, compromised indoor air quality, and hot or cold spots in certain areas of your home. A more serious problem can happen if you have a gas-fired furnace which releases carbon monoxide through a leaking ductwork. This is a very harmful gas that can cause severe health issues.

A heat pump is a practical and economical way to heat or cool certain areas in your home where ductwork is unavailable. They are also a great alternative if you are thinking about upgrading from central air to a more energy-efficient HVAC zoned system.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a leading HVAC company in Bloomington, IL that offers energy efficient heat pumps designed to heat or cool specific areas in your home.

Benefits of Heat Pumps

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Dirt, dust and other debris can accumulate in the interior of your ductwork, which can eventually lead to poor indoor air quality. Ductless mini-splits utilize advanced filtration media to trap airborne pollutants and prevent cross-contamination between different rooms.

Easy Installation

Traditional HVAC systems need a duct network to deliver conditioned air into each room in the building. On the other hand, heat pumps are a great choice for room additions because they are designed to serve specific zones.

Lower Operating Noise

Since heat pumps operate at a very low pace, they are much quieter than conventional HVAC systems.

Features of  the Lennox Merit^® Series 14HPX Heat Pump

With an efficiency rating of up to 16.00 SEER / 8.20 HSPF, this product can save you hundreds of dollars each year, compared to a standard heat pump.

Its dependable scroll compressor provides smooth, efficient, and reliable operation.

Its High-Efficiency Outdoor Coil provides exceptional heat transfer and low air resistance for high-efficiency operation.

The 14HPX’s precision-balanced direct-drive fan delivers quiet operation with a patented-pending fan design.

Its high-efficiency outdoor coil provides exceptional heat transfer and low air resistance for high-efficiency operation.

It is designed to work with the Humiditrol whole-home dehumidification system.

The 14HPX’s sound levels as low as 76 dB are much quieter than a standard heat pump.

It uses a PermaGuard Cabinet, which is a heavy-gauge, galvanized steel construction, louver coil guard, baked-on powder finish and durable zinc-coated steel base provides long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.

Its chlorine-free R-410A refrigerant provides exceptional comfort without exacting a costly environmental toll.

Drainage holes prevent damaging moisture from collecting inside the basepan.

Ask the Experts in Home Comfort

This product will only operate at peak performance if properly set up. Poor installation will compromise its efficiency which will cause you discomfort and higher utility bills. It is recommended to have a qualified team of technicians to install your unit.

If you are considering getting the Lennox Merit^® Series 14HPX Heat Pump, call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. We are a Dave Lennox Premier Dealer that values exceptional workmanship and customer service.

Customer satisfaction is our number one priority. We believe that you deserve no less than exceptional HVAC products and services.

We care about our customers that’s why we use the best in the business: NATE-certified technicians, friendly office staff, outstanding products from the best manufacturers in the industry such as Lennox.

Since 1983, we have been employing the best business practices; that is why our customers continue to put their trust in us.

Whatever your Bloomington heating and air conditioning needs may be, we are here to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

We will ensure you are satisfied with your experience doing business with us.

If you are looking for a dependable heating system and you have already considered central air and heat pumps, do not be in a hurry to get one just yet. You might want to look at having a water boiler installed in your home.

This type of heating system circulates hot water, or steam, through your home’s heat distribution system. The hot water or steam is delivered through a series of pipes and into a radiator to generate heat.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a leading HVAC company in Normal, IL that offers energy efficient water boilers that are a great alternative to traditional ducted HVAC systems.

This article highlights the Lennox GWB8-IE Gas-Fired Water Boiler, a reliable way to stay warm and save energy.

Benefits of Boilers

Greater Efficiency

Boilers can generate heat without the need of passing through any ducts, enabling your system to have virtually no heat loss. This translates to lower energy bills due to a reduction in your heating system’s overall fuel consumption.

Quiet Operation

These heating systems operate quietly, giving you peace of mind.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Since boilers do not utilize ducts, they do not distribute dirt, dust, pollen, and even allergens. This is something you need to consider if you have people in your home that are suffering from allergies since they need to breathe clean air to avoid their allergies from being triggered.

Space-Saving

Most boilers are smaller than other types of home heating systems. Combination boilers can be installed mounted on a wall and do not even have to take up any floor space. However, even floor-standing models are often slimmer and the water pipes take up much less space than air ducts.

Features of the Lennox GWB8-IE Gas-Fired Water Boiler

The GWB8-IE offers an efficiency of up to 84.4% AFUE, meaning it can deliver significant energy savings compared to an older boiler. So even if winter brings its worst, you’ll stay comfortable without worrying about energy use.

The GWB8-IE includes extra attention to durability, with features like a cast-iron heat exchanger and corrosion-resistant titanium burners.  Thick fiberglass insulation adds to energy efficiency while reducing on-off temperature cycling.

The GWB8-IE is available in 6 different sizes for installation nearly anywhere in your home. And if you have a traditional radiator system, the GWB8-IE will integrate perfectly to provide precise heating comfort all winter long.

Depending on where you live, different types of fuel can be more expensive than others. That’s why the GWB8-IE gives you a choice of heating with either natural or LP gas.

The GWB8-IE is made with titanium burners and a cast iron heat exchanger. Combined, these two features provide resistance against corrosion and oxidization and will keep your boiler in great working condition for years.

Here are some of the other advantages of having this model:

• Electronic ignition control burns fuel only as necessary, reducing energy costs.
• Cast iron heat exchanger designed for long-lasting durability.
• Easy integration with traditional radiator systems to provide precise heating comfort, regardless of outdoor temperatures.
• Electronic ignition control—monitors water temperature and maximizes efficiency by turning on the burner only when needed
• Thick fiberglass insulation—minimizes off-cycle heat and energy loss
• Vent damper—automatically closes when the boiler turns off, maintaining energy efficiency
• 20-Year Limited Warranty on Heat Exchanger; 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for 10-Year Limited Warranty coverage with product registration.

Ultimate Home Comfort with Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

If you are considering having this product set up in your home, call our experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning.

Our technicians are factory trained and certified to ensure all systems we install are set up according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This will guarantee your boiler will work at peak performance, giving you maximum comfort at minimum operational cost.

Call us for any Normal heating and air conditioning needs you may have.

Having a furnace in your home is an essential convenience needed to protect your family from the effects of exposure to extremely cold weather. Just like how you take care of your car, your heating system also needs special care and attention to ensure it serves you as long as it should.

Annual maintenance is an important step in keeping your furnace work at peak performance, giving you great comfort and excellent energy efficiency.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning is a trusted heating company in Urbana, IL that has the knowledge, experience, and skills to properly maintain any furnace make and model.

Here are a few important reasons why you should consider having your furnace inspected by a professional regularly.

Get Lower Energy Costs

A furnace that runs smoothly uses less energy, thus, costs less to operate. Provided that your home is properly insulated and no heated air escapes during the winter, a well-maintained heating system will do its job effortlessly.

Avoid Stressful Emergencies

Annual maintenance allows your technician to detect issues on your furnace before they even become serious problems. If your furnace breaks down in the middle of the winter, it will need to be fixed right away, and most likely at a premium rate.

Keep Your Indoor Air Clean

Your furnace doesn’t only provide your home with heat, it also plays a significant part in the quality of the air you breathe. A furnace that doesn’t undergo regular maintenance can release carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas. Exposure to this gas has negative effects on your health that include dull headaches, weakness, dizziness, vomiting, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision and loss of consciousness.

Regular replacement of filters, cleaning of ducts, and coils will ensure your furnace traps dirt, dust, and debris. This is particularly important if you have children, people aged 60 or more, or family members who have pre-existing respiratory issues.

Avoid Costly Repairs

In order for your furnace to operate efficiently, it needs proper airflow. Not only does your filter keep your air clean, it also blocks dust, dirt, and debris from entering the internal parts of your furnace. When airflow is compromised, it causes your fan motor to overwork, which uses more energy. This causes damage to the system and increases your utility bills in the process.

Dust, dirt, and debris buildup can cause your unit to experience multiple issues such as frozen evaporator coils and diminished heating, which shortens your unit’s life expectancy.

Your filter needs to be replaced regularly especially if you have pets, smokers, or if you keep household cleaning items.

Extend Your Furnace’s Lifespan

Annual maintenance not only saves you money on utilities and repairs, it also helps prolong your furnace’s lifespan. A professional furnace maintenance service includes cleaning of ducts and coils, replacement of filters, which ensures the unit will run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. To put it simply, the less force the furnace releases, the longer it will last.

Keep Your Unit Under Warranty

Furnace manufacturers typically recommend annual maintenance by a qualified technician. Most of the time, damage to the furnace caused by improper maintenance is not covered under warranty. You wouldn’t want to risk losing your warranty as repair and replacement parts can be really expensive. Usually, the cost of annual maintenance outweighs the cost of emergency repairs, inefficient unit, and the negative health effects of a poorly performing furnace.

Professional Furnace Maintenance with Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning

Keeping your furnace in great shape plays an important part in keeping your family comfortable and safe during winter. You can’t afford to let someone not qualified to handle your furnace. It is highly recommended to call a licensed, certified, and trained technician to perform the necessary inspections, adjustments, and repairs on your heating system.

Our experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning have multiple years of hands-on experience and are certified to install, repair, and maintain all furnace brands and models.

Our only goal is to keep our customers satisfied, that is why we only hire the best HVAC professionals in the Central Illinois area. If you entrust your furnace annual maintenance with us, you can be guaranteed to have ultimate comfort at the most reasonable costs.

If you’re looking for the best Urbana furnace repair contractor, we are the company to call.

Your old furnace costs more to operate and maintain compared to having a brand new unit. Upgrading to a new unit isn’t a preference, but a necessity because of the benefits it offers.

Compared to old furnaces, new models are capable of distributing heated air more evenly. Consistent temperature throughout your home means less energy consumption for the unit and greater comfort for you and your family.

One of the main complaints homeowners talk about their furnaces is that they tend to produce loud noises. This may be caused by old furnace parts starting to get loose while the unit runs. These loose parts will require immediate attention because if they are neglected, they may cause even more serious problems.

Older units only have 55 percent to 70 percent efficiency, which means 30 to 45 cents of every dollar spent on heating goes up the chimney or elsewhere. Newer models are much more energy-efficient, helping you save on your heating costs.

There are a lot of furnace models available on the market today and most homeowners find it overwhelming to find the right model for their home. It is recommended to consult your preferred heating company in Normal, IL to get professional help in deciding which particular furnace you should take home.

Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning works in partnership with Lennox Industries to offer you an array of innovative furnaces that can help you solve your heating problems.

This article features the ML180E, one of the models in Lennox’s Merit Series of furnaces. It is an economical gas furnace equipped with Power Saver technology.

Features of the Merit^® Series ML180E Gas Furnace

Every component of the ML180E has proven itself through extensive testing in our research labs. So you can take comfort knowing the furnace will deliver reliable performance, season after season.

From its heavy-gauge steel cabinet and aluminized steel heat exchanger to its sealed blower compartment, the ML180 is built to deliver reliable comfort, year after year.

An AFUE of 80% means 80 cents of every dollar spent on gas goes directly toward heating your home. That can mean potential savings of hundreds of dollars per year when compared to an older furnace.

Its Power Saver technology not only provides energy boost capabilities improving the overall system efficiency, similar to a variable speed furnace, but also delivers higher SEER ratings in cooling mode. In continuous fan mode, this technology helps keep energy waste to a minimum.

When the ML180E is paired with a Lennox® heat pump, it creates a system that can automatically alternate between electricity and gas to keep you warm. So you’re always using the most energy-efficient way to keep comfortable.

The ML180E has a Duralok Plus heat exchanger that is constructed from patented ArmorTuf steel that captures waste heat, and a stainless steel secondary heat exchanger that allows the unit to achieve industry-leading efficiency levels. This solid component exceeds industry requirements and extends the furnace’s life.

Its Power Saver motor operates at constant torque to help maintain consistent airflow.

Its hot surface igniter controls furnace operation to ensure reliable, efficient performance.

The ML180E’s sealed blower compartment minimizes losses and maximizes efficiency and comfort.

With product registration, the ML180E may be eligible for a 10-year Limited Extended Warranty. Lennox also offers a 5-year Limited Warranty on covered parts and 20-Year Warranty on the Heat Exchanger.

How Bratcher Heating and Conditioning Can Help

You can’t just walk into a dealership and pick a furnace. It’s a little bit more complicated than that. While your budget may be the primary concern, selecting the right furnace for your home involves certain considerations to ensure you’re going home with the best furnace that meets your needs.

For a more informed decision, call our experts at Bratcher Heating and Air Conditioning. Our technicians have multiple years of experience and training to ensure the system we endorse is the best for your situation. We take into consideration your budget, materials in your home, other appliances, and certain requirements before making an official recommendation.

Call us for Normal furnace installation or any other HVAC-related concerns you may have.