Franzen Heating & Cooling FAQ: furnace

Yes, in most areas, a permit is required for furnace replacement or installation. We handle all permits and inspections for you as part of our installation service.

If your furnace is more than 12–15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or isn't heating your home efficiently, replacement may save you more money long-term. We can inspect your system and help you decide the most cost-effective path.

AFUE is an acronym for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency.

For example, if you get a bill for $100 for using your furnace, which is 50% efficient, you put $50 worth of heat in your home and $50 worth of heat outside.

A high-efficiency furnace typically has an AFUE rating of 90% or higher, meaning it converts 90%+ of its fuel into usable heat. These systems are ENERGY STAR® certified and can significantly reduce your energy bills.

Most heating systems are reliable and provide quick, comfortable heat when you need it – if you take good care of the system. If you have air conditioning, shut it down and cover it for the winter. Please follow these steps prior to furnace use:

1. Clean or change the furnace filter.
2. If your furnace or boiler has a pilot light, ensure it is on.
3. Set the furnace to the “heat” position. Turn up the thermostat.
4. Let the furnace run through a couple of cycles to make sure it’s working properly.
5. Perform a quick visual inspection of the furnace area to make sure there are no items that could interfere with airflow or combustion.
6. Call or text Franzen Heating & Cooling to arrange for professional cleaning, inspection, and precision tune-up services. 

Yes, annual maintenance on the unit extends its life and reduces annual operating costs. Yearly maintenance inspections can spot small problems before they become large and expensive repairs.

This depends on the type of filter and how you use your furnace. Review the types of filters from the list below:

Disposable filters: A disposable filter should be changed every 6 to 8 weeks. This type isn’t very efficient and provides only a basic amount of air cleaning. If your furnace fan runs continuously, it should be cleaned every 3 to 4 weeks.

Electrostatic air cleaner: Electrostatic air cleaners should be cleaned monthly. To do so, vacuum the nylon media and then rinse the filter with water. Be sure to rinse in the opposite direction of the airflow. The older the filter, the more difficult it will be to clean.

Electronic air cleaner (EAC): An EAC works well until the cells get dirty. When cleaning the cells, don’t break any of the thin wires on the outside of the cells. If a wire breaks, the EAC won’t work. Be sure to clean the prescreens as well.

Hammock: Hammock filters must be washed and replaced every 8 to 10 weeks. When you purchase a replacement hammock filter, it might be larger than the metal frame it’s attached to. Simply install the filter on the frame and trim off the excess.

Large, pleated media filter: You should replace the media cartridge annually. Have the cartridge replaced at the same time as your annual maintenance service.

Washable filters: Clean washable filters every 6 to 8 weeks. If you run your furnace fan continuously, you should wash filters every 3 to 4 weeks. If there is visual degradation, please replace the filter.