Upgrading the Heating and Cooling System in Your Older Home
Upgrading the Heating and Cooling System in Your Older Home: Best Options for Comfort and Energy Efficiency
If you live in an older home in Oregon—whether it’s in Portland, Beaverton, or Lake Oswego—there’s a good chance your heating and cooling system is outdated and inefficient. Older homes often rely on aging HVAC systems that not only fail to deliver consistent comfort but also result in higher energy bills. Upgrading your system can significantly improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and overall value. In this blog, we’ll explore the best options for upgrading heating and cooling systems in older homes and explain how modern HVAC solutions are better suited to Oregon’s climate.
Understanding the Heating and Cooling Systems in Older Homes
Boiler Systems
Many older Oregon homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, use boiler systems for heating. These systems heat water and distribute it through radiators or baseboards. While boilers provide steady, reliable heat, they are far less efficient than today’s heating options. Older boilers often have an AFUE rating as low as 56% to 70%, meaning a significant amount of energy is wasted. Replacing an outdated boiler with a modern high-efficiency system can drastically reduce energy costs and improve comfort.
Oil or Gas Furnaces
Oil and gas furnaces are also common in older homes. While newer gas furnaces are highly efficient, many older models still in use today have AFUE ratings below 80%. Oil furnaces, in particular, are less efficient and more expensive to operate than modern natural gas systems. Upgrading to a high-efficiency gas furnace with an AFUE rating of up to 98% can dramatically improve energy savings and deliver consistent warmth during Oregon’s cold and damp winters.
Electric Baseboard Heating
Some older homes in Oregon still rely on electric baseboard heaters, which are known for being highly inefficient and costly to operate. These systems provide inconsistent heat and struggle to maintain comfort throughout an entire home. Upgrading from electric baseboard heating to a modern system, such as a heat pump or a ductless mini-split system, can significantly improve efficiency and comfort, especially in homes with limited ductwork.
Modernizing your heating and cooling system is essential for keeping your older Oregon home comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the year. Upgrading to a system that suits the unique needs of your home and Oregon’s climate ensures long-term savings and better overall performance.
Comparing the Efficiency of Modern HVAC Systems
Modern Gas Furnaces
Today’s gas furnaces are much more efficient than older models, with many boasting AFUE ratings of 90% to 98%. This means that nearly all of the fuel used is converted into heat, reducing waste and lowering energy bills. Additionally, modern furnaces come with two-stage or variable-speed motors, which help maintain more consistent temperatures and improve energy savings.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to upgrade their HVAC systems. They offer both heating and cooling in a single unit by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. Modern heat pumps can achieve impressive efficiency ratings, especially cold-climate heat pumps, which are designed to work efficiently even in temperatures as low as 5°F. These systems are ideal for Oregon homeowners looking for an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solution.
Ductless Mini-Splits
For homes without existing ductwork, ductless mini-split systems are a great option. These units provide both heating and cooling and are highly efficient because they don’t lose energy through ducts. Mini-splits allow for zoned temperature control, meaning different areas of the home can be set to different temperatures, reducing energy waste and improving comfort.
Geothermal Systems
If you’re looking for the ultimate in efficiency, geothermal heat pumps use the constant temperature of the earth to heat and cool your home. While these systems have a higher upfront cost, they can provide significant long-term savings on energy bills. With a geothermal system, you can expect to see energy savings of up to 70% compared to traditional HVAC systems.
Best Upgrades for Maximum Comfort and Value
1. Replacing Your Furnace with a High-Efficiency Model
For homeowners in Oregon with older gas or oil furnaces, upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace is a no-brainer. Newer models not only reduce your energy consumption but also provide quieter operation, better temperature control, and improved indoor air quality. A furnace upgrade is an excellent way to improve comfort and energy efficiency in your home without the need for extensive renovations.
2. Installing a Heat Pump for Year-Round Comfort
If you want a system that provides both heating and cooling, consider replacing your old system with a heat pump. Heat pumps are ideal for moderate climates like Oregon’s, where summers are warm, and winters can be cold but not extreme. With cold-climate heat pump technology, you’ll benefit from efficient heating even during the colder months. In addition, because heat pumps also serve as air conditioners, they offer year-round value by handling your cooling needs in the summer.
3. Ductless Mini-Split Systems for Homes Without Ductwork
If your older home doesn’t have ductwork—or if adding ducts would be too expensive or invasive—ductless mini-split systems are an excellent alternative. These systems are incredibly efficient, offer zoned control, and are relatively easy to install compared to traditional systems. Plus, their compact design makes them perfect for homes with limited space.
4. Upgrading to Smart Thermostats
Whether you choose to upgrade your furnace, heat pump, or mini-split system, consider adding a smart thermostat to your system. These devices allow for better temperature control, can learn your preferences, and adjust settings based on your schedule. They also provide remote access, meaning you can adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere. A smart thermostat can improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and help lower energy bills by preventing waste.
5. Improving Insulation and Sealing Air Leaks
Even the most efficient HVAC system won’t perform well if your home is poorly insulated. Older homes often have insufficient insulation, leading to significant energy loss. Adding or improving insulation, particularly in the attic, walls, and basement, can make a huge difference in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork is another cost-effective way to maximize the performance of your heating and cooling system.
Local Incentives and Rebates for HVAC Upgrades in Oregon
Homeowners in Oregon and surrounding areas can take advantage of local incentives and rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Many utility companies offer rebates for installing high-efficiency furnaces, heat pumps, or smart thermostats. Additionally, federal tax credits may be available for certain energy-efficient upgrades. Our team at Aviator Heating & Cooling can help you navigate these incentives to make the most of your investment.
Start Saving By Upgrading The HVAC System In Your Older Home Today!
If your home in Oregon has an outdated heating and cooling system, upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system is one of the best investments you can make. Not only will you save money on energy bills, but you’ll also enjoy improved comfort and peace of mind, knowing your system is reliable and environmentally friendly. Whether you choose to install a new high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, or mini-split system, Aviator Heating & Cooling is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let our expert technicians guide you through the best HVAC upgrade options for your older home. We proudly serve homeowners in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Portland, Tigard, Aloha, and the surrounding areas. Start improving your home’s comfort and efficiency today!
If you'd like to schedule an estimate to upgrade the HVAC system in your older home please give us a call (503) 770-4822 or fill out our online estimate request form and we'll get right back to you.
