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When Should My Furnace Be Inspected?

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HVAC contractor inspecting a furnace

Ideally, your furnace should work efficiently for 18-20 years… if maintained professionally throughout this time.

This leaves many of our clients asking, “When should my furnace be inspected?” because they want to ensure they’re not prematurely replacing a piece of HVAC equipment that could last longer.

How Often Should a Furnace Be Inspected?

Most experts agree: your home’s furnace should be inspected once a year per system. In short, you should schedule an inspection once for your heating system, and once for cooling.

Most HVAC repair contractors report that up to 75% of no-heat calls in the winter are due to poor or no maintenance/servicing of home furnaces.

What’s the Purpose of Inspection?

If your home’s furnace is left to its own devices, it will likely cease functioning altogether and leave your family “out in the cold.” Most issues and complaints about furnaces in the winter are fairly simple fixes that could have been caught during a routine yearly inspection, such as a filter needing to be cleaned or an easy system reset.

Inspections save your wallet from unnecessary costs in the middle of winter, when a system-failure would be most frustrating and expensive. Inspections also ensure that nothing more dangerous will occur to your home in the case of a furnace malfunction.

How Much Does Furnace Inspection Cost and Include?

While it varies by area and severity of need, the average cost for a furnace inspection is $50-$80. Some heating repair companies even offer financing options. While in your home, your HVAC technician will likely check a myriad of things to ensure the proper functioning of your furnace. Those include:

  • Analyzing the furnace filter to ensure it doesn’t need a replacement
  • Checking for leaks/blockages
  • Inspecting the heat exchanger for corrosion or cracks
  • Examining and cleaning the blower and all related components
  • Testing thermostat calibration
  • Ensuring all motor parts are properly lubricated
  • Checking burner for optimal ignition and operation
  • Analyzing the belt system for signs of wear or cracks
  • Cleaning the fan blades and drain line
  • Testing the air flow and fuel pressure
  • Any other elements your technician deems necessary for your furnace

Are There Furnace Maintenance Plans?

Many HVAC companies offer furnace maintenance plans as a means of protection for both you and your home. They often incur a small monthly fee, and can include anything from annual check-ups, discounts on repair services, emergency services, incident coverages and priority scheduling.

Having a furnace maintenance plan will encourage and ensure proper upkeep of a home’s furnace system without the homeowner having to think much about it much at all. Ask your provider if they offer a maintenance plan; it may be well worth the investment to mitigate panic or frustration mid-winter!

Here at WM Buffington Company Inc., we believe that scheduled maintenance is critical in keeping your heating system running safely and economically efficient. We are proud to offer our customers a Planned Maintenance Program, for which you can sign up either one time or two times/year.

Taking preventative measures is necessary to ensure that your home and family are protected year-round. The benefits of a Planned Maintenance Program are:

  • Heating system inspected & cleaned annually by an expert technician
  • Discounted rates on services and products
  • Priority service & guaranteed 24-hour response to any service call
  • Diagnostic fee waived if repair is needed
  • No overtime charges

WM Buffington is your Central Pennsylvania and Harrisburg heating expert! Your heating system is plagued with one of the hardest jobs: keeping your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the winter.

Whether you need a new heating system installed or a furnace repaired, our NATE-certified technicians offer expert services and take care of our customers’ heating troubles, leaving them relaxed and worry-free.

Don’t wait! Contact us today.

Geothermal Heat Pumps: Everything You Should Know

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Geothermal heat pump how it works diagram

If you’re passionate about sustainable, renewable energy produced by and sourced from the earth, you likely have heard about geothermal energy.

As utility bills and home care costs rise, more and more people are becoming interested in alternative methods of home maintenance. Geothermal heat pumps are one of those methods, and for good reason! Keep reading for everything you should know about geothermal heat pumps.

What is a Geothermal Heat Pump?

This central system of heating and cooling taps into the ground temperature (which is warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer) to circulate air in the home. Unlike classic furnaces and boilers, many geothermal heat pumps can both heat and cool the home. Geothermal heat pumps are made up of two main components:

  1. A geothermal heat pump (located inside the house)
  2. Underground pipe system (called ground loops)
Illustration of how geothermal heat pumps pump air into the home
Image sourced from dandelionenergy.com

How does it work? Simply put, geothermal heat pumps “pull” the warm air from the ground during cold months to heat your home, and pump hot air back into the earth during warm months. The system utilizes a water-based solution for circulation.

The best part: because the earth maintains a consistent 50 degrees below the frostline year round, no matter the season, geothermal heat pumps can be installed in any climate, in any location.

How Efficient is It?

One of its best features, geothermal heat pumps boast one of the highest efficiency rates in the HVAC industry. For every one unit of energy used to power the system, four units of energy are supplied to your home through either heating or cooling. This is a 400% efficiency rate. Even the newest, highest-efficiency furnaces only claim a rate of 96% efficiency on average.

Additionally, geothermal heat pumps last up to 25 years, and require electricity for power. In the case of a power outage, ensure your home has a backup generator.

Types of Geothermal Heat Pumps

Which geothermal system suits your needs best? Depends on what you have available, and the kind of property where you reside!

  • Closed Loop Horizontal: The most typical choice for a residential property, utilizing a closed loop system of looped pipes underground and an antifreeze solution therein.
  • Closed Loop Vertical: Best setup for a commercial space, where minimal impact on the surrounding land needs to be made (pipes are dug deeper–20 feet apart and 100 to 400 feet deep).
  • Closed Loop Pond/Lake: If the property has an adequate body of water, the pipes can be installed in the water; this option may be homeowners’ lowest cost option.
  • Open Loop: This system works best when there is an adequate source of clean water (i.e. well water) that can be used in the piping system to heat or cool the home, and then be disposed of back into the water source to be recycled, as it were.

Maintaining a Geothermal Heat Pump

As with any HVAC system, geothermal heat pumps require regular maintenance and upkeep to function at optimal efficiency.

  • At least twice per year, the air filters should be checked and replaced, to encourage proper functioning of the system.
  • Antifreeze levels should be analyzed yearly by a certified technician.
  • All parts should be cleaned during routine maintenance.
  • Ductwork and piping should be inspected yearly by an HVAC expert.

Cost and Installation

Geothermal heat pumps don’t come cheap.

They will save money and produce more efficiency than any other system in the industry, but to no surprise for experts in HVAC, it comes at a cost upfront. While there are variations in price due to the size of the project or home, the average cost of a geothermal heat pump installation is $20,000.

While the initial investment can be a deterrent for some homeowners, be assured: if you can afford to install one, a geothermal heat pump will save up to 50% on your heating and cooling costs year-round.

Who can install a geothermal heat pump in your home? Only some HVAC companies service geothermal equipment in your home. If you’re looking for a trustworthy company that does, go online and review their services to see if geothermal is part of them. If it’s not directly on their website, try giving them a call to ask.

If you need any assistance with your HVAC system in your home, contact us today. We know HVAC.

How Much Does it Cost to Install a New Furnace?

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Furnace installation

Thinking about getting your furnace replaced or looking to install a new furnace system? Many homeowners that live in colder climates desire a furnace that can run through any temperature. When the snow season comes round, your furnace will be the source of your comfort so you aren’t piling the blankets to keep you warm.

But is a new furnace in your budget? And if so, which type of furnace will best suit your needs?

Depending on the location of the furnace that needs to be replaced, the size of the home, as well as the type of furnace, the average cost can range from $2,000 to $8,000. 

The national average is $6,000 for a full furnace installation. This includes the furnace itself, labor fees, ductwork, removal, and disposal of the old furnace, as well as other installation costs or upgrades included.

While gas-powered furnaces are the most popular, oil and electric furnaces are options as well. 

Furnace TypeAverage Unit CostAverage Installation Cost
Natural Gas Furnace Installation$1,825$5,500
Propane Gas Furnace Installation$1,400$3,750
Oil Furnace Installation$1,500$4,000
Electric Furnace Installation$850$3,000


The Cost Differences Between Gas, Oil, and Electric Furnaces

There are more furnace choices than you may think! Each type of furnace has its own purpose and benefit. While all furnaces are made to keep you warm in your home, there are upsides and downsides for the various furnaces we list below. Depending on the furnace type, you’ll find that the price differs.

Take a look at the prices and benefits of each furnace to determine which furnace is right for your home.

Natural Gas Furnace Installation Costs

Average Cost of Unit: $1,825

Average Cost of Installation: $5,500

Gas furnaces are the most commonly found furnace unit in homes to date. Gas (methanol) is piped into the municipal line which leads to the gas burner igniting and the hot combustion gas then raises the temperature of the air. Natural gas furnaces have some of the lowest yearly costs and are overall less harmful to the environment in comparison to oil or propane. However, there needs to be a gas line in place near the location of the home which may not be the case in more rural areas. 

The average cost for the individual unit is a minimum of $650 to a maximum of $3,000. The total cost averages from $3,000 to $8,000 including installation. However, if you currently have an electric furnace, there will be an additional cost to convert to gas which includes installing a gas line at about $200 to $500 more.

Propane Furnace Installation Cost

Average Cost of Unit: $1,400

Average Cost of Installation: $3,750

Propane furnaces are a good option for areas where natural gas or other materials are unavailable. However, heating costs vary greatly depending on the efficiency of the furnace you choose. A propane tank would also need to be installed, and propane gas can vary in price depending on the location of your home. The propane converts to gas once it is released, the gas then ignites and heats up which forces hot air through the ducts. 

The average cost for the individual unit is a minimum of $800 and a maximum of $2,000. The total cost varies from $2,500 to $5,000 including installation. However, the brand and the size of the furnace greatly impact the total price.

Oil Furnace Installation Cost

Average Cost of Unit: $1,500

Average Cost of Installation: $4,000

Oil furnaces are also known as a pressure burner. Oil is sprayed into a combustion chamber at a high pressure which is then ignited by an electric spark. The oil continues to burn as the oil mist is sprayed. Oil also burns hotter than gas, producing maximum heat, however heating up the oil costs more than gas in the long run.

The average cost for the individual unit is a minimum of $500 and a maximum of $2,500. The total cost averages $3,000 to $5,000 including installation. 

Electric Furnace Installation Cost

Average Cost of unit: $850

Average Cost of Installation: $3,000

Electric furnaces only use electricity, which is the most efficient method of heating, however, it creates a higher electricity bill in the end. They are also less intensive to install than a gas furnace. It is extremely important to have the right furnace for the size of your house or else it will either run constantly or turn on and off too frequently, wearing it down.

The average cost for the individual unit is a minimum of $700 to a maximum of $1,100. The average installation cost is $2,000 to $4,000 including the installation. Electric is typically cheaper to install than a gas furnace, however, there are higher operational costs. 

What Affects the Price of a Furnace?

1. Location

Prices for furnaces can vary from state to state. Certain permits are required depending on where the furnace is located. Some rural areas don’t have access to propane or gas lines which could affect your furnace options.

2. Brand 

The brand of the furnace also affects the price due to the fact that some are higher in quality, or can sustain a larger space than others. Some brands are meant for bigger houses with more square footage, while others are meant for smaller homes. Upgrades or higher efficiency brands can also increase the cost.

3. Space

The aree where the furnace is located can also be a factor in the cost due to the difficulty of installation and therefore the labor cost may be higher. The size of the building or house also greatly impacts the price since a larger space will need a larger unit. The price will also be affected if you are changing the style of the unit to one that requires more space, or a different location in the home.

4. Previous Furnace Type

Previous furnace types also affect the price. If there was previously an electric furnace installed and is being replaced by a gas furnace, there would need to be gas lines installed, which would increase costs anywhere from $200 to $500. There may also need to be additional ductwork installed which can also increase labor costs.

5. Labor 

Typically, labor can cost anywhere from $75 to $100 an hour depending on the company and area as well as the complexity of the job. There could be an additional $50 an hour for an assistant. As well as charges for inspection of the furnace ranging from $200 to $260. 

Choose a Trustworthy HVAC Company for Furnace Installations

As you can tell, there are huge gaps in the cost of installing a furnace based on multiple factors. However, the most important factor, and definitely the one that affects the price the most, is the HVAC company that services you.

WM Buffington has installed furnaces in the Central Pennsylvania area since 1952 while providing the best price on labor costs. If you’re looking to install a new furnace, contact our certified team of technicians to get the best furnace for the best price.

Stay cozy Pennsylvania!

5 Advantages of Owning a Dehumidifier for a Safer Home

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Couple in heated house in front of fan
Whole home dehumidifier
Bryant whole home dehumidifier


As a homeowner in the Pennsylvania area, you may be experiencing some of the downsides of the humid continental climate throughout the year, like allergies, mold, and unwanted odors. In order to make your home a more comfortable environment for you and your family, a whole-house dehumidifier may be exactly what you’re missing. 

There are a couple of options when it comes to reducing the humidity of your home. You can purchase a mobile unit for a single room or a whole-house unit that would need to be professionally installed.


Not only will a dehumidifier make your home a more comfortable place to live, but it has many health benefits as well. 

1. Relieve Allergy Symptoms

Allergies can be a major cause of discomfort and agitation for people throughout the seasons. Something you may not have thought about before to help ease the symptoms of allergies is a dehumidifier. 

Unfortunately, allergies thrive in environments that stay damp or humid for long periods of time. A dehumidifier will reduce the water molecules that are in the air causing allergens to stick around. It can work in conjunction with your air conditioning unit and help improve the air quality in your home.

If you live in a high humidity area and struggle to find relief from your allergies, a dehumidifier could be a simple, effective solution. 

2. Reduce the Effects of Asthma

Moisture in the air contributes to mold which is a major contributing factor to childhood asthma. 

A dehumidifier can help reduce irritation in your respiratory tract and system which can cause difficulty breathing and increase the symptoms of asthma.

Although there are many other factors that contribute to asthma, keeping a house free of allergens, dust mites, mold, and mildew will help you and your family breathe better. 

3. Prevent Mold and Mildew

According to the Center for Disease Control mold and mildew exposure can lead to symptoms such as stuffy nose, wheezing, red or itchy eyes and/or skin.

Mold can be found inside and outside the home. It can encroach in your home through windows, doors, vents, and air conditioning units. Drier air will help to reduce the growth of mold. If you start to notice water stains on the walls or ceilings, you may already have mold in your home.

Moisture can also begin to affect your clothes, furniture, paper products, wood, cardboard, and electronics. 

Mold in the home may not only be a major risk factor for the structure of the house, but also for your health.

4. Keeps Food Fresher for Longer

Do you notice your bread molding quickly? It may be due in part to the humidity in your home. 

Having healthy, fresh food is extremely important for your health. Excessive water or moisture levels affects the keeping quality of your food. 

Without controlling your climate, your food may begin to mold or become soggy because of the microorganisms or a chemical reaction (oxidation) that occurs in your food.

Moisture precipitation on food can provide an environment for bacteria and molds to grow and multiply. This can be a health issue, as well as cause you to spend more money on food than necessary.

Moisture control through a dehumidifier can help alleviate this issue. 

5. Reduce Humidity Fatigue

Feeling sluggish over the summer even though you have air conditioning? 

Humidity is actually known to make you feel fatigued, dehydrated, and can even cause heat exhaustion. 

A dehumidifier may greatly benefit your home especially if you live in a humid environment and don’t have air conditioning. 

Humidity makes it harder for your body to cool off and can result in excessive sweating which leads to dehydration, fatigue, muscle cramps, and even heatstroke.

A dehumidifier may reduce these effects especially if you don’t have air conditioning. Your new dehumidifier will also work directly with your air conditioning unit to create a more comfortable living environment.

If you’re tired of dealing with the Pennsylvania humidity, a dehumidifier is a simple addition to your home that will improve your health and safety. 

If you’re looking for a dehumidifier for your entire house (not just separate rooms), contact your local HVAC company in Central Pennsylvania, WM Buffington! With years of experience spanning back to 1952, we’ll install the proper dehumidifier for your home’s needs and your comfort.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Home Ventilation: What You Should Be Concerned About as a Homeowner

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Homeowner testing airflow from air ducts

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ventilation is the “exchange of indoor and outdoor air.” Homeowners should be greatly concerned about the efficiency of this exchange in their homes.

Improper ventilation can lead to a myriad of health problems and other issues, as it has the potential to smother residents with harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, as well as create a moisture-rich environment that can lead to mold and mildew. Keep reading for what you should be considering when it comes to your home’s healthy ventilation!

Ventilation Options

Your home’s ventilation system is a lot like a set of lungs. It should move freely, have unrestricted inward and outward flow, and needs to be free of anything that might block proper movement.

Homeowners should be concerned about ensuring their ventilation method is a best-fit and is running properly. The three most-popular and efficient ventilation options are:

  • Uncontrolled ventilation: Uncontrolled, technology-free movement of indoor and outdoor air by way of windows, doors, and cracks, etc. This isn’t much of a method at all, though some older homes still rely on it.
  • Spot ventilation: Utilizes exhaust fans to remove pollutants and moisture from a specific space (stove range hoods, bathroom exhaust fans, etc). This method can be used alongside natural ventilation as a more effective means of localized redistribution of air.
  • Whole-house ventilation: This system is more uniformed and structured in nature, utilizing exhaust ventilation, duct systems, fans, and ideally include exhaust and fresh air circulation.

Avoid Moisture Problems

Without a proper ventilation system, homeowners should be concerned about moisture accumulation. Humidity (moisture found in the air) can quickly manifest as harmful mold or mildew growth. Additionally, unchecked moisture can be detrimental to furniture, flooring, and other elements of the home.

To best avoid moisture accumulation, here are three tips from the U.S. Department of Energy:

  • Stop air leaks: Often, home moisture is correlated to uncontrolled airflow, where moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces and results in condensation. Ensure all holes, gaps, and airflow leaks in your home’s fixtures are sealed. Check windows, attics, basements, etc.
  • Control water: One of the most effective ways to ensure unwanted water isn’t leaking into the home is to inspect your roof. If your roof is not equipped to keep moisture out, it will find its way in.
  • Ventilate indoor moisture: Whether or not you realize it, your family creates and accumulates moisture in your home simply by living in it. Cooking, showering, and doing the laundry are all culprits of adding water to the air. Ensure kitchen and bathroom vents lead directly outside, and implement a ventilation system in the attic if necessary.

Carbon Monoxide and Other Pollutants

It has been suggested that if not mitigated properly, the air we breathe inside our homes could be more dangerous and harmful to human health than the pollution found in major cities. Let’s think about the toxins that could be making their home in the very air you breathe: nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, formaldehyde, radon, sulfur dioxide, asbestos, and many that fly under the radar in the form of basic household chemicals (hairspray, paint, pesticides, polishes, cleaning agents, etc).

Unfortunately, many of these pollutants are nearly unavoidable. This is why homeowners should be greatly concerned about implementing a quality, efficient air ventilation system in their homes. The negative health effects from toxic fumes will last far longer than the annoyance you may feel at the sound of the exhaust fan.

Your Local Home Air Experts

Our team here at WM Buffington is proud to be Central Pennsylvania’s go-to source on all things air, heating and cooling since 1952. We are committed to going above and beyond to ensure your family is safe and comfortable at home!

Our goal is to provide all of our customers with the best home efficiency at an affordable cost. With high energy efficiency and affordability in mind, WM Buffington Company Inc. provides a wide variety of products and services for our residential and commercial customers in need.

We pride ourselves in hiring NATE-certified technicians who offer the best home solutions for your HVAC troubles. With extensive and continuous training, our team can get the job done right the first time. For a comfortable and efficient home, choose WM Buffington Company Inc. as your HVAC problem solver.


For 66 years, our team of experts have dedicated themselves to providing fast, professional work with superior customer service. Contact us today!

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