Heating FAQs

Name: Gross Heating & Air Conditioning
Address: 3260 N. 126th Street, Brookfield, WI, 53005
Telephone: 262-783-6000

Learn about heating products and service, with answers to the most common furnace questions our pros are asked by homeowners.

Our Experts Answer Questions About Furnaces and Boilers

Today’s heating systems are complex, but the certified technicians at Gross Heating & Air Conditioning are ready to answer your questions. Our team has extensive training and experience working with all makes and models of heating units. We’re happy to share our knowledge to help you make informed decisions.

When is the best time to replace my furnace?

Don’t wait until your furnace dies to consider replacing it. In an emergency—usually in the dead of winter—you’ll be in such a rush to restore heat that you might not carefully weigh all your options for service and savings, plus it will be more difficult to schedule an install in a timely manner. If you have annual maintenance performed, we’ll be able to catch early warning signs and give you recommendations for a new installation.

What are the warning signs that my heating system is failing?

Systems more than 10 years old will probably show some signs of slowing down and losing efficiency. That’s not to say it can’t last another 10 years if you do regular maintenance and minor repairs, but watch for slower warming, reduced airflow, higher energy bills, strange odors, and loud noises.

My furnace is acting up again—should I fix it or replace it?

As a general guideline, consider replacement if the equipment is beyond three-quarters of its life expectancy and repairs will cost more than a third of replacement. Also consider the cost to operate it each month, because a newer, more efficient unit could actually save you money over time.

How much does a furnace cost?

This is a common question but it’s difficult to answer because furnaces come in many sizes, with many features. On average, you can get a quality Carrier® unit starting around $3,000. The good news is that financing is available, with approved credit. Plus, there are often manufacturer rebates, tax credits, and energy incentives to make your new system more affordable.

Is it cheaper to install an AC with a furnace?

Yes, upgrading your air conditioning or adding air purifying products during a furnace installation will save you an extra trip charge and labor fees. Your Gross Heating technician knows exactly how they work together and is happy to take care of several comfort needs in a single trip.

Why is my furnace leaking water?

There are a number of problems that could cause leaking, from a simple clog in the drain line to a dirty condensate trap. Start by checking the tube that runs to the floor drain—if water is draining properly, you will need a more thorough inspection to find the problem before you get moisture damage or mold. Call us for service, especially if you’ve skipped annual maintenance that includes new filters and humidifier pads.

What is the average life of a furnace?

With proper maintenance, you can expect your furnace to last between 15 and 20 years. Of course, it depends on many factors, like how often it has been maintained, the type of furnace, and how harsh the winters have been. With so many variables, one thing is sure—Gross Heating can help your system run better, for longer.

How often should I service our furnace or boiler?

Annual maintenance is recommended to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient heating through the winter. It’s always a good idea to test and adjust your system before you really need it, so call us up before the temperatures go down.

How often should I replace my furnace filter?

Recommended intervals are as follows: one-inch disposable filters should be replaced monthly while four-inch media cartridges or high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters only have to be replaced every six to 12 months. If you smoke indoors, burn candles, have pets, or have construction in your neighborhood, it’s likely you’ll need to replace them more often.

Does it make sense to replace my old steam boiler?

Converting an old steam boiler to a hot water system results in a quick payback, because newer models work much more efficiently and are easier on the pipes in your home. You may also want to consider adding in-floor radiant heat lines, which use hot water to warm the entire surface of your floors for comfortable, consistent temperatures.

Have more questions about home heating? Click here to ask an expert from Gross Heating!

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Contact Us

This form is monitored during regular business hours, and a member of our team will contact you to confirm your requested appointment. If you have an emergency, please call 262-783-6000.

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Maintenance Agreements

Maintenance agreements from Gross Heating & Air Conditioning are designed for your peace of mind. They’re a great way to reduce or eliminate unexpected repair bills, ensure top performance, save money, and prolong the life of your equipment.

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$100 Refer-A-Friend Program

Love Gross Heating? Tell your friends and family about us and you’ll get $100 cash back when they have a furnace, AC, or boiler installed. Have a lot of friends and family? That’s great because there’s no limit! Ask for details.

Gross Heating & Air Conditioning
3260 N. 126th Street
Brookfield, WI 53005
Phone: 262-783-6000
24-Hour Emergency Service Available