Replace Octopus Gravity Furnace

Summary: Many older homes in the Minneapolis Saint Paul area are still using antiquated gravity (Octopus) furnaces. These antiques operate at less than 50% efficiency, even if they've been converted to natural gas. They also lower property values and contain harmful asbestos. Replacing such an old system is a must as high fuel prices drive up the cost of home heating.

Replace Your Old-Fashioned Octopus Gravity Furnace And Save

The Twin Cities metro area is full of beautiful older homes with residents who appreciate their history and unique features. One of the less-appreciated features of many of these homes, though, are the antiquated gravity furnace and duct systems. These are often called octopus furnaces for the multiple ducts that emerge from the furnace.

Originally designed to burn coal or oil, most have been converted to natural gas operation. Even so, they operate at low efficiency -- less than 50%. That means that much of the fuel they burn is not used to heat the home, but escapes up the chimney or vent.

All contain asbestos, making them a health hazard. The lack filtration in these systems means that dirty air continuously circulates, and heating is uneven within the home. Add to that the space requirements for the furnace and ductwork and incompatibility with whole-house air conditioning, and it's easy to see the benefits of replacing the entire system with a modern, high-efficiency furnace.

Another benefit of replacing an old gravity furnace is an immediate increase in the value of your home. When you decide to sell, nothing is more of a drawback than an ancient octopus furnace in the basement. No matter what other improvements you've made, that gravity furnace is there, sending potential buyers elsewhere.

For FREE cost estimate, visit Replace Gravity Furnace Minneapolis St Paul MN

Who Should Replace My Gravity Furnace in Minneapolis St Paul?

Replacing one of these antique heating systems is no job for Johnny-come-lately furnace companies. It's a complex job, but established Minneapolis Saint Paul furnace companies with years of experience have replaced hundreds of these, and can do the job efficiently and with the least possible disruption to your life.

Normally, a replacement takes less than a week, and that includes careful asbestos removal by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor and thorough testing of your home to make certain it is all gone.

Next, the old furnace is removed, along with all of the old ductwork. New ductwork is then installed, using old register locations in most cases, and a new high-efficiency furnace is put in place. Typically, your heat will be off only for a few hours, minimizing any discomfort. The job can be done any time of the year.

As a homeowner, you won't have to deal with permits or other details. A licensed, bonded, and insured contractor will handle all those details. A city inspector will inspect all work when it is finished, so you'll know the job was done right.

Once the replacement is done, you'll have a quiet, efficient heating system and regain valuable space in your basement. Your home will be warm throughout, with even heating that was never possible with a gravity furnace.

Controlling Costs of Replacing Gravity Furnace in Minnesota

The cost of replacing an antiquated octopus furnace heating system varies widely, and depends on many factors, from the age of the house, its design, and selection of features of the new system. A licensed, experienced heating company will offer you a free evaluation and estimate.

The real cost comes with keeping these old systems and facing continuing high energy bills, along with the reduced property value of a home that hasn't been upgraded with a modern furnace and heating system. Many financing options are available, either from your own lender or through the contractor. Compare your options and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Don't put off this energy and money-saving upgrade to your home for another year. Act now to replace your outdated heating system with a modern, high-efficiency furnace and heating system and start enjoying the benefits.