For many homeowners in the Fox Cities area, this decision can feel overwhelming. You want to stay warm without unnecessary expense and make the smartest long-term choice for your home.

At Martens Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners across Appleton, Oshkosh, and the Fox Cities weigh their options every day. Let’s walk you through how to know when a repair is still worthwhile, and when replacing your furnace may actually save you money..

When Furnace Repair Makes Sense

Not every furnace issue means you need a full replacement. In many cases, a timely repair can safely extend the life of your system.

A furnace repair may be the right choice if:

• Your furnace is under 10 years old and has been well-maintained
• The issue is minor (faulty ignitor, thermostat issue, sensor replacement, etc.)
• Repair costs are reasonable compared to the system’s value
• Your home is heated throughout all rooms, and energy bills haven’t increased

If this sounds like your situation, a professional furnace repair can restore comfort quickly. At Martens Heating & Cooling, we offer 24/7 emergency HVAC service throughout Northeast Wisconsin when you need it most.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Furnace

As your furnace gets older, repairs tend to happen more often and become more expensive, while efficiency declines. There’s a point where continuing to fix an old system becomes more expensive than upgrading.

You may want to start considering furnace replacement if:

• Your furnace is 10+ years old
• You’re frequently calling for repairs
• Repair costs are approaching 30–50% of the cost of a new system
• Your home has uneven temperatures or struggles to stay warm
• Energy bills continue rising despite repairs

A common rule of thumb is that if a repair costs more than half the price of a new furnace, replacement is the smarter investment.

Why Furnace Replacement Can Save You Money in the Long Run

While replacing your furnace has a higher upfront cost, it often pays off faster than you’d think.

Benefits of replacing an aging furnace in your Fox Cities home include:

• Energy-efficient furnaces can lower monthly heating bills
• More consistent and reliable heating
• Quieter operation and better indoor air quality
• Peace of mind knowing your system is dependable

Modern high-efficiency furnaces are designed to perform better in colder winters, and many Wisconsin homeowners are surprised by how much warmer their homes are after upgrading.

Flexible Financing Makes Replacement More Manageable

Cost is the top reason many Wisconsin homeowners put off a furnace replacement, and that’s completely understandable.

To help make replacement more accessible, Martens Heating & Cooling offers flexible financing options, allowing you to spread the cost of a new furnace over time instead of paying everything upfront.

View our financing options here

Our team is happy to walk you through available options so you can choose a solution that fits your budget.

Get Help From a Local HVAC Team You Can Trust

If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your furnace, Martens Heating & Cooling can help!

We are located in Omro but proudly serve neighboring communities in the Fox Cities, including Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, and more. We offer honest recommendations, expert service, and free furnace replacement estimates.

“We had a couple issues with our furnace which is relatively new. The scheduled maintenance happened at a perfect time. The tech was able to determine the issue and order parts. Also, reminded us to change the filters!”- Barbara H. 

“Great team! Protected our carpeting and walls, great communication thru the process, and a really nice looking install in place of the old system. Alex did a great job explaining how to connect and use the system too. Thanks guys!” – Micha R.

Whether you need emergency repairs or want to explore replacement options, our team is here to help you make the best choice for your home.

Ready to Talk Through Your Options?

Call Martens Heating & Cooling today and request your free furnace replacement estimate

We’ll evaluate your system, explain your options clearly, and help you move forward with confidence. No pressure, just expert local service.

The post Repair vs Replace Your Furnace: Know Your Options Before Costs Add Up appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

Need emergency HVAC service?

What Counts as an HVAC Emergency?

Sometimes homeowners are a bit hesitant to reach out because they’re not sure if something is really an “emergency” or they’re concerned about those fees. Here are a few situations where you shouldn’t wait to call for help because it could impact your health and safety:

Furnace Isn’t Working in Freezing Weather

If your furnace stops working during freezing temps, that’s an emergency. Besides comfort for you and your family, no heat can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to extensive damage and expensive repairs.

Strange Smells or Smoke

If you smell gas, burning plastic, or smoke coming from your vents or furnace, shut the system off immediately and call for emergency HVAC service. These can be signs of a gas leak or electrical issue that poses a safety risk for you and your family. 

System Won’t Turn Off

If your HVAC system keeps running no matter what you do, it could mean a short circuit or faulty control board. This can cause overheating, equipment damage, and a potential fire if ignored.

Water Leaks or Ice Buildup

Leaking water or ice around your unit can mean something’s seriously wrong, like a blocked drain, frozen coil, or refrigerant leak. Catching these issues early on can prevent damage to your home and system and minimize future repairs.

When It Isn’t an HVAC Emergency

While we get that any HVAC issue is frustrating and concerning, not everything is an emergency or danger to you and your family. Some HVAC issues can wait until regular business hours, including:

• Uneven heating or cooling in certain rooms
• Minor noise changes
• A clogged air filter
• Regular maintenance or tune-ups

These are generally signs that you might need a repair or replacement soon, but there’s no immediate risk. 

If you’re unsure whether something is an emergency HVAC issue, it’s always better to call and ask. A trusted technician can help determine whether you need immediate service or can safely wait. Ultimately, waiting until normal business hours when possible will likely save you money on after-hours and emergency fees. 

What to Do in an HVAC Emergency

If your HVAC system stops working or something doesn’t seem right, don’t panic. Shut down the system, check for immediate dangers, and call a trusted emergency HVAC technician right away.

Let’s break down exactly what to do while you wait for help to arrive.

• Turn off your system. Shut down your furnace, AC, or heat pump at the thermostat and the breaker. This helps prevent further damage or hazards until an HVAC technician can come take a look. 
• Check for obvious issues. Common culprits include tripped breakers, dirty filters, and blocked vents. Sometimes, a quick reset or filter change can solve your problem.
• Leave if you smell gas or burning. Grab your family and exit your home immediately. Call your utility company or 911 before calling us.
• Protect your home from freezing. If your furnace is out and its freezing temperatures, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach pipes and put towels around them. Use space heaters safely to prevent freezing and keep your family comfortable.
• Call a trusted emergency HVAC technician. Once you and your family are safe, contact Martens Heating & Cooling for emergency HVAC services. We’ll walk you through the next steps while dispatching a technician to your home.

Need emergency HVAC services for your Fox Cities home?

Wisconsin Homeowners Trust Martens Heating & Cooling

When emergencies happen, you need a team that shows up fast and does the job right. Based in Omro, we offer 24/7 emergency HVAC service across the Fox Cities and Northeastern Wisconsin, including

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 
• Omro

We believe in honest, straightforward service and advice when you need it most. Our emergency HVAC services include:

• Emergency furnace repair (gas and electric)
• Boiler and radiant heat repairs
• Emergency AC repair and replacement
• Heat pump service
• Thermostat troubleshooting and replacement
• Electrical and safety diagnostics
• Frozen coil and refrigerant leak repair
• Rapid furnace and AC replacements when repair isn’t possible

Our local technicians are trained to handle every make and model, and we pride ourselves on honest, straightforward service. We’ll fix the problem, explain what happened, and help prevent it from happening again.

I’ve been using Martens since I moved into my current home. They are always quick to respond with emergencies and made replacing my Central AC seamless. They also came out to fix my furnace during my first winter in the house. — Matthew S.

Martin’s came out when the hot water portion of my boiler quit working. They were fast, efficient and very professional. I’m pleased with the service and would highly recommend them! — Jackie S. 

I called and they came within the hour. Had a bad leak in my boiler he had the part in the truck and replaced it within an hour. Thank you so much. Tech was curious and knew his job well. — Patrick K.

The post When to Call for Emergency HVAC Service in Wisconsin appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

So, what can you do?

Investing in a whole-home humidifier can help keep your family healthy, make your home more comfortable, and support HVAC efficiency all season long.

What Is a Whole-Home Humidifier?

A whole-home humidifier works with your home’s furnace or HVAC system to add moisture to the air as it circulates through your ducts. A whole-home humidification system, also called a central humidifier or furnace humidifier, maintains a consistent humidity level throughout your entire house.

There are a few common humidification options:

• Bypass humidifiers: These use the warm air from your furnace to evaporate water and circulate humidity through your ducts. These work well in small or medium-sized homes with ductwork
• Fan-powered humidifiers: This type includes a built-in fan to move air across the water panel, making them more effective for larger homes.
• Steam humidifiers: These humidifiers generate steam directly and are the most precise option for homes that need tight humidity control.

Whole-House Humidifiers vs. Portable Humidifiers

When it comes to humidification, it often comes down to a portable humidifier or a whole-home humidification system. 

While a whole-house or furnace humidifier is installed directly into your home’s HVAC system, a portable humidifier is a standalone unit. It releases moisture directly into the air in a single room. 

You have to fill the tank manually with water and plug it in. The humidifier will run until the tank is empty or the room reaches a certain humidity level.

Why Humidification Matters During Wisconsin Winters

Wisconsin’s cold, dry winters often bring indoor humidity levels below 25%. Ideally, you want your home between 30% and 50% humidity. Below that range, the dry air can impact your health and your home’s structure.

When the air gets too dry:

• Skin and sinuses become irritated: Low humidity pulls moisture from your body, leading to cracked lips, nosebleeds, and irritated throats that are both annoying and painful.
• Static electricity builds: This leads to shocks when touching random items in your home and impacts your hair and clothes. 
• Wood dries out: Flooring, doors, and furniture can shrink, crack, or warp as they lose moisture due to the dry air. 
• Allergens increase: Dry air irritates nasal passages and can make you more susceptible to colds or allergies.

The Benefits of a Whole-Home Humidifier

Installing a whole-home humidifier can improve your comfort and health during Wisconsin’s long, dry winters while protecting your home’s structure and finishes.

Healthier Air

Proper humidity helps your body’s natural defenses work better and reduces the spread of viruses. It also soothes dry skin and sinus irritation that are common in winter.

Protection for Your Home

Your hardwood floors, trim, musical instruments, and furniture will stay in better condition when the air isn’t actively drying them out.

Low Maintenance

Once installed, your whole-house humidifier runs automatically with your HVAC system. You’ll just need annual maintenance, which usually just means replacing the water panel or filter once a year.

How to Choose the Right Whole-Home Humidification System

The right humidifier depends on the size of your home, the type of furnace you have, and  what type of humidity control you’re looking for. Since each home is different, it’s best to work with an HVAC company to discuss your specific requirements. 

Our certified HVAC technicians at Martens Heating & Cooling can:

• Measure your home’s needs
• Recommend the best model and capacity
• Integrate it with your existing HVAC system
• Set up an automatic humidity control (humidistat)

Get Full Home Comfort This Winter

Living in Wisconsin, where the air gets painfully dry every winter, means that a central humidifier it’s an investment in comfort, health, and home protection. 

If you’re curious whether a whole-home humidification system makes sense for your family, the HVAC experts at Martens Heating & Cooling are here to help. Our HVAC technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities and Northeast Wisconsin, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 
• Omro

Call us today to discuss humidification options, reduce dry air, and ensure your home is comfortable this winter. 

The post Why Wisconsin Homeowners Should Consider a Whole-Home Humidifier appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

That’s where an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) comes in. Not many homeowners in the Fox Cities are familiar with ERVs, so let’s break down what these systems do and whether one might be a good fit for your home.

What Is an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV)?

An ERV is an HVAC device designed to bring fresh outdoor air into your home while reducing energy waste. Think of it as a system that pre-conditions the incoming air to let your house “breathe” so your furnace or air conditioner doesn’t have to work harder.

How an ERV Works

The process is fairly simple. Here’s how an ERV works:

• Exhaust air out: The ERV pushes stale indoor air back outside.
• Fresh air in: At the same time, it pulls in fresh outdoor air.
• Energy exchange: As the two air streams pass through the ERV’s core, heat and humidity are transferred. 

In the winter, the outgoing warm air pre-heats the cold air coming into your home. In summer, the cooler indoor air helps reduce the temperature and humidity in the air entering. The result is cleaner, fresher indoor air without a big spike in your heating or cooling bills.

Benefits of an ERV for Your Wisconsin Home

That all sounds great, but will you actually notice a difference in your home? YES! You’ll notice your home feels fresher and less “stuffy,” no matter the season. From improved health to increased comfort and energy efficiency, energy recovery ventilators offer numerous benefits. 

• Healthier indoor air: Getting some fresh air into your Fox Cities home helps reduce indoor pollutants, allergens, and odors throughout the year. 
• Better humidity control: Humidity control is especially useful in Wisconsin’s muggy summers and dry winters. Your home will feel comfortable no matter what Mother Nature is doing. 
• Energy efficiency: ERVs can help keep heating and cooling costs lower compared to constantly opening windows or relying on less efficient ventilation systems. 

ERVs Make Sense in Wisconsin

Like it or not, living in Wisconsin means long, cold winters that dry out the air and humid summers that make it tough to stay comfortable. An ERV helps with both of those challenges:

In the winter, you’ll keep warm air inside while still getting some fresh air, helping reduce dryness and stale air without freezing. 

And ERVs provide much-needed relief in the summer, too. They reduce the amount of sticky humidity that enters your home, keeping your home cool and dry even on the hottest days.

Because the ERV recycles energy during the air exchange, your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard. That means lower energy bills all year long! Sounds great, right? 

Is an ERV Right for Your Home?

If you already struggle with dry winter air or damp, sticky summer air, adding an ERV to your HVAC system could be a game changer. ERVs are a great option for:

• New, tightly sealed homes that don’t “breathe” naturally.
• Families and pet owners concerned about allergies, odors, or overall air quality. 
• Any homeowner looking to improve comfort while keeping their energy bills under control.
• Anyone who wants fresher air year-round without constantly opening their windows.

Bringing Fresh Air Back Into Wisconsin Homes

Your home should feel comfortable and healthy in every season. With an Energy Recovery Ventilator, you can enjoy fresh air without wasting energy or stressing your HVAC system.

If you’re curious whether an ERV makes sense for your home, the HVAC experts at Martens Heating & Cooling are here to help. We’ll assess your home, walk you through your options, and recommend the best solution for your family’s comfort and budget — from mini-splits to ERVs.

Our HVAC technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities and Northeast Wisconsin, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 

Call us today to ensure comfort and efficiency in your home all year round. 

The post What Wisconsin Homeowners Should Know About Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

What if there was a way to keep your home perfectly comfortable year-round without adding expensive ductwork or going bankrupt from your energy bills? That’s where mini split systems come in. These ductless heating and cooling units are gaining popularity among Wisconsin homeowners—but are they the right fit for your home? 

Today we’re answering some of the most common questions we get about mini splits from our customers around the Fox Cities to help you decide if they’re worth the investment for your home.

• What is a Mini-Split System?
• Why Choose A Mini-Split System?
• Are Mini-Splits Efficient​?
• Do Mini Splits Work in Older Homes? 
• How Long Do Mini Splits Last? 
• How Big of a Mini Split Do I Need​?
• Are There Any Incentives for Installing a Mini-Split in Wisconsin? 
• How Much Does A Mini Split System Cost​?
• Are Mini-Splits Worth It​?

What is a Mini-Split System?

A mini-split system is a ductless heating and cooling system that allows you to control the temperature in specific rooms or zones. These systems use an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air handlers, offering flexibility and energy efficiency without extensive ductwork.

Why Choose A Mini-Split System?

Great question! Many Wisconsin homeowners choose a mini-split air conditioning system for improved energy efficiency, more control over their home’s heating and cooling, and lower costs. Some of the key benefits include: 

• Save Money on Your Heating & Cooling Bills: Mini-splits let you zone your comfort, saving you money. You only pay to heat or cool rooms you’re using! 
• No Ductwork Needed: Ductwork can be expensive. Mini-splits don’t need it, which makes it a convenient and affordable option for older homes, garages, and workshop areas here in Wisconsin. 
• Peace and Quiet: Mini-splits are much quieter than traditional air conditioners and noisy window units so that you can relax without constant noise.
• Year-Round Comfort: Most mini-splits have both heating and cooling options, which is a must with Wisconsin’s crazy temperatures and weather fluctuations. 
• Control Your Comfort, Room by Room: No more bickering over temperatures. Mini-splits allow for individual room temperature settings so everyone is happy and comfortable. 

Are Mini-Splits Efficient​?

Yes! Mini-splits are among the most energy-efficient heating and cooling options available. And they use technology to allow you to adjust output based on demand. For people without a ducted system mini-splits are more efficient than window air conditioners. Energy savings, comfort, and noise reduction — it’s a win-win.

Do Mini Splits Work in Older Homes? 

Yes, mini-splits are a great option for older homes here in the Fox Cities area! Since these systems don’t require ductwork, they’re ideal for homes built before central HVAC systems were common. If you’re planning to remodel or update your home, they also work for additions, garages, basements, and other spaces that didn’t originally have heating and cooling.

How Long Do Mini Splits Last? 

A high-quality mini split system can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Regularly cleaning your filters and annual inspections will keep your system running efficiently for years, making these a great long-term investment for your home. 

How Big of a Mini Split Do I Need​?

The size of the mini split system you need depends on the square footage of the space. The quality of your insulation and layout can also impact sizing. 

Our team of experienced HVAC experts can help you find the right size mini-split, but here are some general guidelines to get you started: 

• A 9,000 BTU mini-split unit can cover about 350 square feet
• A 12,000 BTU mini-split unit can cover up to 500 square feet
• A 18,000 BTU mini-split unit can cover up to 750 square feet
• A 24,000 BTU mini-split unit can cover up to 1,000 square feet

(BTU stands for British Thermal Units, which is used to measure heat.) 

We recommend you get a professional assessment to ensure your mini-split system is properly sized for both heating and cooling. Oversized or undersized units can result in wasted money and uncomfortable nights when Wisconsin temps hit extreme highs and lows. 

Are There Any Incentives for Installing a Mini-Split in Wisconsin? 

Yes! Many Wisconsin utility companies offer rebates for installing energy-efficient heat pumps — including mini splits. You may also qualify for federal tax credits. Our team of experienced Wisconsin HVAC contractors and your local energy provider can help you find out the specific incentives for your home. 

In general, Wisconsin homeowners will spend $2,000-$5,000 for a single-zone mini split (one indoor unit) and between $5,000-$15,000+ for a multi-zone system (multiple indoor units). 

The cost of your mini-split system fluctuates based on the size, number of units needed, and installation factors such as electrical upgrades. 

Keep in mind that while that upfront investment may seem big, these mini-split systems offer long-term savings due to their high efficiency. And rebates and tax incentives can help balance out some of the initial costs.

How Much Does A Mini Split System Cost​?

In general, Wisconsin homeowners will spend $2,000-$5,000 for a single-zone mini split (one indoor unit) and between $5,000-$15,000+ for a multi-zone system (multiple indoor units). 

The cost of your mini-split system fluctuates based on the size, number of units needed, and installation factors such as electrical upgrades. 

Keep in mind that while that upfront investment may seem big, these mini-split systems offer long-term savings due to their high efficiency. And rebates and tax incentives can help balance out some of the initial costs.

Are Mini-Splits Worth It​?

If you’re looking for an efficient, flexible heating and cooling solution for your Appleton or Oshkosh-area home, a mini split could be a great option. We have many customers in Northeast Wisconsin who absolutely love their mini-split system. However, it’s important to choose the right HVAC system that suits your home and your family’s needs. The experienced HVAC contractors at Martens Heating & Cooling in Omro can help you determine if a mini split is the best choice for your home. 

Enjoy a More Comfortable, Efficient Home Today

If you have questions about mini-splits for your home in Northeastern Wisconsin or other heating and cooling solutions, the Fox Valley HVAC contractors at Martens Heating & Cooling are here to help. Let’s chat about how to make your home more comfortable and efficient. 

Contact Us

The post Mini-Split Systems: FAQs for Wisconsin Homeowners appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.

The Martens Heating and Cooling team has compiled a few of our top HVAC settings to save money and avoid breakdowns during the winter. 

Adjust Your Temperature Range

The best temperature range for your Wisconsin home is between 68°F and 70°F during the day and 63°F to 65°F in the evening and throughout the night. Keeping your home’s thermostat within this range can help keep your living space comfortable throughout the winter, while also helping you save on energy costs. 

The U.S. Department of Energy notes you can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs by turning your thermostat back 7°F to 10°F for eight hours a day from its normal setting. This tactic reduces the workload on your HVAC system, leading to significant savings. 

A steady, moderate temperature is the best way to maintain comfort and HVAC efficiency no matter how low Wisconsin temperatures drop. 

Use a Smart or Programmable Thermostat

Implementing a smart or programmable thermostat in your home is one of the best ways to save money and maintain comfort throughout the cold winter months. 

A programmable thermostat allows you to set a schedule that automatically adjusts your home’s temperature based on your daily routine; this way, you’re not heating your home while you’re at work or asleep. 

Smart thermostats take a step further by learning your thermostat preferences over time and adjusting the temperature accordingly. You can adjust the thermostat through a remote control or smartphone app, even when you’re away. 

This level of smart home automation reduces the likelihood of wasting energy while optimizing your heating system’s energy efficiency. 

Reduce Energy Waste

Go beyond setting your thermostat at the right temperature and use these tips to reduce energy waste in your home. 

• Seal drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss. You can also use weatherstripping or draft stoppers.
• Close vents in unused rooms to focus heating on the spaces you use most.
• Insulate your attic and walls to help retain heat more effectively and reduce strain on your HVAC system.
• Change your furnace filter regularly to optimize airflow and prevent your system from working harder. We recommend changing your HVAC filter every one to three months. You should change your filters more regularly if you have pet dander in your home or winter allergies.   

Account for Extreme Cold Temperatures

During extreme winter months in Wisconsin, it’s important to adjust your thermostat settings to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment for you and your family. 

While you may be tempted to set your thermostat as high as possible, it’s important to avoid turning the system above 70°F since the increase in energy consumption can strain your HVAC unit. 

If temperatures drop significantly, as they tend to do around the Fox Valley area, set your thermostat to 65°F or slightly higher, up to 70°F maximum. Be mindful not to go overboard since you don’t want your furnace constantly running. 

We also suggest putting your thermostat on hold before severe cold weather hits. Maintaining a temperature is much more cost-effective than using a setback program when it is extremely cold; it can take a very long time and a lot of fuel to make up a couple of degrees when Wisconsin residents experience below-zero days.

Also, remember to never turn your thermostat completely off, even when you’re away. Doing this can cause your home’s plumbing to freeze in the extreme cold, leading to costly repairs. 

Maintaining a steady temperature, even in freezing temperatures, helps protect your home and the efficiency of your HVAC system.  

Contact the Experts at Martens Heating and Cooling

If you have questions about your furnace settings for your Appleton, Oshkosh, or Neenah-area home, or if your current HVAC heating unit needs repairs or replacement, contact the Fox Cities HVAC experts at Martens Heating and Cooling. 

With extensive knowledge and experience in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry, our Omro-based team travels throughout Northeast Wisconsin to provide valuable insights, guidance, and solutions tailored to your specific needs. 

Whether you’re seeking advice on system maintenance, troubleshooting issues, or considering replacing your HVAC unit, our team is here to help. Our technicians travel throughout the Fox Cities area, including:

• Appleton
• Berlin
• Menasha
• Neenah
• Oshkosh
• Ripon
• Winneconne 

Contact our team today for furnace maintenance this winter.

The post Winter Thermostat Settings to Save Money and Avoid Breakdowns appeared first on Martens Heating & Cooling.