Factors to Consider when Buying a Furnace Is your furnace more than 20 years old? Do your utility bills seem abnormally high? Have you had several repairs to your furnace this year? These are all signs that it may be time to buy a new furnace.
Great! Where do I start? The process of buying a furnace is all too often a complicated one, but it doesn't have to be.
Choice #1 Gas vs.
Electric.
These are the two main types of furnace.
The main advantage of gas over electric is price.
Gas furnaces are less expensive.
The downside to a gas furnace is that it generates carbon monoxide fumes.
If not properly maintained this can be dangerous.
It is highly recommended to have gas furnaces inspected by a professional once a year.
This will ensure peak performance and safety.
The other advantage of and electric furnace is that many consider them to be more environmentally friendly.
Choice #2 Quality - How important is it? Quality is measured in the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating (AFUE).
This rating measures how much fuel is required to heat your house.
The higher the AFUE the less fuel required to heat your home.
Less Fuel = Lower Utility Bills.
As of 1992 all furnaces were required by law to have an AFUE of at least 78%.
Today you can find two choices, a mid-efficiency unit and a high-efficiency unit.
The mid-efficiency unit has an AFUE of around 80%.
A high-efficiency unit can have an AFUE as high as 96%.
A higher AFUE will cost you more upfront but save you more throughout the life of the unit.
Just following the numbers a high-efficiency unit will conservatively save ~15% on your utility bill.
Depending on the area your utility bill likely runs ~$200 in the winter time.
Over the life of the unit you could save over $3,000 in utility bills with a high-efficiency unit.
In addition, a high-efficiency unit will heat your home quicker and more thoroughly offering greater comfort to your family.
Choice #3 Size - What size furnace do I need? This question is answered more thoroughly in another article I wrote entitled "What Size Furnace Do I Need?" but the quick answer is consult with a professional.
There are many calculators and other quick "solutions" that you can use but the reality is that you need to consult with a professional to ensure the proper unit size for your home.
Other Factors to Consider Speed of your Furnace - Single speed furnaces are all or nothing.
They are either on or they are not.
Dual and Multi-Speed furnaces can vary the intensity and more easily maintain your desired temperature.
Sound - Where is your furnace located? Is it located in a lived in area? If so sound may be an issue.
Get a Quote Got the basics? Great! Now it's time to get a quote.
Make sure to call an HVAC expert to ensure that you have the right parameters and haven't overlooked anything important.
Good Hunting and Stay Warm!