Choosing a new furnace for your home is an extremely important decision for any homeowner to make. You are investing in the comfort and safety of your home and you must be sure that your furnace is matched to your home for the most efficient heating.
Before you begin, we recommend that you schedule a professional tune-up to assess and determine the condition and efficiency of your furnace now.
Choosing the right contractor to size and install your system is just as important when selecting the system you will use to heat your home. Otherwise, you will not see the savings you expect.
4 Things to Consider
1. Fuel- Gas or Electric? Most people will usually stay with the type of furnace that is currently installed in their home. However, you should consider the benefits of each before you decide. Electric furnaces are cleaner and don’t generate fumes but gas are less expensive to operate.
2. Efficiency- Look for furnaces that are high in efficiency. You can compare models using the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). While a higher efficiency rating will often translate into a higher price tag the most efficient systems are also the least expensive to operate. A high efficiency unit will use 90-98 percent of the fuel, while an older 80 percent gas furnace will use only 80.
Pilot lights are a thing of the past too. Modern systems save energy by using an electronic ignition that lights the flame instead of a continuously burning light.
3. Size- Choosing the properly sized furnace involves matching the size of your home with the heat output of your new system, known as British Thermal Units (BTUs). A furnace that is too small will obviously not heat your home well. While a furnace that is too big for your space will not be more effective at heating your home, but will waste fuel by cycling on too frequently.
4. Air Quality- Any time you repair or replace heating, cooling or ventilation equipment is a good time to evaluate and address any air quality concerns you or your family may have. An HVAC professional is qualified to assess the quality of the air in your home for safety and comfort and provide suggestions for ways you can improve. Poor indoor air quality can aggravate allergies, respiratory issues and illnesses.
Take a look at our furnace or heating installation page to learn more about selecting the right system for your home. Or Contact Us, we are more than happy to help.