What to Know Before Buying a Furnace
Buying a new furnace is a significant investment. It is essential to choose the right system that fits your home’s heating needs and budget. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to find the right fit.
In Evergreen Heating & Cooling’s latest blog, we will discuss what to know before buying a furnace, including efficiency ratings, heating ability, size of the system, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment in Waco, TX.
Efficiency Ratings
Efficiency ratings are crucial when choosing a new furnace. The efficiency of a furnace is measured by Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) percentage. AFUE levels range from 80% to 98.5%. A higher AFUE rating means a more efficient furnace, resulting in lower utility bills and an eco-friendlier home. The minimum AFUE rating allowed for newly installed gas furnaces in the United States is 80 percent.
When looking for a new furnace, consider choosing an ENERGY STAR unit. These units are more energy-efficient than standard units, saving you up to 15% on energy bills. Additionally, Energy Star rated units come with a higher AFUE rating, reducing your carbon footprint and helping to protect the environment.
Heating Ability
Your home’s heating requirements are important when it comes to buying a furnace. A furnace must distribute heat evenly throughout your home without wasting energy. The size and insulation of the home, construction, and ductwork affect the heating ability of the furnace. The larger the home and its heating load, the larger the furnace capacity needs to be to heat the space uniformly.
It is essential to choose a furnace that matches the energy requirements of your home. If the furnace is too small, it will not heat your home adequately; if it is too large, it will waste energy. The ideal furnace will align the heating capacity with the size of the house. Therefore, the furnace will not work so ‘hard’ and consume more energy to heat the room.
Ensure you find the right fit by working with a licensed HVAC professional when purchasing a new furnace. Your HVAC contractor can perform the proper calculations to determine an accurate heating load for your home and size your new system correctly.
Types of Fuel
Before making your final decision on a furnace, consider the type of fuel available in your area. The options for fuel include gas, electricity, or oil.
Gas is the cleanest fuel and the most cost-effective. However, not every neighborhood can install gas lines. If your area allows for these systems, a natural gas furnace offers efficient heating, producing fewer emissions compared to many other fossil fuels.
Electricity is a straightforward and inexpensive option, although it can be more expensive than gas, depending on your utility provider. Installing an electric furnace can be a wise choice for some homeowners due to its energy efficiency and ease of use.
Oil is an option but not always the most cost-effective. Oil furnaces provide consistent heat to the home, but can require more maintenance and are often more expensive than gas.
Budget
Finally, consider your budget. The cost of a furnace varies depending on the AFUE rating, size, and fuel type. A higher AFUE rating costs more upfront, but it saves you money on energy bills in the long run.
The size of the system also affects the cost upfront. It is essential to create a budget that aligns with the value you receive from your new furnace.
Find the Best New Furnace for Your Home
Choosing a new furnace is a significant decision. Consider the factors discussed above, and always consult with a heating professional to determine your home’s heating needs to make an informed decision.
Evergreen Heating & Cooling is here to help you understand what to know before buying a furnace – contact us today and request a consultation for new furnace installation services in the Waco, TX area.