There are many reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the money. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will see major savings in utility bills and an increase in your home’s comfort.
A high-efficiency gas furnace is often referred to as a condensing furnace. Unlike traditional furnaces, this heating system uses a second heat exchanger that captures additional heating energy before the furnace will exhaust gases and this additional heat outside via PVC pipes.
If you’re not sure yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!
1. More Manageable Energy Bills
One of the top benefits high-efficiency furnaces offer is cheaper energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems need less gas to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on energy costs over time.
Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It calculates how well your furnace uses natural gas for making heat. The higher the rating, the more usable heat you’ll get and the more efficient it will be.
2. Enhanced Sense of Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to deliver comfortable heat during all types of weather and in very cold climates. The most efficient gas furnaces often will have two heat exchangers, a sealed combustion chamber and a variable-speed blower. Instead of turning on high all the time, the furnace can operate at a lower speed when needed and supply more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will use less natural gas.
3. Reduced Noise
A high-efficiency gas furnace is generally much quieter than standard furnaces because it doesn’t have to run as hard or burn as hot to heat your home. This is particularly helpful for those who need a quiet setting for sleeping or studying. If you’re concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace creates less noise because it can operate at a lower speed.
4. Improved Air Quality Indoors
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to catch pollutants before they can contaminate your air, which is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas that have a lot of dust and other pollutants.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an environmentally friendly solution for heating your home. They have a high energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel costs while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Savings Through Rebates
Purchasing a high-efficiency furnace may make you eligible for additional rebates, especially if you buy one that’s ENERGY STAR® qualified. A gas furnace that’s received this certification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat use.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards consist of:
- 95% AFUE or better for northern climates
- 90% AFUE or higher for southern climates
In addition to the additional rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll appreciate reduced energy costs throughout its life span.
7. Peak Performance When Combined with Smart Thermostats
Most homeowners use a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace but have no clue how to use it. A 192-person study released by the Energy Research and Social Science journal discovered:
- 42% didn’t know how to use the thermostat.
- 14% didn’t know where the settings are located.
- 25% know where the settings are located but didn’t know how to adjust them.
With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to be wondering about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temp. Your thermostat will find out your temperature preferences and create energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Since most smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR certified, utility companies often offer big rebates. Here’s how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).
Request Your Free Estimate Now for Your High-Efficiency Furnace
A high-efficiency furnace will help you save money on natural gas costs. If it also includes rebates to balance out the preliminary cost, why not make the most of it and upgrade your old furnace? We’re here to respond to any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and sorting through higher efficiency models. Contact us today at 715-384-3163 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been offering furnace installation in Marshfield and surrounding locations since year, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends depend on.