There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the money. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will experience 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 catches additional heating energy before the furnace will exhaust gases and this additional heat outside through PVC pipes.
If you're not convinced yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!
1. Reduced Energy Bills
One of the main advantages high-efficiency furnaces offer is cheaper energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems use less gas to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on utility costs in the long run.
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 generating heat. The higher the ranking, the more usable heat you'll receive and the more efficient it will be.
2. Better Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is designed to deliver comfortable heat during all weather conditions and in especially 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 constantly, the furnace can run at a slower speed when needed and supply more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will consume less natural gas.
3. Reduced Noise
A high-efficiency gas furnace is typically much quieter than standard furnaces because it doesn't have to work as hard or burn as hot to heat your home. This is especially beneficial for those who need a quiet setting for sleeping or studying. If you're concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace produces less noise because it can run at a slower speed.
4. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with high levels of air filtration to catch pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is especially beneficial for those who live in areas that have a lot of dust and other contaminants.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an green solution for heating your home. They have a high energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel expenses while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Extra Rebates
Buying a high-efficiency furnace may qualify you for for additional rebates, especially if you purchase one that's ENERGY STAR® certified. A gas furnace that's received this certification must reach high standards for natural gas-to-heat consumption.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards consist of:
- 95% AFUE or greater 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 enjoy lower energy costs throughout its lifetime.
7. Works with Smart Thermostats
Most homeowners use a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace, but have no idea how to use it. A 192-person study published by the Energy Research and Social Science journal found:
- 42% didn't know how to use the thermostat.
- 14% didn't know where to find the settings.
- 25% know where the settings are but didn't know how to adjust them.
With a smart thermostat, you won't have to be guessing 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.
Because many smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR certified, utility companies often offer generous rebates. Here's how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).
Get Your Free Estimate Now for a High-Efficiency Furnace
A high-efficiency furnace will help you spend less money on natural gas costs. If it also comes with rebates to offset the initial cost, why not take advantage and upgrade your old furnace? We're here to address any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and making sense of higher efficiency models. Give us a call today at 724-425-5852 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We've been providing furnace installation in Zelienople and surrounding locations since 1947, and we're pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends count on.