There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the cost. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will see significant savings in energy bills and an improvement 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 via PVC pipes.
If you're not sure yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!
1. Lower Energy Bills
One of the top benefits high-efficiency furnaces provide is lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems need less fuel to heat your home, possibly saving thousands on utility costs over time.
Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It measures how well your furnace uses natural gas for generating heat. The higher the rating, the more usable heat you'll get and the more efficient it will be.
2. Better Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to deliver comfortable heat during all weather conditions and in particularly 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 operate at a lower speed when needed and deliver more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will use less natural gas.
3. Reduced Noise
A high-efficiency gas furnace is usually much quieter than standard furnaces because it doesn't have to work as hard or burn as hot to heat your home. This is particularly helpful for those who need a quiet environment for sleeping or studying. If you're worried about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace creates less noise because it can operate at a lower speed.
4. Better Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to capture pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is particularly useful for those who live in places that have high concentrations of dust and other contaminants.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an green solution for heating your home. They have a higher energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel expenses while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Extra Rebates
Purchasing a high-efficiency furnace may make you eligible for extra rebates, especially if you choose one that's ENERGY STAR® qualified. A gas furnace that's received this qualification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat use.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards include:
- 95% AFUE or better for northern climates
- 90% AFUE or higher for southern climates
Besides the extra rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you'll appreciate lower energy costs throughout its lifetime.
7. Compatible with Smart Thermostats
Most homeowners have a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace, but have no clue 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 located but didn't know how to change them.
With a smart thermostat, you won't have to be guessing about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temp. Your thermostat will learn your temperature preferences and make energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Because the majority of smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies often offer big 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 save money on natural gas costs. If it also comes with rebates to balance out the initial cost, why not take advantage and upgrade your old furnace? We're here to respond to any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and making sense of higher efficiency models. Contact us today at 254-355-3833 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We've been offering furnace installation in Eastland and surrounding areas since 1981, and we're proud to be the company your neighbors and friends rely on.