Is it Time for a New Furnace in Your Home? Use these Tips

Is your furnace undependable? Does your family stay huddled up for warmth? Is your heating bill at an all-time high? It may be time for a new one. Here are some tips to help you choose the best furnace for your family.

Tip #1: Size

A correctly-sized furnace will keep your home at a comfortable temperature with a low utility bill. If it is too small, it won’t be able to keep your home warm enough. One that is too large will cycle off and on frequently. This wastes energy, raises your utility bill and causes it to wear out before its time.

Certified technicians know how to properly calculate the load and choose the right size furnace for your home.

Tip #2: Efficiency

The effectiveness is reflected by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. The higher the rating, the more efficient it is. This means even though two units are the same size, the one with the higher AFUE will cost more. Don’t let this fool you. A furnace with higher efficiency and a higher price tag is still the best buy. You’ll easily get that extra money back with lower utility bills.

Tip #3: Ask Questions

Before making your final decision, check consumer report websites and get recommendations from contractors and friends. Ask these questions:

• Length of warranty – How long is it covered under warranty?
• Warranty details – What is covered?
• Expected life – How long can you expect it to last?
• Function – Does it perform consistently well?
• Recommendation – Would you recommend it?
• Service agreement – Does it come with a service agreement?

There are many things to consider when buying a new furnace. If yours has seen better days, start shopping now before cold weather sets in. The last thing you want is your family left without any heat.

If you need more information about buying a new furnace, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Cooling. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have. Our NATE-certified technicians have served Lorain, Ohio, for 33 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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