Know How to Get a Good Value When Shopping for a New Furnace

Shopping for a new furnace is a daunting task. If you make the wrong decision, you’ll end up feeling the repercussions for years to come. You’re not necessarily looking for the best furnace on the market — just the best value for your money. Here are some things to look for when determining furnace value.

Furnace Value Factors

The first thing to look for is energy efficiency, measured by a furnace’s AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating. It determines how much fuel is given off as heat as opposed to how much is expelled as waste. The minimum AFUE rating for a gas furnace in the U.S. is 78%. Mid-efficiency models are around 85%, while the highest-efficiency furnaces are rated 98% or above.

To find the most efficient furnace, look for the blue Energy Star label. It certifies that a system saves money and energy over similar models without sacrificing performance or features.

Those extra features are also factors that help determine furnace value. For instance, a multistage furnace provides heat at different intensities, depending on external conditions. In freezing weather, the flame will be up all the way. On milder days, it gives off less heat, keeping your home comfortable without wasting energy.

Furnace Value Detractors

Even if you buy the best model on the market, some factors can decrease furnace value if you’re not careful. For instance, installing the wrong size furnace in your home can cause issues. Pick a furnace that’s too small and it won’t be able to heat your home properly, wasting energy in the process. If you choose one that’s too big, it will cycle on and off too quickly and cause disparate temperatures between rooms. Both situations will wear your furnace out much faster than normal.

To avoid this problem, make sure your HVAC technician sizes your furnace using Manual J before installing it. This calculates the furnace load you need to heat your home properly and ensures you get one that will meet your needs adequately.

For help maximizing the furnace value in your home, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We provide quality HVAC solutions to Lorain and the surrounding areas.