There are many reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the money. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will experience major savings in energy 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 has 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 lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems use less gas to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on energy costs in the long run.
Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency. It calculates how well your furnace consumes natural gas for producing heat. The greater the ranking, the more usable heat you’ll get and the more efficient it will be.
2. Superior Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to provide comfortable heat during all weather conditions and in very cold climates. The most efficient gas furnaces usually will have two heat exchangers, a sealed combustion chamber and a variable-speed blower. Instead of starting on at full blast constantly, the furnace can operate at a lower speed when needed and deliver more usable heat at more consistent temperatures. This also means it will consume 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 especially beneficial for those who need a quiet setting for sleeping or studying. If you’re worried about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace makes less noise because it can run at a lower speed.
4. Higher Air Quality Indoors
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to capture pollutants before they can contaminate your air, which is particularly useful for those who live in places that have a lot of dust and other pollutants.
5. More Environmentally Sustainable
High-efficiency furnaces are an green 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 qualify you for for extra rebates, especially if you choose one that’s ENERGY STAR® qualified. A gas furnace that’s earned this qualification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat consumption.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards consist of:
- 95% AFUE or higher for northern climates
- 90% AFUE or greater for southern climates
Along with the extra rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll appreciate reduced energy costs throughout its lifetime.
7. Works 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 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 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 learn your temperature preferences and make energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Because the majority of smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR certified, utility companies frequently offer big rebates. Here’s how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).
Ask About 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 sorting through higher efficiency models. Contact us today at 512-937-2001 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been providing furnace installation in Georgetown and surrounding areas since year, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends rely on.