There are many reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the cost. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will see major savings in energy bills and an improvement in your home’s comfort.
A high-efficiency gas furnace is often called 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. Reduced Energy Bills
One of the top advantages high-efficiency furnaces provide is lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems need 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 means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It measures how well your furnace utilizes natural gas for producing heat. The higher the rating, 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 types of weather and in particularly 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 high all the time, the furnace can operate at a slower speed when needed and supply more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will use less natural gas.
3. Less 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 helpful for those who need a quiet environment for sleeping or studying. If you’re concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace creates less noise because it can operate at a lower speed.
4. Improved Air Quality Indoors
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with high levels of air filtration to catch pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas that have high concentrations of dust and other impurities.
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 expenses while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Savings Through Rebates
Purchasing a high-efficiency furnace may qualify you for for extra rebates, especially if you purchase one that’s ENERGY STAR® certified. 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 higher for northern climates
- 90% AFUE or greater for southern climates
Along with the additional rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll enjoy lower energy costs throughout its lifetime.
7. Compatible with Smart Thermostats
Most homeowners have a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace but have no idea how to use it. A 192-person study released by the Energy Research and Social Science journal discovered:
- 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 wondering about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temp. Your thermostat will find out your temperature preferences and make energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Since the majority of 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).
Request Your Free Estimate Now for a New, High-Efficiency Furnace
A high-efficiency furnace will help you save money on natural gas costs. If it also includes rebates to offset the preliminary 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. Contact us today at 478-202-3170 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been offering furnace installation in Macon and surrounding areas since year, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends rely on.