There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the money. 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 referred to as a condensing furnace. Unlike traditional furnaces, this heating system uses a second heat exchanger that captures additional heating energy before the furnace will exhaust gases and this additional heat outside through 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 main benefits high-efficiency furnaces provide is cheaper energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems need less fuel to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on energy costs over time.
Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency. It measures how well your furnace utilizes natural gas for making heat. The greater the ranking, the more usable heat you’ll receive and the more efficient it will be.
2. More Complete Sense of Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to deliver comfortable heat during all types of weather and in especially 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 supply more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will consume 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 beneficial for those who need a quiet environment for sleeping or studying. If you’re concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace makes less noise because it can run at a lower speed.
4. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to catch pollutants before they can contaminate your air, which is particularly helpful for those who live in areas that have a lot 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 reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Additional Rebates
Purchasing a high-efficiency furnace may make you eligible for extra rebates, especially if you purchase one that’s ENERGY STAR® qualified. A gas furnace that’s earned this certification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat consumption.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards include:
- 95% AFUE or higher for northern climates
- 90% AFUE or better for southern climates
In addition to the additional rebates and the great comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll appreciate lower energy costs throughout its lifetime.
7. Peak Performance When Combined with Smart Thermostats
Most homeowners use 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 program the thermostat.
- 14% didn’t know where to find the settings.
- 25% know where the settings are but didn’t know how to change them.
With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to be wondering about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temperature. Your thermostat will learn your temperature preferences and make energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Because many smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies frequently offer generous rebates. Here’s how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).
Ask About Your Free Estimate Today for Your High-Efficiency Furnace
A high-efficiency furnace will help you spend less money on natural gas costs. If it also comes with rebates to offset the preliminary cost, why not take advantage and upgrade your old furnace? We’re here to answer any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and sorting through higher efficiency models. Give us a call today at 703-278-2036 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been offering furnace installation in Manassas and surrounding locations since year, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends count on.