There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the cost. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will experience major savings in utility 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 extra 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. Smaller Energy Bills
One of the main benefits high-efficiency furnaces provide is cheaper 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 measures how well your furnace utilizes natural gas for producing heat. The greater the ranking, the more usable heat you’ll receive and the more efficient it will be.
2. Enhanced Sense of Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to provide comfortable heat during all types of weather and in particularly cold climates. The most efficient gas furnaces often will have two heat exchangers, a sealed combustion chamber and a variable-speed blower. Instead of turning on at full blast all the time, the furnace can operate at a slower speed when needed and supply more usable heat at more consistent temperatures. This also means it will consume less natural gas.
3. Less Noise
A high-efficiency gas furnace is typically 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 creates less noise because it can run at a lower speed.
4. Higher Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with high levels of air filtration to capture pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is particularly helpful for those who live in places that have a lot of dust and other pollutants.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an eco-friendly 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. Savings Through Rebates
Buying 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 earned this certification must satisfy 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
In addition to the additional rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll appreciate reduced energy costs throughout its life span.
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 found:
- 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 temperature. Your thermostat will find out your temperature preferences and create energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Since most smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR certified, utility companies often 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 includes rebates to balance out the initial 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. Contact us today at 949-204-0859 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been providing furnace installation in Mission Viejo and surrounding areas since year, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends depend on.