There are a number of 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 referred to as a condensing furnace. Unlike traditional furnaces, this heating system uses 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 convinced yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!
1. Reduced Energy Bills
One of the main advantages high-efficiency furnaces provide is cheaper energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems need less gas to heat your home, possibly saving thousands on utility 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 utilizes natural gas for generating heat. The higher the ranking, the more usable heat you’ll get and the more efficient it will be.
2. Improved Comfort
A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to provide comfortable heat during all types of weather and in especially 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 constantly, the furnace can run 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. Less Noise
A high-efficiency gas furnace is usually much quieter than standard furnaces because it doesn’t have to run as hard or burn as hot to heat your home. This is particularly helpful for those who need a quiet environment for sleeping or studying. If you’re concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace produces less noise because it can run at a slower speed.
4. Better Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to catch pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is especially beneficial for those who live in areas that have a lot of dust and other impurities.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an environmentally friendly solution for heating your home. They have a higher energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel costs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Savings Through Rebates
Buying a high-efficiency furnace may qualify you for for extra rebates, especially if you choose one that’s ENERGY STAR® certified. A gas furnace that’s earned this qualification must reach 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 higher for southern climates
Along with the extra rebates and the great comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll appreciate lower energy costs throughout its lifetime.
7. Compatible 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 located but didn’t know how to adjust them.
With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to be guessing 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.
Because most smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR certified, 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 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 make the most of it and upgrade your old furnace? We’re here to address any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and sorting through higher efficiency models. Give us a call today at 602-971-0567 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been providing furnace installation in Phoenix and surrounding locations since year, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends count on.