There are many reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the cost. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will experience significant 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 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 main benefits high-efficiency furnaces offer is lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems use 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 measures how well your furnace uses natural gas for making heat. The greater 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 created to provide comfortable heat during all weather conditions 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 high 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 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 worried about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace makes less noise because it can operate at a slower speed.
4. Better Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to capture pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is particularly beneficial for those who live in places that have high concentrations of dust and other impurities.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an eco-friendly solution for heating your home. They have a high energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel expenses while lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Extra 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 received this certification must satisfy high standards for natural gas-to-heat consumption.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards consist of:
- 95% AFUE or greater for northern climates
- 90% AFUE or greater for southern climates
Besides the additional rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you'll appreciate reduced energy costs throughout its life span.
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 found:
- 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 wondering about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temp. Your thermostat will learn your temperature preferences and create energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Because many smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies often offer big rebates. Here's how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).
Get 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 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 sorting through higher efficiency models. Contact us today at (985) 764-2426 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We've been providing furnace installation in Norco and St. Charles Parish and surrounding locations since 1984, and we're pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends depend on.