3 Questions Homeowners Must Ask Before Buying A New Furnace

Heating your home is essential for keeping your family comfortable during the cooler seasons. Unfortunately, this seasonal use will place stress on the system, causing you to either repair or replace it at one point in time. If your furnace is reaching the average life expectancy of 20 to 30 years, replacing it will most likely be your best option. Before you invest in a new furnace for your home, here are a few questions you should ask.

Which Type Is Most Efficient?

If you live in an area that sees long winters with many days of at or below freezing temperatures, you probably already understand how expensive heating your home can be. Thankfully, certain furnace options are more efficient than others.

When selecting a new furnace, focus on the AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating. This rating refers to the percentage of fuel needed to heat your home. For example, a furnace rated at 85 AFUE, 85 percent of the fuel/energy generates heat while 15 percent is lost.

Basically, you will want to select a furnace with a higher AFUE rating. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace.

How Much Will It Cost?

A furnace with a higher AFUE rating will be more expensive, but you will see a good amount of fuel/energy savings to make up for this extra cost.

It is important to remember that a new furnace is an investment in your home and comfort. Not only will you need to budget for the actual furnace, but you will also need to pay for installation/labor costs.

When selecting a contractor to complete the installation, make sure they are certified and licensed.  Hiring an unlicensed contractor to complete the replacement may seem like a more affordable option, but improper installation can lead to inefficiency and costly repairs.

Will Maintenance Be Required?

No matter what type, make, or model you choose, your furnace will require maintenance to prolong its lifespan and ensure it is running in an effective and efficient manner.

Be sure to check your filter regularly. Changing your filter once a month is recommended if you have allergies or pets in the home. If it appears dirty and clogged with dust and debris, replace it immediately to improve air flow.

Also, schedule a seasonal tune up of your furnace in the fall to prepare for the heating season. This tune-up will involve a complete inspection and cleaning of the furnace.

Proper preparation is key to making a smart choice on your new furnace. For more information on selecting the right furnace for your home and budget, contact your heating repair specialist today.