There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the cost. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will see significant savings in energy bills and an improvement in your home's comfort.
A high-efficiency gas furnace is often called 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 convinced yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!
1. Lower Energy Bills
One of the main advantages high-efficiency furnaces offer is lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems consume less fuel to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on utility costs in the long run.
Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It calculates how well your furnace consumes natural gas for making heat. The higher 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 designed to deliver 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 constantly, the furnace can run at a slower speed when needed and deliver more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will consume less natural gas.
3. Less Noise
A high-efficiency gas furnace is generally 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 environment for sleeping or studying. If you're concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace produces less noise because it can operate at a slower speed.
4. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to capture pollutants before they can contaminate your air, which is particularly helpful for those who live in areas that have high concentrations of dust and other contaminants.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an green solution for heating your home. They have a high 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 buy one that's ENERGY STAR® certified. A gas furnace that's earned this qualification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat consumption.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards include:
- 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 enjoy reduced energy costs throughout its life span.
7. Works 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 use 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 find out your temperature preferences and make energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Because most smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies frequently 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 answer any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and making sense of higher efficiency models. Contact us today at 573-635-3547 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We've been offering furnace installation in Jefferson City and surrounding locations since 1956, and we're pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends rely on.