There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the money. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will experience significant savings in utility bills and an increase 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. Reduced Energy Bills
One of the main advantages high-efficiency furnaces provide is lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems consume less gas to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on energy costs over time.
Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It calculates how well your furnace uses natural gas for producing heat. The higher the ranking, 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 very cold climates. The most efficient gas furnaces usually will have two heat exchangers, a sealed combustion chamber and a variable-speed blower. Instead of turning on high all the time, the furnace can run at a lower speed when needed and supply more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will use 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 concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace produces less noise because it can run at a slower speed.
4. Healthier 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 particularly helpful for those who live in places that have high concentrations of dust and other contaminants.
5. Better for the Environment
High-efficiency furnaces are an environmentally 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. Additional Rebates
Buying a high-efficiency furnace may qualify you for for additional rebates, especially if you purchase one that’s ENERGY STAR® certified. A gas furnace that’s earned this qualification must satisfy high standards for natural gas-to-heat use.
These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards consist of:
- 95% AFUE or better 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 lower energy costs throughout its life span.
7. Works with Smart Thermostats
Most homeowners use a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace but have no idea how to use it. A 192-person study published by the Energy Research and Social Science journal found:
- 42% didn’t know how to program 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 temp. Your thermostat will find out your temperature preferences and create energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.
Since the majority of smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies frequently offer generous rebates. Here’s how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).
Get Your Free Estimate Today for a High-Efficiency Furnace
A high-efficiency furnace will help you spend less money on natural gas costs. If it also comes with rebates to offset the initial cost, why not take advantage and upgrade your old furnace? We’re here to respond to any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and sorting through higher efficiency models. Contact us today at 515-207-6569 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been providing furnace installation in Des Moines and surrounding locations since {year}, and we’re pleased to be the company your neighbors and friends depend on.