Top 10 Considerations When Buying a New Furnace this Winter

Have you considered purchasing a new furnace this winter? Make sure you evaluate the following features to ensure you are making a wise investment.

Things you should consider before buying a replacement furnace.

1. Fuel Type

There are 3 possible fuel sources: electricity, natural gas, and propane.

• Electric
  Electric furnaces draw heat from electricity, so they tend to increase your utility bill.
• Gas
  Gas furnaces offer a less expensive alternative to electric furnaces. They are powered by natural gas.
• Oil/propane
  Oil/propane furnaces provide a good option for homes that don’t possess gas lines. Oil furnaces tend to be dirtier than their electric and gas counterparts and take up more space.

2. Energy Efficiency

A furnace should not waste energy. Check energy ratings to ensure that your replacement furnace will run efficiently.

3. Indoor Air Quality

Your furnace plays a large role in indoor air quality. If the furnace runs poorly, chances are high that pollutants and allergens will get into the system. The furnace then circulates these particles through the air in your home.

4. Price

Cheaper is not always better. Your gut might say to go with the most inexpensive option, but remember that you often get what you pay for. Take the time to weigh cost against features.

5. Size

Choosing a correctly-sized furnace makes all the difference in the world. A furnace that is too small for your home will overwork itself, while a furnace that is too large will constantly turn on and off, driving up your utility bill.

6. Warranty

Make sure you understand what type of warranty the furnace offers and how long it lasts.

7. Zoning

Zoning systems are great for houses that don’t receive even air distribution. They divide the house into sections and allow you to control each section independently.

8. Speed Blowers

Variable speed blowers allow you to change the speed at which your furnace blows air. This results in a more even temperature distribution.

9. Rebates and Incentives

Certain incentives for purchasing high-efficiency equipment include money back in your bank account. Ask about potential rebates and incentives that might come with the furnace you are considering.

10. Installation

Before purchasing a new furnace, ask yourself who will be responsible for installing it. Your contractor should be honest, reputable, and experienced.

Why is installation quality such a big deal?

Untrained technicians can make a lot of mistakes that will cause you problems and cost you money. To avoid installation errors and long-term repair issues, it is important to hire a quality contractor to install your new furnace.

Your family’s comfort is our priority. Contact the Rheem Pro Partner today for all of your heating and air conditioning repairs and emergencies. We serve homeowners in Colorado and Wyoming and want to see your needs met with the skill, experience, and care of licensed professionals.