The average lifespan of a furnace ranges from 15 to 20 years. When it comes time to choose a new one, we understand that you might not know where to start.
First, there are dozens of furnace brands out there. Amana, Ruud, Carrier, Trane, Goodman — they might seem all the same to the average homeowner. But a trained furnace installation technician knows that each brand works differently.
On top of that, there are different fuel sources, like gas, electric, and solar. Add price and features to that list and you might be feeling overwhelmed at your options.
Tips for choosing a new furnace
To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled this handy guide chock full of tips on choosing a new furnace.
Related: How to know when your furnace needs replacing or repairs
#1. Prepare before your furnace breaks
If your furnace is 15 years old, it’s usually time to start shopping for a new one. This is around the time when the long-term cost of repairs will outweigh the costs of a replacement. The last thing you want to do is wait until your furnace breaks in the middle of a snowstorm to start researching your options.
#2. Consult your local furnace installation service
Choosing the right furnace involves so much more than going down to your local home improvement store or shopping online. You’ll need to choose a unit that’s right for the area’s climate and the size of your home.
Contacting a furnace installation service near you should be the first step. A trained technician will be able to evaluate your home and recommend the best unit for your needs and budget.
We provide Denver furnace installation and repair services to homeowners living in the greater Denver metro area. Contact us today for more info.
#3. Choose the right size
A furnace that’s too small won’t be able to heat your whole house efficiently. Meanwhile, a furnace that’s too big will end up wasting fuel and energy, resulting in higher heating costs. Your local furnace installation specialist can advise you on the right sized furnace for your home.
#4. Look for a good efficiency rating
When choosing a new furnace, check the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. This percentage shows how much energy the unit uses to produce heat. For example, if a furnace has an AFUE of 98%, that means only 2% of energy is lost in the process of producing heat.
The minimum efficiency rating allowed today is 78%, but some units are up to 98% efficient. We highly recommend upgrading to an energy-efficient model if you haven’t already. Although they cost more upfront, these units will pay for themselves several times over throughout the years in energy savings. You may also qualify for a tax credit if you invest in an Energy Star certified furnace.
However, if upfront costs are an issue, you could opt for a slightly lower AFUE rating and still enjoy some energy savings.
#5. Read the warranty closely
You should always choose a unit with an extended warranty in case of any problems. Once you’ve confirmed that the unit is protected under warranty, learn the terms and conditions of that warranty. Many warranties stipulate that the manufacturer will not cover units that haven’t been inspected and maintained annually.
#6. Choose a two-stage furnace for maximum energy savings
Many older units are one-stage furnaces. This means they have one valve controlling the amount of fuel powering the furnace. In a one-stage furnace, that valve is either open or closed. Which means the furnace is running at 0% or 100%.
A two-stage furnace is more efficient because it has more fuel settings. The valve can be partially opened so that the furnace uses less fuel while heating your home efficiently and gradually. This means you stay warmer for longer while also saving money on heating costs. If you live in Denver, you likely won’t need your furnace running full blast anyway, since Denver’s winters are milder than other areas of Colorado.
#7. Find out whether the unit is a variable speed furnace
As its name suggests, a variable speed furnace has a blower motor that blows at different speeds. This allows for maximum control over the airflow in your home. Variable speed furnaces heat your home more efficiently, save you money on heating bills, and give you more control over the level of heat in individual rooms. Plus, variable speed furnaces even improve the air quality in your home.
Choosing a new furnace: wrapping up
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a new furnace. But contacting a local furnace installation service near you will take some of the guesswork out of the process.
Our trained technicians know the subtle differences between various furnace types and brands. They can provide personalized advice and recommendations to help you choose the right furnace for your home and budget.
Need some advice on maintaining your new furnace or extending the life of your current one? Call Golden West for all your Denver furnace installation and maintenance needs.
