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Do you know what to ask when it's time to replace or upgrade your gas furnace? Most
homeowners don't since it's something they may do only once or twice in their lifetime.
If you're thinking about a new furnace, the Trane Home Comfort Institute says there
are many factors to consider, but here are five of the most important.
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1. |
Size: The size of a gas furnace refers to its heating capacity, not its physical
dimensions. The capacity of a heating system is measured in Btu's (British thermal
units) per hour.
In general, a unit that's too small will lack the ability to give you the comfort
you want. A unit that's too large will cost more to buy and operate. A qualified
heating contractor is the best person to recommend the correct size for your new
furnace. |
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Venting: The heating contractor can also tell you if any changes are needed in the
venting of the furnace. In most cases, the new furnace is placed in the same location
as the old and uses the same venting system. However, many of today's high efficiency
gas furnaces can be vented out a side wall in the same manner as gas clothes dryers. |
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Efficiency: The efficiency of a gas furnace is indicated by its Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency or AFUE rating. The Federal government requires that all new furnaces
have a minimum efficiency level of 78% AFUE. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient
the furnace. The more efficient the furnace, the lower the heating bill.
Cost: In general, higher efficiency units will cost more than lower efficiency units.
However, the Trane Home Comfort Institute notes that over the life of the unit,
a high efficiency gas unit will help pay for itself because of the annual savings
in operating costs. These savings could easily pay for the extra cost of moving
up in efficiency. |
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Final cost can also be affected by a number of installation factors such as the
correction of venting or ductwork problems, and the difficulty of removing the old
furnace or installing the new furnace in the desired location. |
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5. |
Contractor: Perhaps the most important step in replacing or upgrading your home's
heating system is choosing the right contractor to do the job. The reason: no matter
how well-made a furnace is, the comfort, reliability and energy efficiency it provides
is in the hands of the contractor installing it. |
Contractors affiliated with a nationally known manufacturer are usually a good choice
because they've been factory trained in installation and service. They can also
help you determine your comfort needs, make the right equipment choices and give
you the best value for your money.
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