Getting A Better Heater for Your Home
A new high-efficiency furnace can save money on energy bills and keep your house warm all winter. With so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your home? Keep reading to learn about the top four things you need to consider when buying a new furnace.
Indoor Comfort Team is the locally owned HVAC company serving the entire St Louis area. We are the company trusted for decades with the installation and service for all types of heating systems. We are here to help you understand the most important factors in making this substantial investment for your home.
Here are four things to consider when buying a new furnace:
Unit Size
The first thing to consider when buying a new furnace is the size of the unit. Some assume that a larger furnace will always provide the best level of heat. But that isn’t always the case.
While a furnace that is too small may not sufficiently heat your home, a heater that is too large is also a problem. It can lead to heating problems in areas of your home and waste a lot of energy.
Furnaces have measurements called BTUs (British Thermal Units), which measure heat output. To find the right size heating system for your home, you’ll need to know a few details.
You should determine the square footage of your home’s entire living space. Then you can use a BTU calculator to determine the appropriate size for your needs.
You will also need to understand the basics of different climate zone requirements. But it’s best to hire a heating installation expert to size your home when buying a new furnace. Qualified and licensed furnace installers use industry standard calculations to determine correct furnace sizes for each home.
High-Efficiency Furnace
Another important consideration when buying a new furnace is energy efficiency. The annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating is a measurement of how much fuel converts into heat. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace.
Ideally, you want to look for a a high efficiency model with an AFUE efficiency rating of at least 90%. This means that the appliance will convert 90% of the fuel it uses into heat.
Here in the St. Louis area, an AFUE rating of at least 90% will ensure you have an appropriate heating system. Our climate, while milder than the neighbors to our north, still faces bouts of extreme cold. Smaller or less efficient furnaces may not be capable of handling a long stretch of freezing temperatures.
Heating & Installation Costs
High-efficiency furnaces tend to cost more upfront than their less-efficient counterparts. However, they can save you money in the long run because of their lower operating costs.
When considering cost, you want to factor in more than just the purchase price. You also need to anticipate the estimated annual operating costs of each furnace you’re considering. A cheaper furnace up-front may cost you several hundred more dollars over the course of a winter. A better, high efficiency furnace will often pay for itself over the long term with lower energy costs.
Furnace Model
Today there exist many manufacturers of furnaces and heating systems you can choose from. Most are high-quality operations that produce heating units that are reliable and long-lasting.
Whether you choose Lennox, Trane, York, Amana or other company, you are likely to find a great option for your home. Some manufacturers are better at efficiency or cost, while others excel in its durability or low noise levels. But doing some research on various companies, you can find one that provides the features that are most important to your home and wallet.
Warranties and Service Plans
Finally, don’t forget to consider warranties and service plans when buying a new heating unit. Different types of furnaces have different warranties. Most furnaces come with a warranty from the manufacturer covering materials and workmanship defects.
Some furnace model manufacturers also offer extended warranties. Those typically cover parts and labor costs for repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Buying a New Furnace in St. Louis
Buying a new furnace involves a lot of factors. However, spending time to do some research will help ensure you can find one that’s right for your home.
Contact us at Indoor Comfort Team. We can help to keep you comfortable all winter long. Our team of licensed St Louis heating technicians have the necessary skills to install, repair or replace your furnace.
Give us a call at (314) 230-9542 to schedule a free consultation for a new heating system. We can expertly assess your home’s needs to provide you with a furnace that is perfect for your house.
