Buying a new furnace is a significant investment, but it’s important to ensure your home is warm and comfortable during the winter months. Furnaces can last for many years, so it’s important to do your research and choose the right one for your needs.
There are many factors to consider when buying a new furnace, including the size of your home, the climate you live in, and your budget. You’ll also need to decide whether you want a gas or electric furnace. Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than electric furnaces, but they can also be more expensive to install. Electric furnaces are less efficient, but they are also less expensive to install and maintain.
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start shopping for a new furnace. There are many different brands and models of furnaces available, so it’s important to compare prices and features before you make a decision. You should also read online reviews to see what other consumers have to say about different furnaces.
1. Size
The size of your home is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a new furnace. A furnace that is too small will not be able to adequately heat your home, while a furnace that is too large will be inefficient and waste energy. That’s why it’s important to have a professional calculate the heating load of your home before you purchase a new furnace.
The heating load of your home is a measure of how much heat your home loses to the outside air. It is determined by a number of factors, including the size of your home, the number of windows and doors, the insulation in your walls and attic, and the climate you live in.
Once you know the heating load of your home, you can start shopping for a new furnace. The furnace you choose should be able to meet the heating load of your home without being oversized. An oversized furnace will cycle on and off too frequently, which can shorten its lifespan and increase your energy bills.
Here are some tips for choosing the right size furnace for your home:
- Have a professional calculate the heating load of your home.
- Choose a furnace that is sized to meet the heating load of your home.
- Avoid oversized furnaces, as they will cycle on and off too frequently, which can shorten their lifespan and increase your energy bills.
By following these tips, you can choose the right size furnace for your home and ensure that you are comfortable and warm all winter long.
2. Climate
The climate you live in plays a significant role in determining the type of furnace you need. If you live in a cold climate, you will need a furnace that is more powerful and efficient than if you live in a warm climate. This is because a furnace in a cold climate needs to be able to produce more heat to keep your home warm, even on the coldest days. In addition, a furnace in a cold climate needs to be more efficient in order to minimize heat loss and save you money on your energy bills.
- Heating Capacity: The heating capacity of a furnace is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the furnace can produce. If you live in a cold climate, you will need a furnace with a higher BTU rating to ensure that your home is adequately heated.
- Efficiency: The efficiency of a furnace is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace. A furnace with a high AFUE rating will save you money on your energy bills by using less fuel to produce the same amount of heat.
- Fuel Type: Furnaces can be powered by either gas or electricity. Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than electric furnaces, but they can also be more expensive to install. Electric furnaces are less efficient, but they are also less expensive to install and maintain.
- Climate Control Features: Some furnaces come with climate control features, such as programmable thermostats and zoning systems. These features can help you to save money on your energy bills by allowing you to control the temperature of your home more precisely.
By considering the climate you live in when choosing a new furnace, you can ensure that you choose a furnace that is right for your needs and will keep your home comfortable all winter long.
3. Fuel type
When considering how to buy a new furnace, the type of fuel it uses is an important factor to consider. Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than electric furnaces, meaning they produce more heat for the same amount of energy. This can lead to lower energy bills over time. However, gas furnaces can also be more expensive to install than electric furnaces, as they require a gas line to be run to the unit. Electric furnaces, on the other hand, are less expensive to install but less efficient. This means they will use more energy to produce the same amount of heat, resulting in higher energy bills over time.
Ultimately, the best type of furnace for your home will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for the most efficient option, a gas furnace is a good choice. However, if you are on a tight budget, an electric furnace may be a better option.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between gas and electric furnaces:
| Feature | Gas furnace | Electric furnace |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | More efficient | Less efficient |
| Installation cost | More expensive to install | Less expensive to install |
| Operating cost | Lower operating cost | Higher operating cost |
4. Efficiency
When considering how to buy a new furnace, the efficiency of the unit should be a top priority. The AFUE rating measures the efficiency of a furnace, and the higher the rating, the more efficient the furnace. A furnace with a higher AFUE rating will use less energy to produce the same amount of heat, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.
For example, a furnace with an AFUE rating of 80% will use 20% less energy than a furnace with an AFUE rating of 60%. This can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings on your energy bills each year.
In addition to saving you money on your energy bills, a more efficient furnace can also help to reduce your carbon footprint. Furnaces that use less energy produce fewer greenhouse gases, which can help to protect the environment.
When shopping for a new furnace, be sure to compare the AFUE ratings of different models. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace and the more money you will save on your energy bills.
FAQs on How to Buy a New Furnace
Buying a new furnace is a significant investment, and it’s important to do your research to ensure you choose the right one for your home. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get started:
Question 1: How do I determine the size of furnace I need?
The size of your furnace will depend on the size of your home, the climate you live in, and the type of fuel you use. A professional HVAC contractor can help you calculate the correct size for your needs.
Question 2: What is the difference between a gas furnace and an electric furnace?
Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than electric furnaces, but they can also be more expensive to install. Electric furnaces are less efficient, but they are also less expensive to install and maintain.
Question 3: What is AFUE, and why is it important?
AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into heat. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace.
Question 4: How often should I replace my furnace filter?
You should replace your furnace filter every 1-3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.
Question 5: What are some signs that my furnace needs to be replaced?
Some signs that your furnace needs to be replaced include:
- Your furnace is over 10 years old.
- Your furnace is making strange noises.
- Your furnace is not heating your home evenly.
- Your energy bills are increasing.
Question 6: How can I save money on my furnace purchase?
There are a few ways to save money on your furnace purchase, including:
- Getting quotes from multiple contractors.
- Taking advantage of rebates and tax credits.
- Choosing a high-efficiency furnace.
By following these tips, you can choose the right furnace for your home and save money on your energy bills.
Next steps: Once you’ve done your research and chosen a furnace, it’s important to have it installed by a qualified HVAC contractor. A professional can ensure that your furnace is installed correctly and safely, and that it’s the right size for your home.
Tips for Buying a New Furnace
Buying a new furnace is a significant investment, and it’s important to do your research to ensure you choose the right one for your home. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Determine the size of furnace you need. The size of your furnace will depend on the size of your home, the climate you live in, and the type of fuel you use. A professional HVAC contractor can help you calculate the correct size for your needs.
Tip 2: Consider the type of fuel you want to use. Gas furnaces are typically more efficient than electric furnaces, but they can also be more expensive to install. Electric furnaces are less efficient, but they are also less expensive to install and maintain.
Tip 3: Compare the AFUE ratings of different furnaces. AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into heat. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace.
Tip 4: Get quotes from multiple contractors. Once you’ve chosen a few furnaces that meet your needs, get quotes from multiple contractors. This will help you find the best price for your new furnace.
Tip 5: Take advantage of rebates and tax credits. There are a number of rebates and tax credits available for energy-efficient furnaces. Be sure to research these incentives before you make your purchase.
Tip 6: Have your furnace installed by a qualified HVAC contractor. A professional can ensure that your furnace is installed correctly and safely, and that it’s the right size for your home.
Tip 7: Replace your furnace filter regularly. A dirty furnace filter can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your furnace. Replace your filter every 1-3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies.
Tip 8: Schedule regular maintenance for your furnace. A well-maintained furnace will last longer and operate more efficiently. Schedule regular maintenance with a qualified HVAC contractor to keep your furnace in good condition.
By following these tips, you can choose the right furnace for your home and save money on your energy bills.
Conclusion: Buying a new furnace is a significant investment, but it’s one that can save you money in the long run. By following these tips, you can choose the right furnace for your home and ensure that it’s installed and maintained properly.
Considerations for Purchasing a New Furnace
Selecting a new furnace for your home is a crucial decision that necessitates thorough research. This article has explored various factors to consider when making this purchase, including the size of your home, the climate you live in, the type of fuel you prefer, and the efficiency of the furnace. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can choose a furnace that meets the specific needs of your home and provides optimal heating performance.
Remember, investing in a high-quality furnace with a high AFUE rating can lead to significant energy savings over time. Additionally, regular maintenance and filter replacements are essential for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your furnace. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision and choose a new furnace that will provide comfort and warmth to your home for many years to come.