Need a New Furnace? Here’s What to Look For.

Do you have an older furnace that needs replacing soon? By planning for it now, you can find the best solution to provide clean, reliable heating, greater efficiency, and lower monthly bills. Here are some simple tips to keep in mind when it’s time to choose your next furnace.

Know your sizing

Getting the right size furnace is key to enjoying a comfortable home without overspending on your utility bills. When a furnace is too small, it could use excess energy as it needs to work harder to keep up, but if it’s too big, it may not cycle properly and could lead to comfort issues.

If you’ve been satisfied overall with the performance of your current furnace, you can likely go with the same size. But if you feel unsure, or if you’ve made changes to finished square footage or insulation in your home, it’s best to ask your HVAC contractor for an evaluation.

Make an energy-efficient choice

Furnace efficiency is rated with an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) number, which measures a furnace's efficiency in converting fuel to energy. Efficient furnaces with an AFUE of over 90% can lower your heating costs for years to come.

To get the most energy and money savings from your new high-efficiency furnace, it's important to check that your home is properly insulated and any air and duct leaks are sealed. FOCUS ON ENERGY® offers cash incentives for qualified furnaces that have a 95% or greater AFUE rating as well as insulation and air sealing.

Check the warranty

Many high-efficiency furnaces offer the security of a longer, more comprehensive warranty. When choosing a furnace, always check the warranty information provided by the manufacturer and your installer.

Plan ahead

A furnace breakdown during cold weather is the last thing anyone wants. If your furnace is over 15 years old or showing signs of breaking down, it may be time for a replacement. Do your research and schedule a contractor visit sooner than later to avoid a winter emergency.

Need help with your furnace replacement? Learn about Focus on Energy cash incentives and find a participating Trade Ally contractor in your area.

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