A house is a valuable investment because it provides a place to live, security, and stability. For this reason, all prospective homeowners take their time looking for the perfect home, especially since it must suit their needs. However, not all homes are created equal, especially when it comes to maintaining temperature. Because of this, buying a furnace is done to achieve this goal.
A furnace is a heating system used to heat air and distribute it throughout the home, typically powered by natural gas, oil, or electricity. Furnaces also help reduce energy consumption and save money in the long run, meaning they’re often more efficient than other heating sources, such as space heaters. However, not all furnaces are created equal, making the buying process complicated for homeowners who want one. To help you with this, we’ll discuss the details in this article.
Types of Furnaces
There are different types of furnaces you can use at home. These include:
Natural Gas Furnace
Natural gas furnaces are the most common type of furnace available. Natural gas is an efficient fuel source, producing a great deal of heat with minimal emissions. Natural gas furnaces are also relatively easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Oil Furnace
Oil furnaces are a type of furnace that uses oil as its primary fuel source. Oil furnaces are often used in rural or remote areas where natural gas is unavailable. Oil furnaces are more expensive to install and maintain than natural gas furnaces, but they offer a more efficient heating system and can last for many years.
Propane Furnace
Propane furnaces are a type of furnace that uses propane gas as its primary fuel source. Propane furnaces are a popular choice for homeowners due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Propane furnaces are also easier to install and maintain than oil furnaces, making them an excellent option for those in rural or remote areas.
Electric Furnace
As the name suggests, electric furnaces use electricity as their primary fuel source. These furnaces are more efficient than propane and are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower operating costs. While they are more expensive to install and maintain, they are an excellent option for those looking to save money on their energy bills in the long run.
Single-Stage Furnaces vs. Modulating Heat Furnaces
Single-stage furnaces and modulating heat furnaces are different types available on the market. Single-stage furnaces are traditional furnaces that turn on and off at total capacity to heat a home while modulating heat furnaces are more efficient and can modulate their output to match the demand of the house.
Older furnaces use a single-stage heating cycle, where the furnace turns on at full power and then turns off when the desired temperature is reached. On the other hand, modulating furnaces can adjust their output based on the home’s changing temperature needs, reducing energy consumption and costs. Modulating furnaces are typically more expensive to install and maintain, but their energy-saving capabilities can help make up the cost difference over time.
The Importance of Variable Speed
Variable speed technology features many HVAC systems, including furnaces, heat pumps, and air conditioners. This technology allows the system to adjust its output to match the changing needs of the home. By having the ability to change its speed, the system can run at a lower speed most of the time, saving energy and reducing wear and tear on the components. This technology can also help improve air quality and comfort levels, as the system can maintain a more consistent temperature throughout the home.
Additionally, the variable speed technology helps reduce noise levels, as the system will run at a lower speed most of the time. This is especially beneficial for homes with open floor plans, where sound travels easily. Finally, variable speed technology can extend the system’s life, as the components will not be subjected to as much wear and tear.
The AFUE Rating
The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into energy. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit. AFUE ratings range from 80% to 98.5%, with higher ratings indicating more efficient systems. An AFUE rating of 80% means this amount of fuel is converted into heat, while the remaining 20% is lost through the exhaust. Variable-speed furnaces typically have higher AFUE ratings than single-speed furnaces, meaning they are more efficient and cost less.
For example, if you were to compare a single-speed furnace with an AFUE rating of 80% to a variable-speed furnace with an AFUE rating of 96%, you would find that the variable-speed furnace would use less energy and cost less to operate. As a result, you could save significant money on your energy bills over the furnace’s lifetime.
Furthermore, the AFUE rating helps compare different furnace models. By comparing the AFUE ratings of different models, you can find the most efficient and cost-effective for your home.
Considerations When Getting a Furnace
When getting a furnace, you must consider certain factors, such as:
Size
The size of your furnace is vital because you want to ensure it’s large enough to heat your home effectively without wasting energy. If your furnace is too small, it will not be able to keep up with the demand, resulting in higher energy bills.
Fuel Type
The type of fuel you use to power your furnace is also essential. Electric furnaces are the most common, but you can also find furnaces that use natural gas, propane, oil, and other fuels. Each fuel type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you should research each to determine which is best for you.
Installation
The installation of your furnace is vital to ensure it’s done correctly and safely. Improper installation can lead to problems with the furnace, such as uneven heating, inefficient operation, and even fire hazards. Because of this, you should hire a qualified professional to ensure the installation is done correctly.
Maintenance
Furnace maintenance is also crucial to keep your system running efficiently and to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Regular maintenance includes changing the filter, checking for leaks, and cleaning the unit. You should also inspect the furnace for signs of wear and tear and have it serviced annually by a qualified technician.
Your Budget
Above all else, you should always consider your budget when selecting a new furnace. You may be tempted to go with the most expensive model, but it’s important to note that you may not need the most powerful furnace for your home. Before purchasing a unit, research the different models and compare their features, efficiency ratings, and prices to determine which is best for you.
Conclusion
A furnace is necessary for many households to keep them warm, especially during the winter. There are plenty of choices available, but the most critical thing is to select a unit that’s the right size for your home and budget. This way, your furnace will be able to provide you with the right amount of heat and keep you warm and cozy.
If you’re looking for a heating company, HVAC Swami is for you! We provide comprehensive resources for HVAC content, and we can also get you connected if you need installation or repairs. Call 866-918-3252 to get a free quote!
