If you are in the market for a new furnace, you might think that the system you choose is the most important aspect of your purchase. While this answer isn’t technically wrong, there are many considerations to think about when selecting a new furnace, and the system model is only one of them.
All furnaces on the market today are far more energy efficient and effective than any were 10 years ago. Chances are your old system is completely obsolete at this point. If you had problems with your old system, you may be thinking you need a larger furnace, but that may not be true. There are several contributing factors to having a system that doesn’t perform at your expected level.
Finding the Right Furnace
The most important thing you can do when buying a new furnace is to find a contractor you trust. The professionals at Patriot Air have been in the business since 2004 and are dedicated to building long-term relationships with clients that are built on trust and quality. After you’ve done research online and know a little more about the performance of the models on the market, a professional can help you narrow down your search and find the perfect furnace for your home.
Variable speed features on some furnace models allow you to control energy usage by changing the speed of air blown to control temperature. This feature is electrically efficient and can help you control the air quality and humidity in your home. High-efficiency systems use less fuel, saving money and the environment. They have the potential of saving you up to 20% on your utility bills. Two-stage heating furnaces allow the system to work at partial capacity until the second stage is needed to meet the energy demand. This type of system can reduce temperature swings and save energy over time.
Consider the size of the furnace you need to heat your home adequately. A furnace that is too small or too large may provide inadequate air flow. A furnace that is too large for your home may turn off and on more than necessary, causing more wear on the equipment. A furnace that is too large may also cause temperature swings that make you uncomfortable.
After you’ve chosen a furnace, it’s important to remember the following tips to ensure your furnace works the way the manufacturer intended:
- Look at the ductwork in your home. Any defects or leaks can significantly impact the performance of a furnace, causing it to operate at a level far under the expectations of the manufacturer. Ductwork that is sealed appropriately can even out temperature fluctuations in certain rooms of a house and promote the flow of air throughout the ductwork.
- Verify your system is installed properly. Experienced technicians can enhance the running capability of your furnace and save you money over time. Look for warranties on your equipment to ensure your investment is protected, and remember to schedule regular maintenance tune-ups. Tune-ups can increase your heat efficiency and find defects over time that may end up costing you more money.