If a trusted HVAC technician tells you that furnace repair is not possible because the unit’s years of service are coming to an end, you’ll want to make sure that your new furnace is going to do its job for a long time. Choosing a high-efficiency furnace could be the answer, but deciding on the right one can be confusing, so here’s some help.
The efficiency of a furnace is measured by ratings that fall into 3 categories:
- AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): This represents the percentage of energy that’s converted into warm air. It helps to calculate how long it will take to warm up an entire home.
- Energy Guide: This is a rating that helps determine how energy efficient a furnace is and how the unit will affect your utility bill.
- Energy Star: This is a designation awarded to the most energy efficient appliances in various categories. An Energy Star rated furnace will be the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly option. Most leading brands offer at least one Energy Star model.
The following factors also need to be considered:
- Your Climate: The colder the winter months are, the better a high-efficiency unit will work. Thus furnace repair is less likely.
- Rebates and Tax Credits: These can help you decide how much money to spend on a new furnace. Find out more on EnergySavvy.com.
Finally, choose a company that specializes in high-efficiency furnace repair and installation. They can also tell you more about the advantages and potential drawbacks, and recommend a model that might be right for you.
