Buy Smart: Consider Key Points When Purchasing a Gas Furnace
Do you know what to ask when it's time to replace or upgrade your
furnace? Most homeowner's don't, since it's something they may only
do once or twice in their lifetime.
If you're thinking about a new furnace, there are many factors
to consider, but here are a few of the most important.
Size. The size of a gas furnace refers to its heating capacity,
not its physical dimensions. The capacity of a heating system
is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour. In general,
a unit that's too small will lack the ability to give you the
comfort you want. A unit that's too large will cost more to
buy and operate. A qualified heating contractor is the best
person to recommend the correct size for your new furnace.
Venting. The heating contractor can also tell you if any changes
are needed in the venting of the furnace. In most cases, the
new furnace is placed in the same location as the old and uses
the same venting system. However, many of today's high-efficiency
gas furnaces can be vented out a side wall in the same manner
as gas clothes dryers.
Efficiency. The efficiency of a gas furnace is indicated by
its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. The federal
government requires that all new furnaces have a minimum efficiency
level of 73 percent AFUE. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient
the furnace. The more efficient the furnace, the lower the heating
bill.
Cost. In general, the higher efficiency units will cost more
than lower efficiency units. However, over the life of the unit,
a high-efficiency gas unit will help pay for itself because
of the annual savings in operating costs. These savings could
easily pay for the extra cost of moving up in efficiency. Final
cost can also be affected by a number of installation factors,
such as the correction of venting or ductwork problems and the
difficulty of removing the old furnace or installing the new
furnace in the desired location.
Contractor. Perhaps the most important step in replacing or
upgrading your home's heating system is choosing the right contractor
to do the job. The reason: No matter how well-made a furnace
is, the comfort, reliability and energy efficiency it provides
in in the hands of the contractor installing it. Contractors
affiliated with a nationally known manufacturer are usually
a good choice because they've been factory trained in installation
and service. They can also help you determine your comfort needs,
make the right equipment choices and give you the best value.
Air Conditioning Contractors of America - Dayton Chapter (ACCA-Dayton), Ann Detmer, Executive Director
P.O. Box 49646, Dayton, OH 45449
Telephone (937) 237-9074
