Is it time to replace your gas furnace? Sure, it’s not the most fun or exciting task on the to-do list but it has to be done. And besides, you might just benefit from higher energy efficiency and a lower utility bill. What homeowner doesn’t love that? Plus, our tips for buying a new gas furnace will make your job easier.
Here are some factors to consider when buying a new gas furnace:
Energy Efficiency
When buying a new furnace, remember that not all furnaces are created equal – some are more efficient than others. For example, the Lennox EL296V Elite Series is a variable, two-stage gas furnace that uses ⅔ less energy to drive the blower motor over a standard motor. Ideally, you want the most energy efficient model you can afford.
A high-efficiency furnace might cost more upfront but it’s a worthy investment (we also offer financing). It’ll heat your home better, improve air quality, and reduce your energy bills. A more efficient furnace will also require fewer repairs and maintenance calls.
AFUE
Understanding how gas furnaces are rated in terms of efficiency will inform your purchase. Gas furnaces are rated with an energy-efficiency number called the AFUE – Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This measurement describes how much fuel is converted into heat by your gas furnace. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace.
Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:
- 80% AFUE = 80% of the fuel is being converted into heat while 20% is being lost through exhaust.
- 90%+ AFUE = 90% or more of the fuel is being converted to heat and up to 10% is being lost through exhaust.
In Canada, all furnaces are required to have a minimum 90% AFUE. And in Ontario, only high-efficiency furnaces are sold. Technological advancements in HVAC have made it possible for some models to have an AFUE of 98-99%, like the Daikin DM97MC. Its AFUE is 98%, and it’s a certified ENERGY STAR system, so it’s a very efficient furnace.
Operating Costs
When you purchase a gas furnace with a higher AFUE, you can save money on your gas bill. This is because the more heat your gas furnace can capture from the condensed exhaust gases, the more heat you get for your money.
AFUE may affect operating costs in the following way:
- If you have a gas furnace with a 90% AFUE, and you spend $1 on gas, .90￠of every dollar actually goes toward heating your home.
Essentially, the higher the AFUE, the lower your operating costs may be. However, these are estimated costs because the true efficiency of your furnace is also affected by the design of your house.
That’s why it’s also important to make every effort to optimize the overall energy efficiency of your home. This includes adequate insulation, proper ductwork, and more. A certified HVAC technician can professionally and safely install your new gas furnace, as well as inspect the entire system and fix inefficiencies.
Added Savings
Also, before you buy and install a new gas furnace, check for incentives, grants, tax rebates, etc. Sometimes the government offers homeowners tax credits and other incentives for the installation of high-efficiency gas furnaces. Additionally, Delta always has promotions to make heating your home more affordable.
The last of our tips for buying a new gas furnace is to speak with HVAC experts, like Delta. We can come to your home and provide a free consultation and quote for the best furnace for your home and budget.
Delta Air Systems is an established heating company in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. We’ve been installing, servicing and repairing furnaces since the 1950s and work hard to ensure complete customer satisfaction.
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