If you are replacing and purchasing a new furnace, Aspen Creek Heating and Air is an excellent place for help on how to choose a new gas furnace. It is well worth your while to research the different options, because this will not be a purchase you will not want to do often, and you most certainly do not want to feel the cold winter nights inside your home.
It is always important to go with the most efficient furnace that you can afford, and there is a basic chart that goes hand in hand with that. Furnace efficiency is a measurement of how much of the energy put into your furnace is converted into heating power for your home. This is always measured in AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). Here are a few suggestions on what to consider when shopping around for a new gas furnace.
System Types
There are two systems involved when it comes to how to choose a new gas furnace. You will have either a split system or a packaged system.
- Packaged System
A packaged system contains your cooling and heating components all in one, convenient outdoor unit, so, if you are short on space, or want to free up some extra space in your home, switch to a packaged unit. Aspen Creek Heating and Air will recommend the heating system that is just right for you and your home.
- Split System
A split system is comprised of a condensing unit, furnace, and coil that sit on top of the furnace. But, if you don’t have a basement, crawlspace or attic, you have to choose a system that can provide the same heating and cooling capabilities of a split system, but without the extra room needed for a large indoor unit. If you find yourself in this scenario, you may want to explore the packaged system options that are available.
Fuel Source
Gas, electric or oil…those are your options when it comes to how to choose a new gas furnace, and most would agree that gas furnaces are by far the most economical, running off of natural gas. But let’s break down each fuel source so you can see the differences.
Oil and propane are good sources of heat, but they need a lot of storage space, and they can drain the bank account, especially if oil prices soar. They also tend to gather quite a bit of dust and are relatively dirty. However, if you find yourself with an older furnace, this may be your only option if there are no gas lines.
Electric is another furnace option, as an alternative to natural gas. Of course, this furnace runs off your electricity, which can be extremely costly in the long run.
An electrically powered heat pump is a great way to save money and has a dual purpose of cooling your home in the summer. These systems transfer heat from one airstream to another, which in turn uses less electricity and saves you money.
Zoning
When determining how to choose a new gas furnace, you’ll also want to look into thermostats and zoning areas of the home. Have you ever noticed a considerable difference in one room to the next as far as temperature goes? Some rooms are toasty warm, while others are downright freezing. This can be rectified with a simple “zoning system” that divides your home into “zones” regulated by a thermostat. You will stay warm and save money because dampers within your ducts can open or shut off access to different zones, evening out temperatures throughout your home and making sure you are using just the right amount of energy.
Variable Speed Blowers
Getting that warm air to where it needs to be is an important aspect. There are two types to choose from, the variable speed blower and the fixed speed blower. Variable-speed blowers do just what the name implies; they vary the speed of your blower as it distributes air through the home, providing maximum comfort because the air is circulated through your home can be at a more consistent temperature, and the unit will operate quietly too. Fixed speed blowers will continuously output air and can be noisy.
Installation
Aspen Creek Heating and Air is a great place to start to get a qualified installation. It is NEVER suggested to install any furnace without a certified and knowledgeable professional who knows the equipment. Heating systems are complicated, and if a furnace is improperly installed, it can be dangerous, compromise the unit itself, and be hard on your wallet in the long run. Do your research, and ask around for installation quotes.
Size Matters
When it comes to how to choose a new gas furnace, make sure that whoever is installing your furnace should perform a Manual J load calculation to find out the system size you need. This calculation takes the entire home into account, from square footage to window efficiency. Never get a quote over the phone. HVAC systems that are either too small or too large will never heat the home properly. They may constantly be running, or could burn out sooner than necessary.
Ignitions
Most furnaces now have a direct spark, intermittent or hot surface ignition, which has replaced the pilot light versions. This increases the overall efficiency and a higher AFUE rating.
Air Filters
To reduce the amount of dust within the home, a furnace with an electrostatic filter will use an electrical charge to help trap dust particles, and a high-efficiency (HEPA) filter can also reduce the amount of dust blown around within the heating system. This is a huge help for people suffering from asthma or lung issues and allergies.
Warranties
Be sure to ask about your system’s warranty offers when you choose a new gas furnace. Most come with a 10-year parts warranty when you register the product, but it is wise to ask your HVAC specialist for full details, as each unit is unique.
Now that you are armed with some great information on how to choose a new gas furnace, be sure to call the HVAC professionals at Aspen Creek Heating and Air to find out which gas furnace is perfect for your home this winter. We look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions or concerns you may have.
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