How to Select a New Gas Furnace

Furnaces are expensive but necessary purchases. You buy a new furnace either because it died and you have to, or it is costing you a fortune because it is old and inefficient. You never buy a new furnace because it is an exciting purchase. A bad choice can drain both your finances and the environment, so it is important to do your homework and choose wisely. You may not be an expert in selecting a new gas furnace, but you can avoid some common mistakes.

Instructions

1. Prepare your home before shopping by insulating and caulking. Sealing and insulating your ducts and installing an adjustable thermostat if you don't have helps reduce the amount of heating and cooling your home will need as well as helps your contractor determine the proper size system for the job.

2. Choose the most efficient furnace you can afford based on the system's AFUE (annual fuel-utilization efficiency) rating. It may be more expensive initially, but it will more than pay for the difference in the long run. Some state and local municipalities, as well as some utilities, offer tax credits or rebates when you trade up to a more fuel efficient system.

3. Don't forget to factor in the cost of the electricity to run the thermostat, blowers and controls. For example, using an overly large system which cycles on and off a lot uses more electricity than a smaller one.

4. Size your system properly by insisting that contractors calculate the peak-hour heat loss for your home, or the amount of energy needed to replace the heat lost by your home at the coldest hour of the day. Do not rely on a "rule of thumb," which usually results in an oversized and more expensive system. The system should supply from 125 to 150 percent of your peak-hour heat loss; any larger will create reduced efficiency and other problems.

5. Look for a low-maintenance system and a solid warranty to keep your long-term costs low and to encourage you to properly maintain your system.

6. Deal with reputable suppliers and contractors to avoid "low ball" offers. Compare pricing from several vendors. Throw out the highest and lowest numbers, especially if the lowest number is a lot lower, and take a bid from in the middle of the pack. Read the fine print, and be sure you are comparing the same basic product, quality, installation and additional costs and service.

References

• "Heating, Cooling & Air-Gas Furnaces;" Efficiency matters, February 2008
• Select a Heating/Cooling System for Home; Oregon Department of Energy-Conservation Division