How to Evaluate a Gas Furnace
As of 2010, natural gas furnaces are the most common types of furnaces throughout the country, according to Consumer Reports. To make sure the model you choose is right for your house, closely evaluate your gas furnace options. Evaluation tips can be useful when examining an existing gas furnace in a home you might want to purchase. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check the square footage that the manufacturer of the gas furnace states it can heat. Choose a gas furnace with the capacity to heat the total square footage of your home. If your home has poor insulation or you live in a very cold climate, opt for a more powerful furnace.
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Find out the efficiency rating of the gas furnace you're evaluating. This rating is referred to as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. The lowest percentage allowed by law is 78 percent. You can find gas furnace models with ratings as high as 97 percent.
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Pay attention to extra features. Furnaces with variable speed blowers, for example, that deliver warm air in different capacities to different areas of your home. Other common gas furnace features include an ignition system, zoned heating technology, and a dual heat exchanger, which makes the furnace more energy efficient.
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Read the warranty information for the gas furnace. The longer the warranty, the better. More efficient models tend to have longer warranties. The cost of parts and labor should be included in the warranty protection.
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References
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