The Advantages of Investing in a New Furnace: Spotlight on Energy Efficiency
When it comes to home improvements, one of the most overlooked yet rewarding upgrades is investing in a new furnace. At face value, it might seem like a hefty expense, but delving deeper, the benefits are hard to ignore. Among the myriad of advantages, the buzzword that stands out the most is “energy efficiency.” In this post, we’ll explore why a new furnace is not just an upgrade but a smart investment for the future.
Fire & Frost Heating & Cooling is proud to carry the Ducane line of gas furnaces.
1. Significant Savings on Utility Bills from Energy Efficiency
Older furnaces, especially those over 15 years old, tend to operate at significantly lower efficiency rates. This means they consume more energy to produce the same amount of heat. New furnaces, on the other hand, are designed with the latest in energy-saving technology. With higher AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings, modern furnaces can convert more of the energy they consume into heat, leading to reduced energy wastage and, by extension, lower monthly bills.
An older mid-efficient furnace has a typical efficiency rating of 80%, whereas a new modern high efficiency furnace has an efficiency rating of 96% – 98%.
That means that with an older furnace, twenty cents of every dollar that you spend on fuel is going straight up the chimney. With a new high efficiency furnace, only two to four cents of every dollar that you spend on fuel gas is being wasted – and you are therefore receiving 96 to 98 cents worth of heat in your home. This adds up to significant savings over time.
2. Smaller Carbon Footprint
Energy efficiency doesn’t just save you money—it also helps the environment. By using less energy to heat your home, you reduce the amount of fossil fuels burned, subsequently cutting down on
greenhouse gas emissions. In a world grappling with climate change, an energy-efficient furnace is a step towards a greener future. Less is more when it comes to fuel usage to heat your home – less fuel used equals less pollution in our environment.
3. Consistent and Improved Heating
An old furnace can often lead to inconsistent temperatures throughout the home. Some rooms might be too warm, while others remain chilly. This isn’t just a comfort issue; it’s also inefficient. Newer models are better at distributing heat evenly throughout your home, ensuring every room is at the desired temperature.
This is accomplished by the fact that newer furnaces are variable speed furnaces. This means that the furnace can come on at a minimum of 25% of its full capacity, and operate at that level or ramp up to any level needed up to 100% capacity depending on the required heating needs.
Because of this, the furnace will come on less forcefully than a single stage furnace which is either 100% on or off.
This in turn creates a heating cycle that eliminates the high and low temperature swings in your home, creating a more balanced and even heat distribution in your home.
4. Enhanced Features and Controls
Modern furnaces come with a suite of features that make them not just energy efficient but also user-friendly. From programmable thermostats that allow you to set heating schedules to smart home integrations enabling remote adjustments, the capabilities are impressive. Such features let you customize your heating to your needs, ensuring the furnace only works as hard as necessary.
Although some of our customers still opt for very basic thermostats and controls for their home heating system, some customers appreciate the advantages that come with the higher tech models.
For example, wi-fi enabled digital thermostats are very common these days. This type of thermostat allows a homeowner to adjust their thermostat remotely via an app installed on a smart phone – they can literally turn up the heat in their home 20 minutes before they arrive home. Temperature alarms can be set as well that will notify the homeowner via email or text message that the temperature has fallen very low in their home. This is a great feature for someone that is on holidays, if their furnace has broken down during the winter while they are away.
5. Longer Lifespan and Fewer Repairs
Newer models are built to last and are generally more durable than older counterparts. With regular maintenance, a new furnace can serve you efficiently for many years. Moreover, with fewer breakdowns and problems, you’ll find yourself saving money on potential repairs and replacements in the long run.
The Ducane furnaces that we sell and install for our customers come with a 10 year warranty on the heat exchanger and all of the major mechanical components.
6. Increased Home Value
Energy efficiency is becoming a significant factor for potential homebuyers. A new furnace can increase your home’s value, making it more attractive on the market. Buyers are often willing to pay a premium for homes they perceive as energy-efficient, which can translate to a higher resale value.
Also, if you are considering selling your home in the future, you should know that older outdated mechanical equipment in the home can become a point of contention regarding the sale of the house, but it’s a definite bonus to a potential buyer if the furnace has been upgraded.
7. Peace of Mind
There’s something reassuring about knowing that the furnace in your basement is up-to-date, safe, and efficient. With fewer chances of unexpected breakdowns in the middle of a cold winter night, you can sleep soundly, knowing you’ve made a sound investment.
As a furnace ages, the metal in the heat exchanger slowly becomes heat stressed and brittle.
8. Potential Rebates and Tax Incentives
Many governments and utilities offer incentives to homeowners who invest in energy-efficient appliances, including furnaces. By purchasing a qualifying furnace, you might be eligible for rebates, tax credits, or other financial incentives, further reducing the overall cost of your investment.
In Conclusion
While the initial cost of a new furnace might be daunting, the long-term benefits, primarily centered around energy efficiency, make it a worthy investment. From significant savings on monthly bills to an increased home value and a reduced carbon footprint, the advantages are plentiful. If your furnace is aging, now might be the perfect time to consider an upgrade. Your wallet, your comfort, and the planet will thank you.
If you would like to discuss options for a new furnace for your home, you can Contact us here.
