A Furnace Upgrade Is A Big Decision – What You Need To Know

When you’ve decided that it may be the right time for a furnace upgrade, there are a number of factors you’ll want to take into account before you make your ultimate decision. The fact is, replacing any HVAC system is sure to have a major impact on both the future of your household finances and your comfort level, so you don’t want to rush into anything without weighing your options.

That’s where AFUE ratings really come in handy. AFUE means “annual fuel utilization efficiency”, and it’s by far the most prominent measure out there for gauging furnace efficiency. Specifically, it measures the percentage of energy a furnace is able to convert into actual heat for your household — the higher the AFUE, the more energy the furnace is putting to good use, and the less energy it’s letting go to waste. The fact that you have to pay for all of the energy you waste makes AFUE an important factor to consider during any furnace upgrade.

That being said, AFUE ratings, as important as they are, should not be the lone basis for your final decision. It’s always a good idea to consult with a local HVAC specialist before making a choice, as a professional can help make sure you’re selecting the right furnace for your unique situation.

Most importantly, a trained service professional can examine your home, and advise you on the correct size furnace for your setup. This is important, because a furnace that’s too small will have trouble providing sufficient heat throughout your household, and one that’s too big will cycle on and off more frequently, wear out quickly, and — in some cases — even make loud, annoying noises.

In addition to sizing, your local HVAC contractor can also plug certain criteria into their system — such as efficiency ratings, local energy costs, as well as specific aspects of your home — and accurately predict the lifetime costs of any furnaces that you’re considering.

So don’t enter the furnace upgrade process blindly, and for local HVAC needs, contact us over at Blanton’s Heating & Air.