The average lifespan of a well-maintained residential furnace is 15-20 years. Your furnace is not guaranteed to stop working after this amount of time; however, its ability to properly regulate the temperature in your home will significantly worsen over the years until it can no longer maintain the level of comfort you desire.
If you have an older furnace, you are probably already experiencing declining quality of comfort in your home. This may be evident in various ways, such as temperature differences from room to room, unpleasant humidity levels, excessive dust accumulation, or even rising energy bills.
Even if your furnace is not that old, a lack of proper care over time can contribute to these issues. Neglected heating systems may also start to malfunction or break sooner than the average system. If your repair costs are adding up and your comfort is decreasing, it is time for a new furnace.
In this article, we will discuss three tips for choosing a new furnace, financing options, and ways to extend the life of the unit.
3 TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT FURNACE
1.  Pay attention to efficiency rating
The efficiency rating of a heating unit is a measure of how much energy is used to heat your home. For furnaces, this measurement is known as Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), which calculates heat output as a percentage of fuel used. For example, if a gas furnace has a 94 rating, then 94% of the fuel it burns will be converted into heat. According to Energy.gov, mid-range furnaces have an average rating of 80-83, while modern, high-efficiency furnaces have a rating between 90-99.
High-efficiency furnaces have a higher up-front cost, but this is typically outweighed by their many benefits and long-term cost savings. High-efficiency furnaces use less energy overall to heat your home, which is both economically and environmentally favorable. In an average heating season, Energy.gov calculates that the best available high-efficiency furnaces can save over 19% in heating costs compared to mid-range furnaces. In addition, these units improve your comfort level by reaching your desired temperature setting faster and easier.
When choosing a new furnace, be sure to compare the potential cost savings to the difference in up-front cost. If you live in a region with a mild climate, you may not benefit from the highest-efficiency furnace as much as those in a colder climate. Your local HVAC experts at Eagle Air can help you choose a furnace with an efficiency rating that is best for your needs. Choose the right size unit
2. Choose the right size unit
Choosing a furnace that is too small can actually leave your home feeling cold and uncomfortable, while a unit that is too large will cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy and costing you more on monthly bills. This is why it is important to evaluate your home’s specific needs regarding performance, efficiency, and cost before choosing a furnace. Our certified and experienced technicians at Eagle Air can help guide you through the process so that you feel confident about your investment.
3.  Speak with a home comfort specialist
When you decide to upgrade your furnace, it is wise to reach out to your local home comfort specialists to discuss your needs and learn about various product options. Also, be sure to ask if there are any current deals or promotions that can save you money. Lastly, it is important to have a professional HVAC technician install your new unit. A high-efficiency furnace only performs well if it is installed correctly.
FINANCING YOUR NEW FURNACE
For most homeowners, the cost of a brand-new furnace is not easy to swallow. However, you can often take advantage of financing options that work with your budget. Eagle Air works with several financing partners who offer no-interest payment plans to help you pay over time with low monthly payments.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR FURNACE
Remember, even after you invest in a new furnace, it is important to take proper care of it. Regular maintenance and heating tune-ups can extend the life of your unit and prevent costly repairs. If problems do arise, it is important to address them right away. Even the smallest issues with your unit can lead to more costly damages if they are ignored.
Eagle Air provides a comprehensive maintenance package backed up by both parts & labor warranties. Our plans include two annual maintenance visits, 15% discounts on repair work and replacement parts, exclusive member-only specials, and much more.
If you have questions about furnace products, installations, repairs, or maintenance, our team at Eagle Air is happy to help. Give us a call at 925-443-2665 or visit our website, https://eagleairconditioning.com/.
