There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the cost. High-efficiency furnaces cost more initially, but you will see major savings in energy bills and an improvement in your home’s comfort.

A high-efficiency gas furnace is often referred to as a condensing furnace. Unlike traditional furnaces, this heating system uses a second heat exchanger that captures additional heating energy before the furnace will exhaust gases and this additional heat outside via PVC pipes.

If you’re not sure yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!

1. Lower Energy Bills

One of the top advantages high-efficiency furnaces provide is lower energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems use less fuel to heat your home, possibly saving thousands on utility costs over time.

Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It calculates how well your furnace utilizes natural gas for generating heat. The greater the rating, the more usable heat you’ll receive and the more efficient it will be.

2. Superior Comfort

A high-efficiency gas furnace is created to provide comfortable heat during all weather conditions and in very cold climates. The most efficient gas furnaces usually will have two heat exchangers, a sealed combustion chamber and a variable-speed blower. Instead of turning on at full blast all the time, the furnace can operate at a lower speed when needed and supply more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will consume less natural gas.

3. Less Noise

A high-efficiency gas furnace is generally much quieter than standard furnaces because it doesn’t have to run as hard or burn as hot to heat your home. This is particularly beneficial for those who need a quiet setting for sleeping or studying. If you’re concerned about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace produces less noise because it can operate at a slower speed.

4. Healthier Air Quality Indoors

High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with high levels of air filtration to capture pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is particularly helpful for those who live in places that have a lot of dust and other impurities.

5. Eco-Friendly Design

High-efficiency furnaces are an environmentally friendly solution for heating your home. They have a higher energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel costs while lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

6. Savings Through Rebates

Purchasing a high-efficiency furnace may make you eligible for extra rebates, especially if you buy one that’s ENERGY STAR® certified. A gas furnace that’s received this qualification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat consumption.

These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards include:

  • 95% AFUE or better for northern climates
  • 90% AFUE or better for southern climates

In addition to the extra rebates and the improved comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll enjoy reduced energy costs throughout its life span.

7. Compatible with Smart Thermostats

Most homeowners have a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace but have no idea how to use it. A 192-person study published by the Energy Research and Social Science journal found:

  • 42% didn’t know how to program the thermostat.
  • 14% didn’t know where to find the settings.
  • 25% know where the settings are located but didn’t know how to change them.

With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to be wondering about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temp. Your thermostat will learn your temperature preferences and create energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.

Since the majority of smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies often offer generous rebates. Here’s how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).

Get Your Free Estimate Today for a New, High-Efficiency Furnace

A high-efficiency furnace will help you save money on natural gas costs. If it also includes rebates to balance out the initial cost, why not make the most of it and upgrade your old furnace? We’re here to respond to any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and making sense of higher efficiency models. Call us today at 515-450-8739 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been providing furnace installation in Ames and surrounding locations since year, and we’re proud to be the company your neighbors and friends count on.