Things to Consider Before Replacing Your Furnace

If you find that you are paying more for heating costs or just feel a constant chill throughout your home, it may be time to replace your furnace. The average life of a furnace is 10-15 years and if yours is reaching that point, then it may be time to just pull the plug (literally.) No one enjoys replacing expensive HVAC systems, but sometimes you have no other choice. Fortunately, modern furnaces are more energy efficient and while you’ll have a more sizeable upfront cost, you will enjoy lower fuel bills and a warmer, more comfortable home during the cold weather months.

To get the most value from a new furnace, here are some points to consider

Age of your furnace

As mentioned, most standard furnaces were designed to last 10-15 years. If you aren’t sure how old your furnace is, snap a photo of the serial number and contact the manufacturer. They should be able to give you an accurate estimate of your furnace’s age.

Furnace size

Make sure you’re choosing the right size furnace to heat your home. A furnace that’s too small won’t adequately keep your home warm, but a furnace that’s too big will run more frequently than needed. In both cases, incorrect sizing will result in increased energy costs.

Energy efficiency rating

Furnace efficiency is measured by AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency). The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace is. The minimum AFUE for the U.S. and Canada is 80 and the very highest is 98. In-between are values based on the Northern and Southern regions of the country.

Thermostat type

A smart thermostat can be a game changer. It can perform all types of tasks such as adjusting the temperature based on time of day, occupancy, and peak usage times. You can even program it to remind you of preventive maintenance chores such as changing the furnace filters. By taking advantage of the smart thermostat’s features, you can ensure comfort in your home and save on energy costs.

Atlas Butler Can Replace Your Furnace

If it’s time to replace your furnace, no worries. Contact Atlas Butler at 1-800-FURNACE. Our phone is answered 24/7 by a live person and we’ll schedule an appointment with one of our HVAC specialists. They will discuss your heating needs and recommend the best furnace that fits within your budget.