Around half of American homes run on natural gas, which shows how crucial finding a robust furnace is.
Furnaces improve your home’s indoor air quality, are safe to run, and are affordable compared to other types of energy. Perhaps you’re on the hunt for a new appliance, but you’re not sure what to look for.
Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are six things to consider when buying a furnace.
1. Consider the Type of System
When furnace shopping, an important factor to consider is the type of system you need. For instance, a split system is perfect if you don’t have a basement or attic where you can place the unit. But if you have enough room, then get a packaged model as your new furnace.
Don’t worry if you’re confused, simply hire a reputable contractor so you can figure out the best one for your home and share your queries, such as how long the unit will last.
2. Fuel Type
As you browse all types of furnaces, check which fuel source is most viable for your situation. Although it supports electricity and oil, most consumers choose natural gas. This is because it’s affordable and widely available.
3. Size of Your Home
Before you make the purchase, consider the size of your home. You don’t want to buy a unit that’s too small, otherwise, it won’t efficiently heat your home. Plus, it will overwork the furnace and cause your utility bills to spike.
In contrast, a large furnace must constantly regulate its temperature so it doesn’t overheat. To avoid this, consider your size, outdoor climate, and insulation so you find the perfect model for you.
4. Efficiency Rating
Another important consideration is how energy-efficient the furnace is. As a general rule, buy a high-efficiency furnace, as it lowers your energy bill and produces more heat. Avoid buying a second-hand model, as it will pump toxins into the environment and works harder, costing you more.
5. Cost
Once decided, consider the cost of the furnace. Aside from the upfront cost, you must also pay for installation and maintenance. Plus, if you want extra features like improving your indoor air quality, then make space in your budget.
You should also ask whether the contractor offers a warranty. Most manufacturers offer a 10-year one for parts and the company installing the product should give you at least one year.
6. Ease Of Installation
You should also check who is installing your new furnace. If it’s done by an unreliable contractor, then you may face problems later on. So ask how often you must regularly maintain the unit as it will extend its lifespan.
Our Buying a Furnace Tips
Hopefully, after reading this article, you know everything about buying a furnace.
Start by choosing the right system for your home—consider the cost, and fuel source. Also, find a company that offers free installation and a warranty. Happy shopping!
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