How to Choose a New or Replacement Furnace
What is the Cost of Buying a New Furnace for Your Heating System?
Oct 23, 2009
There are many different types of furnace on the market and the standard technology has advanced significantly over the past couple of decades. The average home owner replacing a furnace which is more than fifteen years old may be confused by the choice on offer.
Selecting a Heating Contractor to Replace the Furnace
Installing a furnace is not a Do-It-Yourself task so the first and most important stage is to choose the contractor who will do the job. Invite at least three companies or individual trades people to give a written estimate for the job, they will calculate the output requirement of the new furnace, which might not be the same as the old one (see below).
The choice of heating contractor can be determined by how thoroughly they survey the property and the quality of their written quotation among other factors.
How Much Will a New Furnace Cost?
Replacing the old furnace will involve an investment of thousands of dollars, typically between $2,000 to $4,000, it is not just the cost of the appliance but the it may take two men a whole day to fit it, it may require a new thermostat, flue and wiring. The three or more contractors who provide estimates will inform about about details. A new furnance will, however, have an expected lifespan in excess of fifteen years and add value to the property.
High efficiency furnaces are more expensive than lower efficiency furnaces but reduced fuel bills should make them better value for money in the long run.
The furnaces can be divided by any of the following categories:
- Type: single stage, double or three stage or modulating furnace;
- Manufacturer or brand;
- Standard or high efficiency;
- Output in British Thermal Units (B.T.U.s);
- Operation of the fan or blower.
Different Types of Furnace
Traditional old furnaces were either on or off. When on they worked at just one maximum setting regardless of the outside temperatures. Modern appliances have a choice of two or three setting for use in milder weather, there are double or three stage furnaces. The very best models are modulating which means effectively they have many settings which can be adjusted by small increments.
How to Choose a Furnace by Manufacturer or Brand
A company should have a good reputations and history. In addition to comparing their products, the consumer should investigate the warranties and after sales care.
What is a High Efficiency, Condensing Furnace?
High efficiency means that 90% or more of the gas is being burnt and translated in to heat in the home, compared to older models which allowed 20% or more of the fuel to go straight out of the flue. Read here about condensing boilers.
The Fan or Blower on a Forced Air Heating System
A substantial amount of electricity is required to operate the blower which circulates the air around the ducting of a property. Modern furnaces have a number of settings for the fan which can make air circulation more efficient. The power consumed has been reduced in many models and may be as little as 100 watts, the same as a traditional light bulb. This should be investigated before deciding on a furnace.
What Furnace Size is Necessary?
The furnace out put will be assessed by the heating contractor. The contractor must visit the property and assess the size of the furnace output in relation to the size and structure of the building. They should examine the current ducting and advise on repairs or replacement.The biggest is not the best, a furnace which is too big will not work well.
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