What to Look for in a New Furnace

The winter months are typically fairly mild in Mobile, Alabama, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need home heating. There are many things to consider when choosing a new model, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you need to know if you’re in the market for a new furnace.

Know Your Options

The first step in selecting a furnace is to decide which fuel type is best for you. The most common fuel is natural gas. If it’s available for your home, natural gas delivers clean, efficient and affordable heating. Oil and propane are also popular choices, particularly in remote areas where gas may not be an option. It’s also worth considering special features like variable speed motors and compressors. These units adjust their operating speed to ensure more consistent temperatures, better efficiency and lower operating noise.

Evaluate Efficiency

Replacing or installing a new heating system is often a great opportunity to boost your efficiency. The efficiency of a unit is represented by a metric called annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). In simple terms, an AFUE rating indicates the percentage of fuel a heater turns into usable heat. Most modern units feature an AFUE of 80 percent or more. Some high-end units may reach efficiencies well over 90 percent. A higher efficiency rating may or may not be worth the added cost for your home. Consider how much you typically spend on heating in a year before making a decision.

There’s no substitute for clean, efficient and dependable heating. A new heater is a big decision, but the right choice can improve comfort and save money for years to come. For more information on how to make the most of your home heating, check out Air Specialty’s furnace installation services or call 251-415-4559 to speak with our friendly staff today.