Buying the “Right” New Furnace

With today’s furnaces offering many new features, higher efficiency ratings, and coming with higher price tags, knowing what to ask an HVAC contractor is important when selecting the right furnace for your home and getting a quality installation.

If your old furnace has stopped working or is incurring regular service calls, it’s time for a new, high-efficiency furnace.

But, even if your old furnace seems to work okay, it might be time to consider replacing it with a more efficient model—to save money over the long run and enjoy more comfort and quiet now.

So Many Questions?????
Choosing a new furnace comes with a number of questions.  How you answer them can have a big impact on how much you spend on your new heating system.

Determine the Size of Furnace Needed
Before selecting a furnace, be sure your contractor does a load calculation to determine the appropriate furnace capacity.  A furnace that is too big for your home will run more frequently and waste energy.  One that is too small will not generate enough heat.

It was common practice with older furnaces to oversize them so that the house was always warm.  But new higher efficiency furnaces can have a lower BTU rating and still put out the same amount of heat.  For example, a new 94 percent efficient furnace that is rated at 80,000 BTU puts out as much heat as an old 75 percent efficient 100,000 BTU furnace.

High vs. Very High Efficiency
Determining whether to buy a high efficiency or a very high efficiency unit depends on a number of factors.  Very high efficiency furnaces will lower your heating bills to a greater extent, but also come with a higher initial price tag.  They can also be more costly to maintain.

In order to get an appropriate payback on a very high efficiency unit, take into account these factors:
•    You live in a cold climate.
•    You will be staying in your house for 10 years or more.
•    Local energy costs are high.
•    You’re replacing an old, low efficiency heating system.
•    The price difference is not compounded by high contractor mark up.
•    You can take advantage of local, state or utility rebates and incentives.

Buy a Reputable Brand
Stick with the major brands.  If you don’t recognize the brand, do your own online checking before buying.  Make sure you confirm the claims the contractor is making.

Get a Proposal, Not Just a Price Quote
Choose a contractor who provides a detailed written proposal that outlines exactly what they commit to doing and not doing.  They should list the manufacturer and model number of the proposed equipment as well as the cost of any plumbing, venting changes or electrical work required.  Confirm that your contractor will remove your old furnace without additional charges.

Be Comfortable with Your Contractor
Select  a contractor you can trust—one who is knowledgeable, dependable, licensed and located close enough to provide prompt service.  Ask friends and family about their experiences and check out ratings on online sites.

Free Estimates from MECKO’s
Let us take a look and provide a Free Estimate on upgrading your heating system. We’ll be happy to go over your options and get your home or business ready for the winter months that are just ahead.

Don’t Forget!
MECKO’S Fall Furnace Tune Up Special
Mecko’s Heating and Cooling is offering its Fall Furnace Tune Up Special right now for just $79.00.   To schedule an appointment online go to Make An Appointment or call us at 765-447-7555.

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