Furnaces may be costly to repair or maintain, so it’s imperative that any investment you make — including replacements — produces returns. Getting the most value out of your furnace replacements ensures your purchase pays off.
The article will cover four key aspects to gain the most value from a furnace replacement. So, let’s get started.
You can find more guidance on furnace replacement costs in IMS Heating and Repair’s furnace replacement cost guide here.
1) Look for ENERGY STAR systems
When purchasing a furnace, looking out for the blue ENERGY STAR logo is important. The label meets rigorous energy-efficiency specifications set by government agencies; since 1992, it has helped Americans save $450 billion in energy costs while cutting greenhouse gases by 4 billion metric tons.
An investment in a high-efficiency furnace will save money month after month and may qualify you for rebates through your state, local, or utility company — these rebates cover many products and appliances, including those certified ENERGY STAR for heating and cooling systems.
2) Check your energy bills
Before committing to replace your furnace, assessing how much it costs is essential. Start by gathering up all of the energy bills from over the past year — this will give a good indication of your current energy expenses.
To get a ballpark idea of the energy your furnace is using, deduct the entire number of kilowatts that you utilized from the total square footage of your property. Finally, calculate fuel costs by multiplying this number by 30 BTUs per square foot (an industry standard size for furnaces).
Once you know your numbers, the next step is finding a furnace that meets both your budget and heating needs. An experienced heating professional is recommended as they can consider factors like home size, insulation value and your wants/needs when suggesting a furnace.
Furthermore, they may help determine whether tax credits or rebates apply based on energy-efficiency ratings for tax credit eligibility, as well as compare different brands by asking relevant questions regarding warranties or energy-efficiency ratings.
3) Upgrade your insulation
Upgraded home insulation is likely one of the best investments you can make. It reduces energy costs, increases resale value and can create a healthier indoor environment by decreasing dust and allergens and managing condensation levels.
Old and inadequate insulation allows heat to escape during winter, forcing your heating system to work even harder than necessary to stay warm. Upgrading to higher R-values will minimize this loss and ensure your furnace operates at maximum efficiency.
While it’s essential to inspect all areas where insulation resides in your home, particular attention must be given to areas like your attic, walls between heated areas (like a garage) and unheated spaces such as basements or crawl spaces that often have little or no insulation.
Moisture can damage insulation, leading to mold growth, which in turn compromises health; add insulation through an air sealing and insulation upgrade project in these spaces for increased protection and comfort.
4) Upgrade your thermostat
Upgrading your thermostat might seem overlooked in home heating, but investing in a newer model can significantly boost energy efficiency and lead to cost savings.
If you currently use a manual thermostat, consider investing in a programmable one instead.
Programmable thermostats let you schedule when or if your furnace should turn on during times when no one is home — reducing its workload during those periods.
Before beginning installation of your new thermostat, first switch off your furnace’s service switch and disconnect its wires. Remove the old back cover of your thermostat, use a pencil to mark its screw openings on its new backplate, screw it down securely onto the wall and reconnect all wires as per its manual if needed.
5) Upgrade your air filters
Your furnace filter is one of its most vital components. Its purpose is to capture dust and debris that would otherwise harm its blower fan and heating coil, but an ineffective filter reduces performance, increasing energy costs while decreasing performance capabilities.
Replacing furnace filters is straightforward and cost-effective. Partially unplug the old filter to inspect its dimensions (usually printed on its frame in length, width and height), then purchase one that matches them precisely. Hence, it fits snugly without gaps.
Basic furnace home air filters can be easily found at hardware, home improvement and grocery stores for an economical price. Thicker filters offer better filtration but may limit airflow more than thinner models.
Check with your home warranty plan to determine which filter they recommend; they should have a list of preferred equipment manufacturers and models that work with your system – ask about pricing and installation procedures as well.
Final thoughts
Maximizing the value of your furnace replacement involves many different considerations, from investing in ENERGY STAR-certified products, smart thermostat upgrades, enhanced insulation and regular filter replacements — to regular filter changes themselves.
These strategies will help you create an energy-efficient home, reduce your utility costs and ensure a more comfortable living environment. Working with an experienced heating professional is also key here — they will guide you through this process and assist in making informed decisions.
