Finding ways to stay warm while it’s cold outside is natural. The last thing you want is to be sitting around your home freezing because your furnace isn’t working, but should that happen, here’s how you can purchase a new one.
Picking out a furnace isn’t as easy as driving up to a clothing store, picking something off a mannequin and then going home. Instead, the furnace selection process is one that takes much thought.
First, you must choose a furnace that fits your climate. Depending on where you live, some furnaces will be better equipped to help you than others. Some furnaces are also energy-efficient which will make them cost more upfront but save in the long run.
Next, you need to choose which type of furnace you’ll want to invest in. There are three main options of gas furnaces:
- Modulating Gas – this is a gas furnace that is ideal for colder climates.
- Two-stage Gas – this is a two-stage gas furnace that also helps with efficiency with its lower or higher gas flow power.
- Single-stage Gas – this is a single-stage gas furnace that’s perfect for milk climates as it operates at 80% AFUE.
Electric furnaces come in two main options:
- Oil furnace – For homeowners who have limited fuel access, this is often the only solution.
- Electric furnace – An electric furnace is not as economical as a gas furnace, but they are very popular for home heating needs.
Now that you know which option you want and the best option for your climate, you need to choose a model that is the correct size for your home. Just like an air conditioner, your furnace size is based on the amount of square footage that it needs to warm.
Finally, you need to complete your final research inspection of the unit you want to purchase by going online and reading reviews on the unit. Make sure the prices listed are the same as you’re seeing in-store or through any company you are using to make your purchase.