9 Things to Consider Before Upgrading Your Electric Furnace
Are you considering upgrading your electric furnace? While this is a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce costs, there are a few things to consider before you make the switch. Here are nine tips for making sure that you get the best possible upgrade for your electric furnace.
1. Efficiency Rating
When it comes to stepping outside your comfort zone and upgrading your electric furnace, an efficiency rating should be at the top of your list of priorities. It’s important to remember that the higher the efficiency rating on a product is, the more energy you save in the long run, which translates into cost savings while protecting our environment with lower greenhouse gas emissions. It can be daunting to invest in a new furnace, but it’s an investment worth making.
Knowing which types of furnaces would suit your needs is key, and paying attention to efficiency rating ensures that you make the soundest economic choice with maximum benefits for both your wallet and the environment. With proper research and the help of a professional, you can weigh the price differences between multiple products based on their efficiency ratings and make an informed decision. Look for an electric furnace with an AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) rating of at least 90%.
2. Size
Not only do you need a unit that fits perfectly inside your existing space, but it’s also important to make sure it works efficiently. An oversized model can lead to wasted energy, while one that is too small won’t be able to keep up with your heating needs. Additionally, if you opt for a furnace that is too large, it will cycle on and off more frequently than necessary, which can wreak havoc on both your wallet and the environment.
Therefore, before taking the plunge into purchasing a new unit, be sure to measure the current size accurately and consult with a professional when selecting the one that is the right size for your home. Doing this will ensure optimal performance and help you save energy over the life of the unit.
3. Heating Capacity
Heating capacity determines the amount of heat in BTUs (British thermal units) that your unit is able to generate, and a unit without enough power won’t be able to heat your home on a cold winter day adequately. Depending on the geography and climate where you live, the heating capacity can range widely. The wrong size of a furnace will result in cold air flowing through your home. A professional HVAC technician can provide expertise about choosing a furnace with sufficient heating capacity for your geographic area, allowing for maximum efficiency and comfort.
4. Installation Requirements
Something that many homeowners forget to factor in when upgrading their electric furnace is the installation requirements. If your existing unit was installed in an area without adequate access to electrical connections, for instance, it might not be possible to simply unplug the old furnace and plug in a new one. Upgrading could require rewiring or other modifications to make sure everything meets safety standards and functions correctly. This means that extra time and resources may be needed for a successful installation, so make sure you consider these additional project costs when you budget for the upgrade.
5. Warranties
Investing in a new electric furnace can be a major expense. To ensure that your purchase is not lost money, consider the power and importance of warranties. A good warranty policy on your electric furnace can provide peace of mind and financial reassurance in the event of an unfortunate breakdown or malfunction.
Not only will a warranty cover repair costs, but it may also cover labor costs while providing additional coverage like replacement parts and more. Before making a purchase decision concerning your furnace, be sure to thoroughly understand the details of its warranty coverage so you know exactly what you’re paying for should anything arise down the line.
6. Energy Star Certification
When you purchase an electric furnace, look for the Energy Star certification to ensure that you’re getting a model with superior energy efficiency. All products with the Energy Star label are vigorously tested by independent third-party agencies and must meet energy standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in order to receive this certification.
When compared to standard models, choosing an Energy Star-certified electric furnace can result in substantial energy savings as they use less power while maintaining optimal indoor temperatures. In addition, many electric furnace models also have additional smart-energy features such as variable speed fan motors and two-stage heaters that further increase your savings potential.
7. Noise Level
A furnace that is too noisy can be displeasing and disruptive. An up-to-date furnace features technology that often provides quieter operation than furnaces from generations past. Taking time to research noise output levels can go a long way toward creating space in your home where you will find peace and quiet. During your decision process, make sure to inquire with professionals about the sound levels of furnaces. Doing so will ensure you get the right fit for optimal comfort and relaxation.
8. Safety Features
Many modern electric furnaces come equipped with safety features such as carbon monoxide detectors, flame sensors, and temperature limiters. These features can help prevent fires or other dangerous situations from occurring in your home due to malfunctions. Make sure any model you consider meets all applicable safety standards and adheres to local code regulations in your area.
9. Maintenance Needs
When it comes to upgrading your electric furnace, keeping a close eye on its maintenance needs is key. This requires an understanding of what kind of servicing is required for each model you are considering. While some units may only need a simple cleaning every few months, other models may need more in-depth servicing at least once or twice a year to keep them running efficiently for years to come.
Even if the purchase price of one model seems more reasonable initially, remember that its frequent servicing needs can add up and end up being more costly over time than opting for a higher-quality model. Before selecting an electric furnace upgrade, take a closer look at all the available models and their maintenance needs so that you can make a wise decision and enjoy the benefits of having an efficient furnace in the long run.
Contact Our Professionals Today!
At John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Electrical we offer high-quality furnace installation services throughout Lincoln and the surrounding area. We can help you find the right electric furnace for your home and budget. Our team also installs geothermal systems, heat pumps, and boilers. We provide installation financing for customers with approved credit. You can also count on us for heating maintenance and repairs, including 24/7 emergency repairs. Looking for cooling services? We provide those as well. Our other services include drain cleaning, sewer line repair and installation, water heater and filtration installation, indoor air quality solutions, and commercial HVAC.
Give us a call at John Henry's Plumbing, Heating, Air, and Electrical today to learn more about our services or set up an appointment.
