There are a number of reasons why high-efficiency furnaces are worth the money. High-efficiency furnaces cost more at first, but you will see major savings in utility bills and an improvement in your home’s comfort.

A high-efficiency gas furnace is often called a condensing furnace. Unlike traditional furnaces, this heating system uses a second heat exchanger that captures additional heating energy before the furnace will exhaust gases and this additional heat outside through PVC pipes.

If you’re not convinced yet, here are seven reasons to replace your old furnace with a high-efficiency furnace!

1. Reduced Energy Bills

One of the top benefits high-efficiency furnaces offer is cheaper energy bills. The high-efficiency rating means these heating systems use less fuel to heat your home, potentially saving thousands on utility costs in the long run.

Gas furnaces have a fuel utilization efficiency, AFUE, rating. This means annual fuel utilization efficiency. It calculates how well your furnace utilizes natural gas for producing heat. The greater the rating, the more usable heat you’ll get and the more efficient it will be.

2. Better Comfort

A high-efficiency gas furnace is designed to provide comfortable heat during all types of weather and in especially cold climates. The most efficient gas furnaces often will have two heat exchangers, a sealed combustion chamber and a variable-speed blower. Instead of turning on high constantly, the furnace can run at a lower speed when needed and deliver more usable heat at steadier temperatures. This also means it will use less natural gas.

3. Reduced Noise

A high-efficiency gas furnace is generally much quieter than standard furnaces because it doesn’t have to work as hard or burn as hot to heat your home. This is especially helpful for those who need a quiet environment for sleeping or studying. If you’re worried about quiet operation, a two-stage furnace makes less noise because it can operate at a lower speed.

4. Healthier Indoor Air Quality

High-efficiency gas furnaces are made with increased levels of air filtration to catch pollutants before they can pollute your air, which is especially useful for those who live in places that have a lot of dust and other impurities.

5. Better for the Environment

High-efficiency furnaces are an green solution for heating your home. They have a high energy efficiency rating that saves on natural gas fuel expenses while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

6. Additional Rebates

Buying a high-efficiency furnace may make you eligible for additional rebates, especially if you buy one that’s ENERGY STAR® certified. A gas furnace that’s received this certification must meet high standards for natural gas-to-heat use.

These annual fuel utilization efficiency standards include:

  • 95% AFUE or higher for northern climates
  • 90% AFUE or better for southern climates

In addition to the extra rebates and the great comfort your furnace delivers, you’ll appreciate reduced energy costs throughout its life span.

7. Compatible with Smart Thermostats

Most homeowners have a programmable thermostat for their gas furnace but have no clue how to use it. A 192-person study published by the Energy Research and Social Science journal found:

  • 42% didn’t know how to program the thermostat.
  • 14% didn’t know where the settings are located.
  • 25% know where the settings are located but didn’t know how to change them.

With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to be guessing about keeping your home at an energy-efficient temperature. Your thermostat will learn your temperature preferences and create energy savings for your higher efficiency gas furnace.

Since most smart thermostats are ENERGY STAR qualified, utility companies frequently offer big rebates. Here’s how you can get a smart thermostat for free (or close to it).

Get Your Free Estimate Today for a High-Efficiency Furnace

A high-efficiency furnace will help you save money on natural gas costs. If it also comes with rebates to balance out the preliminary cost, why not make the most of it and upgrade your old furnace? We’re here to address any questions you have about a new heating system, furnace efficiency and sorting through higher efficiency models. Contact us today at 319-208-2351 for a free estimate appointment for your new furnace. We’ve been offering furnace installation in Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas since {year}, and we’re proud to be the company your neighbors and friends depend on.