10 Steps to buy an energy efficient furnace

10 Most Frequently Asked Questions before Buying a Furnace

1. How do you tell if the furnace is efficient?

The best bet is to choose a furnace with an EnergyStar® label. On the label look for furnaces with efficiencies of at least 94%.

2. What size should I be looking to purchase?

On average, furnaces should be sized 30-40% larger than the calculated heating requirements of the home, but no more. In this case bigger is not better. 

3. Does the furnace have a two-stage or multi-stage burner?

Two-stage or multi-stage burners burn fuel at different rates. Low settings, which can be more efficient, provide enough heat to keep the house warm in most weather. In very cold weather, or when additional heating capacity two-stage or multi-stage furnaces will automatically shift to a higher setting to provide additional heat.

4. What size and type of furnace fan motor should I buy?

This detail is one that is overlooked all the time and really indicates the amount of electricity that the furnace blower fan motor will use. If it is too big, it could end up costing more to operate than necessary. This is especially true when the furnace fan is used with a central air-conditioning system or to continuously circulate air in the home. The best solution is that your supplier should confirm that the motor is sized for just heating, or both heating and air-conditioning. Also ask whether it is sized properly for the ducting and if it delivers heat evenly to all rooms.

5. What is the best brand or model of furnace?

There are many reputable brands and models of furnaces. The best advice is to ask your local supplier. As a buyers,  when comparing brands, remember to check the total energy efficiency, including both heating fuel and electricity use.

6.  What kind of thermostat should I install?

Consider buying a thermostat that can be programmed to lower temperatures overnight and when the house is unoccupied for more than four hours.

7. Will modifications to combustion air supply be required?

Homes need to breathe. Fresh air is needed for combustion in furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, gas water heaters and clothes dryers. In most cases, when installing a furnace the combustion air supply can be significantly reduced in size, depending on other combustion appliances that are in use in the home.

8. Will the furnace be compatible with central air conditioning?

Furnaces used in conjunction with central air conditioning need to circulate more air than those used solely for heating in order to ensure that the cooling coils do not freeze up. It is important that anyone providing you with quotes knows in advance that you have central air.

9. Will a condensate pump be required?

A condensate pump is a specific type of pump used to pump the condensate or water produced in an HVAC, heating, cooling or refrigeration system. Condensate pumps usually run intermittently and have a tank in which condensate can accumulate. Important specifications for condensate pumps include power type and source, flow, cord length, shut off, pump materials and size. In some cases, a small electric pump will be installed with the furnace to pump furnace condensate to your sewer. Make sure to ask if a condensate pump will be required.

10. What should I ask for in my quote?

•  Removing the old furnace from your home.
• Modifications to existing ductwork, if required.
• Any modifications to the wiring to the furnace.
• Installation of vents and modifications to the chimney.
• The cost of permits and inspections.