Most residential furnaces last up to 20 years with proper care, which means many people only buy one or two in a lifetime. New heating equipment is a significant investment, and it’s important to make careful decisions. Below are several questions to ask when choosing a new furnace.
What Size Should a New Furnace Be?
Many companies that offer Furnace Repair Services in Bellingham WA will simply replace the home’s furnace with another unit of the same capacity or estimate the right size. Either method can easily leave a homeowner with a furnace that’s too big (which wastes energy), or too small (which won’t heat the home). If a system is improperly sized, it’s more likely to break down and lead to costly repairs. Ideally, the technician should perform a load calculation that considers the size of the home, the shade it receives, the insulation it has, and how many people live there before making any replacement recommendations.
How is a Furnace’s Efficiency Measured?
Furnace makers attempt to make units that are efficient and don’t require much energy to run the fans or blowers. The AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating is the standard efficiency measurement, and all new furnaces must be labeled with AFUE and operational cost information. With that information, customers can make accurate comparisons between potential replacement units. The most efficient unit a customer can afford is typically their most economical long-term choice.
How Important is Maintenance?
Regular Furnace Repair Services in Bellingham WA are often necessary even for newer systems. After the furnace is installed, the homeowner should check the filter once a month and replace it when necessary. Furnaces should be inspected once a year to prevent breakdowns, keep air quality high, and keep the family comfortable. With proper maintenance, customers can help their furnaces last as long as possible.
Buying a new furnace is a big decision that can have long-term effects on a customer’s energy usage and overall comfort. Because these units last so long, it’s important to choose one the buyer will be satisfied with. Call today or visit for more details or to schedule a service call.
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