If it looks like it is time to buy a new furnace, the first question you are probably asking is “how much will this cost?” The fact is, it depends. Learning more about your home’s heating needs, types of furnaces, and what to look out for in a good furnace can help. Not only will this knowledge help you save money on your new furnace, but understanding the differences between various types of furnaces can help you care for your HVAC system more effectively too.
In St. Louis and the surrounding areas, if you would like to speak with a heating & air conditioning professional about the types of furnaces that may be best-suited to your home’s needs, give us a call today!
Types of Furnaces
There are a few different types of furnaces that are common in American homes, although gas definitely dominates the market, especially in the St. Louis area. Natural gas is a widely available fuel option and is cheaper than oil and electric. Here is what you should know about gas furnaces as well as the other types of furnaces most commonly available:
- Natural gas: For most homes, a gas furnace is the best option. They are more cost-effective and energy-efficient than the other types of furnaces with lower operating costs. Gas furnaces are the best at overcoming extreme cold too. So, if you need a lot of heat, or have a large space to take care of, gas is the way to go.
- Oil furnaces: Oil is a less popular choice, but oil furnaces can often be found in the Northeast. While new gas furnaces can be up to 98% efficiency, oil furnaces average only 80-90% energy efficiency.
- Propane: While propane has few advantages over the other potential furnace fuel sources, it is a good option for those living in remote areas. Propane can be stored easily in tanks and is used to heat almost 10% of American homes.
- Electric: When comparing types of furnaces, electric is by far the cheapest option up front. An electric furnace can cost half as much as a gas furnace to purchase and install. They also last longer, sometimes outliving gas furnaces by 10 years. Still, electricity is expensive, and electric heating can be more costly than other alternatives.
What to Consider When Buying a Furnace
You have considered the types of furnaces you can choose from, so what is next in determining the best option to heat your home? One thing to look at is brand. Currently, the top brands in furnaces are: Lennox, Trane, Carrier, and American Standard. For an option that is more budget-friendly while still effective, Goodman furnaces are a great option. The brand you choose has an impact on furnace replacement cost, but so does the installation process. Make sure to consider installation and maintenance costs when comparing furnaces.
Finally, make sure you have the right size furnace for your home. Your HVAC service team can help you determine what size you need, and they can also help you compare types of furnaces in terms of how they will heat your home.
Learn More About Different Furnace Types
To learn more about the different types of furnaces and which one might be right for your home, get in touch with Galmiche & Sons. In St. Louis and the surrounding area, our heating & air conditioning professionals are ready to assist you today.
