Purchasing a new furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump is a major investment for any homeowner. Not only is it a significant expense, but the system you choose will impact your comfort, energy bills, and home value for years to come.
With so many options on the market and factors to consider, the process of buying a new furnace can feel overwhelming. However, by doing your research, planning ahead, and following some key tips, you can make an informed decision and get the best system for your needs and budget.
Do Your Research
Before you start shopping for a new furnace, it’s important to have at least a basic understanding of what you need. Consider factors like the size of your home and system you might need, your climate, your energy source (gas, oil, electric), and your efficiency preferences.
Familiarize yourself with different furnace types (like single-stage, two-stage, and modulating) and key specs like AFUE rating, which measures a furnace’s efficiency.
While you don’t need to become an HVAC expert, having some foundational knowledge will help you compare options and avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous salespeople.
And while the contractor you choose to do the installation is arguably just as – or even more important – than the brand you choose, you may also want to browse some customer feedback and reviews and average prices.
Compare Quotes and Deal with Reputable Companies
Once you know what you’re looking for, gather quotes from multiple HVAC companies. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true – suspiciously cheap systems may be improperly sized, may be used, or installed by cutting corners.
Focus on authorized dealers of major, reputable furnace brands. These companies will have the training and experience to properly size your system based on a thorough evaluation of your home.
They’ll also offer robust warranties and stand behind their work. While cost is always a factor, don’t just go with the lowest bidder – look for the best overall value in terms of price, quality, and service.
Right-Size Your System
One of the most important factors in furnace performance is proper sizing. An oversized furnace will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to uneven temperatures, higher energy bills, and more wear and tear. An undersized unit will struggle to keep up on the coldest days.
A reputable HVAC contractor will perform a Manual J load calculation to determine the ideal furnace size, taking into account your home’s square footage, layout, insulation, windows, and more. Don’t let anyone give you a ballpark estimate or try to sell you the biggest unit available.
Keep It Simple
When it comes to furnace installation, simpler is often better. Unless you’re doing a major renovation like totally refinishing your basement, try to have your new furnace installed in the same location as your existing one.
Relocating the system can add significant costs and complexity. However if your furnace is currently in a hard-to-reach place like a crawlspace, you may consider moving it to a more accessible spot like a basement or utility room.
This will make future maintenance and repairs much easier. Overall, work with your installer to find the most straightforward, cost-effective solution.
Time Your Purchase Right
Like many industries, especially seasonal one, the world of HVAC has busy and slow seasons. If possible, plan your furnace purchase for the off-season—early spring or late summer. Avoid late fall or the peak of winter, or the beginning of summer when demand is highest and you’re most likely to face delays or premium pricing.
You’ll have more flexibility and bargaining power when companies are hungry for business. That said, don’t wait until your current system completely breaks down. If your furnace is nearing the end of its life, start planning whether to replace your old unit before you’re in an emergency situation with no heat.
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Shop Deals and Incentives
While you never want to cut corners on quality, there are often opportunities to save on a furnace purchase. In addition to seasonal promotions from HVAC companies, look for manufacturer rebates, especially during slower periods.
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Many utility companies also offer incentives for upgrading to high-efficiency systems. Finally, see if you qualify for any tax credits or government rebates based on the type of furnace you choose.
Have a Backup Plan
Even the highest-end furnace can break down unexpectedly, so it’s wise to have a backup heat source. If you live in a milder climate, a heat pump can provide efficient heating and cooling and serve as a redundant system.
Preparing ahead of time should be a part of getting your home ready for winter.
Wood stoves, fireplaces, and space heaters can also provide emergency heat. Just be sure to follow all safety precautions and never rely on unvented combustion appliances like propane or kerosene heaters indoors.
Consider Financing
If the upfront cost of a new furnace is daunting, look into financing options. Many HVAC companies partner with lenders to offer payment plans, some with promotional low or no interest periods. You may also be able to finance through a home equity loan or line of credit, which could offer tax advantages.
Compare terms and rates carefully, and don’t take on a payment you can’t afford just to get top-of-the-line equipment. Better to find a reliable, efficient system that fits your budget.
Invest in Your Home’s Envelope
Regardless of how great your new furnace is, you won’t be comfortable and your bills will be higher if your home is drafty and poorly insulated. Proper air sealing, ample insulation, and high-performance windows will keep the heat in, allowing your furnace to operate less frequently. If you’re already investing in a new heating system, consider an energy audit and taking steps to weatherize your home at the same time.
Ultimately, the key to a successful furnace purchase is being an educated consumer. By doing your research, planning ahead, working with trusted professionals, and making smart financial decisions, you can enjoy reliable, efficient, and affordable heat for years to come, even on the coldest winter days.
A new furnace may be a major investment, but it’s one that will pay off every time you come in from the cold to a warm, comfortable home.
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