In an ideal scenario, budget constraints wouldn’t limit your furnace selection process. However, in reality, understanding how to weigh efficiency ratings is crucial when purchasing a new furnace. To make this process easier, follow these key steps:
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AFUE Ratings: Furnaces are rated based on their ability to generate heat per unit of fuel consumed, known as the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This rating is expressed as a percentage, indicating the proportion of consumed fuel converted into heat. For instance, an AFUE rating of 90 percent means 90 percent efficiency in heat production.
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Understand Your Needs: When deciding between repairing and upgrading, assess the age and condition of your current furnace. If it’s over 15 years old with an AFUE rating below 70 percent, upgrading may be more economical. Consulting professionals of an HVAC company in Champlin MN to calculate your home’s heating load is advisable.
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Put It in Perspective: New furnaces are legally required to have a minimum AFUE of 78 percent, while highly efficient models can reach up to 97 percent. A certified technician, considering your heating load, can estimate the annual operating costs for furnaces with different AFUE ratings, aiding in an informed decision.
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Budget Wisely: Given Minnesota’s cold climate, higher AFUE models often prove to be cost-effective in the long run. If you can extend your budget for potential savings over 10-15 years, it’s a prudent investment. However, if you’re planning to move soon, this might not be as advantageous.
For professional guidance in assessing efficiency ratings for your new furnace, reach out to Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning, serving the Twin Cities metro area for nearly four decades.