Furnace Review

Furnace Review

Coming home to a warm house during the stormy winter months is always comforting. Having an appropriate home furnace in both size and type is crucial in providing a comfortable living environment. There are three main types of furnaces: natural gas, oil, and electric. Many issues play a role in selecting the best furnace for your home. The climate, however, is the biggest factor in the decision process.

Which Furnace is Right for You?

Oil Furnace

Oil Furnaces are the most practical and efficient option in colder regions for prompt heating. Oil burning furnaces are able to burn more than 20 degrees hotter than a natural gas furnace or electric furnace. Oil furnaces are made to last because of the high temperatures at which they burn. It is not uncommon to find an oil furnace that is still in operation after 50 or more years.

Natural Gas Furnace

In more temperate regions a natural gas furnace is sufficient in keeping the home thoroughly heated. A home gas furnace is not as warm as an oil furnace, but still provides adequately warm air at each register. Natural gas furnaces are very energy efficient, nevertheless, to ensure that you have the most efficient gas furnace look for a furnace that is above 90% annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).

Electric furnace

With electric furnaces, the temperature is more easily controlled and cleaner than other forms of home heating furnaces. This is because electric furnaces do not involve any form of fuel combustion. However, with only a 35% efficiency rating many individuals often shy away from electric forced air furnaces, however depending on the cost of electricity in your area an electric furnace can be the most economical option.

Still Need Help Selecting a Furnace?

If you still are not sure which furnace is right for you consider hiring a local contractor to help. Choosing the right contractor can often be as confusing and frustrating as knowing which furnace is best for your home.

Need a New Furnace?—QualitySmith Provides Results

QualitySmith has done all the busy work of pre-screening local furnace contractors, making sure they are licensed and insured in your state as well as following up with clients to ensure the contractor's work provides quality results. Here is how it works—you provide the project details and QualitySmith does the rest—providing you with up to three pre-screened contractors for your furnace project.

Disclaimer: This article offers general guidelines and is not intended as professional advice.