While summer and fall are excellent times to start planning a new furnace installation for your Pittsburgh area home, it’s never too early to start comparing the different models if you know that you will need to replace your furnace.
What key choices should homeowners make before installing a new furnace?
- Compare fuel type options, natural gas (if available) is typically more convenient and space‑saving than oil.
- Evaluate AFUE efficiency ratings to gauge long‑term energy and cost savings.
- Review furnace performance history and heating bills to decide if a high‑efficiency model makes sense.
- Discuss with a professional contractor to match system size and features to your home’s needs.
There are some decisions you will need to make prior to the furnace installation, such as what type of furnace you want to install and what features are most important to you. You can always call Boehmer Heating & Cooling for advice. Meanwhile, we’ve put together some things to think about as you start making these decisions.
You can begin making your decisions by monitoring your heating bills and paying attention to how well your current furnace is performing. Are you paying outrageously high heating bills? How did your furnace test during the annual tune-up? If you decide that you want a high-efficiency system, you’ll need to know how to read and compare the AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) percentages and why AFUE ratings matter when installing a new furnace.
It’s a good idea to begin speaking with your heating contractor about the different models on the market, and they should be able to help you select the most cost-efficient furnace for your home. You’ll also need to decide what type of fuel you want to use. For instance, if your home has access to natural gas, heating with a gas furnace is much easier than getting oil delivered, and if you switch over, you will also save space since there’s no tank involved. If you’re still weighing your options, consider whether a boiler or furnace is right for your Pittsburgh home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What should I evaluate in my current furnace before installing a new one?
Answer: Review your heating bills and annual tune-up results to assess performance. If costs are high or efficiency is low, consider upgrading to a more efficient system, especially if you notice frequent issues during service inspections.
Question: How important is AFUE when choosing a new furnace?
Answer: AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) indicates how efficiently the furnace converts fuel into heat. Higher percentages mean greater efficiency and lower heating costs. Comparing AFUE ratings helps select a cost-effective system that suits your home’s needs.
Question: Should I choose a gas, oil, or electric furnace?
Answer: Consider fuel availability and infrastructure. Natural gas is convenient if already connected, whereas oil requires delivery and tank space. Propane and electric are alternatives depending on your location and preferences for installation and maintenance.
Question: When is the best time to plan for a furnace installation in Pittsburgh?
Answer: Summer and fall are ideal planning times for a winter install. Starting early lets you compare models, explore incentives, and ensure contractors can schedule before demand picks up in colder months.
Question: How can talking to a contractor help before installing a furnace?
Answer: Contractors provide insight on model options, proper sizing, cost efficiency, and compliance with rebates or tax credits. Their guidance ensures you choose a furnace that matches your home’s heating needs and budget.
Don’t hesitate to call Boehmer Heating & Cooling if you having any questions about installing a heating system in Pittsburgh! For further assistance, check out our tips on how to check if your HVAC system is the right size.
