5 Questions to Ask When Buying a New Furnace

When the chilly winter winds blow through your Pacific Northwest home, a reliable furnace is essential for comfort and warmth. If your current furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan or simply isn’t cutting it anymore, it’s time to invest in a new one.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right furnace for your needs?

Rely on Carrier for Quality

Let Carrier Northwest be your first choice for Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers in Montana, Oregon, and Washington. We have compiled a few essential questions to ask prospective heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) contractors while shopping for a new furnace. 

Consider what you need before you buy. A Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer can help you focus on solutions that suit your unique needs and can offer equipment options that fit your budget. Carrier has manufactured reliable and quality HVAC products for over a century.  

Choose a nearby HVAC dealer from our Carrier Northwest online directory. Click our Find A Dealer link to get started!

Key Considerations When Buying a New Furnace

A new heater is a significant investment, and you can trust your Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer to expertly install it so that you and your loved ones stay comfortable for years to come.

Here are a few factors to consider before you begin shopping:

  1. Determine Your Needs: Before you start shopping, assess your home’s specific heating requirements. Consider factors like its size, insulation, and the climate in your area.
  2. Set a Budget: Furnaces come in a wide range of prices, so it’s crucial to establish a budget before you begin your search. While upfront costs are important, long-term energy efficiency can significantly impact your overall savings.
  3. Research Furnace Types: Several types of furnaces are available, including gas, electric, and oil. Each has its own pros and cons, so research the options that best suit your home and local energy resources.
  4. Consider Efficiency: A furnace’s efficiency is measured by its annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). A higher AFUE means the furnace converts more of the fuel it consumes into heat, resulting in lower energy bills.
  5. Ventilation Requirements: Depending on the type of furnace you choose, you may need to update your home’s ventilation system. Consult with a professional to determine if any modifications are necessary.
  6. Warranty and Maintenance: A good warranty can provide peace of mind, so be sure to inquire about the manufacturer’s warranty coverage. Additionally, ask about routine maintenance requirements and costs.

Federal Tax Credits for New Furnaces

Ask prospective installers about financing options, rebates, and tax credits. If you are interested in a higher-priced unit but are hesitant about the price, a combination of financial incentives may be enough to lower the cost substantially.

You can get a 30 percent federal tax credit on select furnaces through 2032. Visit ENERGY STAR®  for more information.

Furnace Questions to Ask HVAC Contractors

Ready to make an informed decision on a new furnace? These five questions will help:

  1. How much will I pay?
    A written cost estimate should detail how much you will pay for the furnace and installation. Ask about any additional costs, such as permits and ductwork repairs. 
  1. What is the AFUE?
    The annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) measures how efficiently a furnace uses fuel, such as natural gas, propane, or oil, to produce heat. The higher the number, the more efficient the furnace. An 80 percent AFUE means the furnace converts 80 percent of its fuel into heat. High-efficiency furnaces have AFUE ratings from 90 to 98.5 percent. 
  1. Does the furnace need a new venting system?
    If you upgrade from a low-efficiency furnace to one with an AFUE in the 80 percent range, gases will exhaust through your existing chimney. If you upgrade to a high-efficiency condensing furnace, you will need a new venting system because the acidic condensate produced during heating does not vent through the chimney.

    Ask about the complexity of installing a new vent system, how it will modify your home, and how it may increase the price of the installation.
  1. What are the warranty details?
    Ask when the manufacturer’s warranty expires. Find out what components it includes and if labor costs are covered. Compare warranties. A good warranty might be the tie-breaker as you consider two similar units. 
  1. How long will the furnace last?
    Furnaces typically last 15 to 20 years, although regular maintenance, cleanings, and filter changes may extend longevity.  Ask what maintenance is involved and how much can be done without professional assistance.  

With a little planning and the right questions, you can find the perfect furnace for your home.

Start Furnace Shopping Today!

Write your questions down and keep the list on hand when you meet with potential HVAC contractors. Use our Find a Dealer link to browse Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers across the Pacific Northwest. Our directory lists heating and cooling companies in Oregon, Washington, and parts of Montana.