The fact that our winters in the Pacific Northwest are not as severe as in other parts of the country is no excuse for overlooking the importance of your home heating system. It is going to get uncomfortably cold before long: quite possibly sooner than you’d expect, or even like. If you are planning on investing in a new heating system this year, now is the time to act. Many homeowners in our area rely upon the furnace in order to heat their homes effectively and efficiently. The furnace certainly has a lot to recommend it. However, it is vital that you have the right furnace in Everett, WA: one which suits your needs, as well as your personal preferences. Here are a few tips from G & S Heating Cooling & Electric to help you choose the right furnace for your home.
Consider Your Fuel Options
There are multiple ways in which you may generate heat with a furnace. Combustion based systems are quite popular, with natural gas being a favorite among homeowners. Natural gas is relatively affordable, and quite clean-burning for a fossil fuel. It is piped directly to the home, but does require some proximity to a gas main. If you don’t live near one, or lack the require hookups, propane is another option to consider. This must be stored in a tank on site, though. Electrical resistance heating is another option, though electric furnaces may be a bit more expensive to operate, as electricity generally costs more than gas.
Keep Size in Mind
You need more than an idea of your home’s square footage in order to ensure that your furnace is of the right size for your home. That is why you should leave the sizing of your furnace to a trained professional. By taking into account the orientation of your home, windows, and other factors, our staff will guarantee that your furnace is of the right size for your heating needs.
You Must Pay for Efficiency
Investing in a cheap furnace to save money upfront may not be the wisest choice, as such systems will likely have a lower annual fuel utilization efficiency rating (AFUE). The more efficient the furnace, the more it is likely to cost to purchase. However, this initial investment can be offset over time, as you enjoy energy savings thanks to an efficient heating performance.
