Introduction
Hey, Jake Lawson here. If you’re shopping for a new furnace, it can get confusing fast — so many models, fuel types, and efficiency numbers thrown at you. This guide breaks it all down so you can make a smart, confident choice that keeps your home warm without wasting money.
We’ll cover furnace types, sizing, efficiency, installation tips, and more. Plus, I’ll point you to the full furnace lineup we carry at The Furnace Outlet so you can shop the best options.
1. Types of Furnaces: Fuel and Design Options
First up: figuring out which fuel type and furnace style fits your home and budget best.
Gas Furnaces
The most popular choice — natural gas furnaces provide efficient, cost-effective heat for many homes. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, gas furnaces generally have an AFUE efficiency rating between 80% and 98%. Modern units often include variable-speed blowers for improved comfort and savings.
Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces convert electricity directly into heat. While nearly 100% efficient in turning energy into warmth, electricity can be pricier than gas in many regions. As the ENERGY STAR furnace guide points out, electric furnaces are best suited for homes without gas service or in milder climates.
Oil and Propane Furnaces
Oil furnaces, common in rural or older homes, rely on delivered heating oil and require tank storage. Propane furnaces use portable propane tanks and are ideal where natural gas isn’t available. Both tend to have higher operating costs and maintenance compared to natural gas, but remain important options for certain areas.
Furnace Stages and Modulation
-
Single-stage furnaces run full blast or not at all — simple but less efficient
-
Two-stage furnaces can run at low or high settings, improving comfort and efficiency
-
Modulating furnaces continuously adjust heat output, maximizing comfort and reducing energy waste
2. Furnace Sizing: Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Choosing the right furnace size is crucial. An oversized furnace will short-cycle, wasting fuel and wearing out parts quickly. Too small, and your home won’t stay warm.
Sizing depends on factors like your home’s square footage, insulation, and climate. HVAC pros use a Manual J load calculation — recognized by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) — to determine the precise heating needs.
BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure furnace heat output. Common sizes range from 40,000 to 120,000 BTUs for residential furnaces.
3. Efficiency Ratings: Understanding AFUE and ENERGY STAR
The key efficiency measure for furnaces is the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, which shows how much fuel converts to heat versus wasted. A 90% AFUE means 90% of fuel energy heats your home; the rest escapes.
Most new furnaces meet a minimum of 80% AFUE, but high-efficiency models hit 90%–98%. Look for the ENERGY STAR certification, which guarantees energy savings and quality.
4. What You Get at The Furnace Outlet
We offer a full range of furnaces to fit every home and budget, from trusted brands with proven reliability to the latest high-efficiency models.
-
Gas, electric, oil, and propane furnaces
-
High-efficiency AFUE options and ENERGY STAR certified units
-
Single-stage, two-stage, and modulating furnaces
-
Expert advice and support to help you choose right
Browse our complete furnace collection here: The Furnace Outlet Furnaces Collection
5. Installation: Why It Matters More Than You Think
A furnace’s efficiency and lifespan depend heavily on quality installation. Improper venting, ductwork, or sizing leads to wasted energy and frequent repairs.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends choosing licensed installers who follow local codes and use proper safety practices.
6. When to Upgrade Your Furnace
Consider upgrading if:
-
Your energy bills are rising for no clear reason
-
Your furnace is more than 15 years old
-
You notice uneven heating or cold spots
-
You want to reduce your carbon footprint
-
Repairs are becoming frequent and costly
7. Financing and Rebates
Many new high-efficiency furnaces qualify for rebates or tax incentives. Utility companies often offer rebates on ENERGY STAR models — so check locally and ask us about financing options.
8. What About Air Conditioners and Refrigerants Like R-32?
If you’re pairing your furnace with an AC, consider systems using the newer R-32 refrigerant, which is more efficient and environmentally friendly than older types. I cover this in detail in our related guide: “Why R-32 Refrigerant Matters for Your Next Furnace-Compatible AC System.”
Conclusion
Buying a furnace is a major decision, but with the right info, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on fuel type, proper sizing, efficiency ratings, and professional installation — and your home will stay cozy and efficient for years.
Check out our complete furnace selection here: https://thefurnaceoutlet.com/collections/furnaces-all and feel free to reach out for expert advice.
