10 Things to Consider When Buying a New Furnace

Winter in Weiser, is shaping up to be especially harsh this year. Can you imagine not having your furnace to help you make it through? You go to turn it on … and instead of rushing warm air through your ducts, it rattles, groans, and then just sits in sullen silence, clearly protesting another season of overworked servitude.

If your furnace fails to turn on or shows signs it’s on its last leg (or is already halfway into retirement), now’s the perfect time to consider an upgrade.

Sure, you could try to nurse it along for one more winter, but why risk a breakdown on the coldest night of the year? A new furnace isn’t just about warmth; it’s about peace of mind, improved energy efficiency, and avoiding those “emergency blanket forts” in your living room.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—the heating pros at Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling have drawn up a list of 10 things to consider when buying a new furnace. Let’s dive in before your furnace decides it’s officially out of service.

Furnace Shopping in Idaho: 10 Things to Consider

When winter rolls around, your furnace becomes the backbone of home comfort. Nothing beats the cozy warmth it provides on a chilly day in Washington County. While your current heating system may still be running smoothly, the time will eventually come to invest in a replacement.

Whether prompted by rising energy costs, declining performance, frequent repairs, or a complete system failure, choosing a new furnace is a decision you’ll need to make wisely. With so many options available, knowing what to look for can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks down key factors to consider and offers insight into finding a trusted HVAC professional for installation and maintenance.

1. How Long Does a Furnace Last in Idaho?

A well-maintained furnace can last 15 to 20 years or more. Regular maintenance, such as annual inspections and timely filter replacements, can extend its lifespan and ensure reliable performance.

2. Should I Repair or Replace My Existing Furnace?

If your current furnace is less than ten years old and repairs are infrequent or inexpensive, then fixing it is likely the sensible choice. However, as a furnace approaches closer to the end of its lifespan, the decision to fix or repair it becomes less clear and requires more consideration.

Older units tend to require more expensive repairs due to greater wear on the parts over their lifetime. Compared to a replacement, this expense may not be worth the fix when a new furnace can offer better value and improved efficiency.

Keep in mind that newer models often offer improved efficiency and warranties, making replacement a worthwhile investment.

3. What Types of Furnaces Are Available?

Furnaces generally fall into four categories: gas, oil, electric, and propane. While the core function of each is similar, the best option often depends on your current fuel source.

Replacing your furnace with one that matches your existing system can streamline installation and avoid the cost of converting your home to be compatible with a new energy source.

Overall, each fuel type has its own benefits.

Gas furnaces are popular due to their cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Electric furnaces are better suited for milder climates. Oil furnaces are less common but suitable for areas with limited natural gas availability. Propane furnaces are a common alternative where natural gas is unavailable.

Consider your region’s resources, home compatibility, and fuel costs before deciding which furnace type is best for your replacement.

4. What Is a Furnace Efficiency Rating (AFUE)?

Furnaces are rated using the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) measurement. This rating indicates how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into heat. Modern furnaces have AFUE ratings of 80% or higher.

All furnaces have an AFUE, though it is primarily used to measure how efficient a gas- or oil-burning furnace is since electric furnaces have a 100% AFUE (meaning all of the electricity that powers the furnace is converted into heat). However, gas or oil-burning furnaces lose some efficiency when the fuel source is burned, so their AFUE ratings are typically 80%–97%.

Opting for a high-efficiency furnace can reduce energy costs and qualify you for tax credits or rebates.

5. What Size Furnace Should I Get for My Washington County Home?

Furnace size refers to its heating capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). An oversized furnace will short cycle, wasting energy and wearing out faster, while an undersized unit will struggle to heat your home adequately, leading to inefficiency.

Just because it can be ordered online doesn’t mean you should. Have a Weiser, professional HVAC technician perform a load calculation. This is a specific way to calculate what size furnace is needed, considering your home’s size, insulation, and climate to recommend the correct-sized heating unit.

6. Do I Need to Replace My Air Conditioner Too?

Replacing both systems together may be more cost-effective—even if your AC is around ten years old. However, if your AC is still running efficiently and doesn’t require frequent repairs, it may not be necessary to replace it just yet.

When your [company-name] HVAC technician is on-site, they can help you review your heating and cooling system fully and determine if a same-time replacement is better.

7. What Features Should I Consider When Buying a New Furnace?

Today’s furnaces are equipped with advanced features that enhance comfort and performance. Consider options like variable-speed blowers for consistent airflow and quieter operation or a furnace with multi-stage burners that adjust heat output to match demand.

Another feature to consider is a heating system with zoning capabilities if your Weiser, home has multiple floors or areas with different heating needs. Zoning allows customized temperature control in other parts of your house, improving comfort and reducing energy waste.

These features can improve comfort and reduce energy costs compared to traditional single-stage systems.

8. What Accessories Should I Get for My New Furnace?

A furnace that integrates with a smart thermostat offers precise temperature control and scheduling. This combination can enhance efficiency and allow remote management of your home’s heating system, which is particularly useful for frequent travelers.

Additional accessories, such as whole-home air purifiers, humidifiers, and UV lights, can improve indoor air quality and overall comfort.

9. How Much Will a New Furnace Cost?

Furnaces are a significant investment, but financing options and incentives can make them more affordable. Look for energy-efficiency rebates, tax credits, or promotions from manufacturers or utility companies. These can offset the upfront cost while promoting environmentally friendly upgrades.

The cost of installing a new furnace varies widely depending on factors such as furnace type, labor, and any necessary modifications to your home’s ductwork or venting. To get a tailored estimate, consult a trusted HVAC contractor at Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling by calling 208-414-1302.

Professional installation ensures your furnace operates safely and efficiently. It also guarantees compliance with Idaho or local building codes and safety standards. Ensure your HVAC contractor is experienced and knowledgeable about your specific furnace type.

10. What are the Maintenance Requirements of My New Furnace?

Different furnace types require varying levels of maintenance. Gas furnaces need regular inspections of burners and heat exchangers, while electric furnaces require simpler upkeep.

Routine maintenance is essential to keeping your furnace running efficiently. Replace air filters regularly—monthly for standard filters or quarterly for thicker media filters. Scheduling an annual inspection and tune-up with a professional HVAC technician can help identify potential issues early and ensure peak performance.

Upgrade Your Furnace With the Trusted Heating Company in Weiser

Selecting the right furnace requires balancing efficiency, cost, and compatibility with your home’s needs. Consulting with a trusted HVAC professional at Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling ensures you make an informed choice tailored to your circumstances.

Our team offers expert guidance in Weiser, and throughout Washington County to help you find the perfect heating solution. Partnering with our qualified HVAC contractors ensures your furnace is installed correctly and maintained for years of dependable comfort.

Call us today at 208-414-1302 or request service online.