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Furnaces



As a homeowner, one of the hardest decisions you'll have to make about your Furnace is when it's time for a new heating system.


If you're researching online or have heard talk about variable speed heating, single-stage, two-stage, and modulating gas valves, and AFUE ratings, let us help you by explaining some of those furnace systems and related terms.

Furnace Efficiency Rating AFUE

AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) measures the efficiency of modern furnaces by comparing the furnace's annual heat output to its total fossil fuel consumption. A furnace with a 99 AFUE rating returns 99 cents of heat per dollar spent, while 1 cent is lost. The AFUE rating doesn't include heat loss through ducts. An 80 AFUE furnace is a cost-effective choice and a 99% furnace is the most energy efficient.

Single Stage Furnaces

The single-stage furnace is the most basic and affordable option among all types of furnaces. It is also the simplest in terms of technology. However, this simplicity comes at a cost of energy efficiency, resulting in higher monthly utility bills. This is because a single-stage furnace uses the same flame size to produce heat, regardless of the temperature inside or outside.

Two Stage Furnace

A two-stage furnace has two heat output levels, one for mild and one for cold weather. It saves energy and reduces noise by running at a lower speed during mild weather, and provides more heat during cold days by running at full capacity. This leads to energy savings and better comfort. Though it has a higher initial cost, it saves on monthly heating bills.

Variable Speed Furnace

A variable-speed furnace is a type of heating system that uses a variable-speed blower motor to adjust the airflow through the furnace. This allows the furnace to adjust the fan speed based on heating demand, resulting in better temperature control, improved indoor air quality, and consistent temperature and reduces the number of times the furnace has to cycle on and off. This makes it more energy efficient and cost-effective than traditional, fixed-speed furnaces.

Variable Capacity Furnaces also called Modulating Gas Furnaces

A variable capacity furnace, also known as a modulating gas furnace, is an advanced type of heating system that adjusts its output between 35% and 100% depending on the heating demand. This allows it to use only the amount of fuel necessary to maintain the desired temperature. These furnaces are among the most energy-efficient on the market, with an efficiency rating of 99%.

Dual Fuel HVAC

Dual fuel HVAC refers to a heating and cooling system that utilizes both an electric heat pump and a gas, propane, or oil furnace. The system alternates between the two fuel sources to provide optimal heating and cooling.
When the outdoor temperature is above 10°F, a heat pump can effectively extract heat from the outside air, making it more cost-effective than using the furnace. The furnace is only activated during the coldest months of the year.
During summer, the heat pump functions as an air conditioner. It works together with the furnace's air handler to remove hot air from inside the house and release it outside, while the furnace's blower circulates cooler air inside.
Dual fuel systems are commonly used by rural homeowners without access to natural gas and must rely on propane or oil for heating. Additionally, it can be beneficial for those who have access to natural gas but also have a source of inexpensive electricity, such as solar panels.

Different Home Sizes and Preferences Require Customized Heating Solutions

True Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning offer personalized home heating solutions that take into account factors such as home size, design, climate, insulation, and occupants' behavior to find the most affordable and energy-efficient option. They only recommend leading manufacturers and models that meet their strict criteria and provide detailed explanations, recommendations, and load calculations to ensure equipment is correctly sized for the home. Their goal is to provide quality customer service and build lasting relationships with customers.

Lennox Furnaces

Lennox SLP99V Variable-Capacity Gas Furnace

  • Up to 99% AFUE
  • Energy Star Rated
  • Stages of Heating: Modulating
  • SilentComfort Technology and Fully Insulated Cabinet
  • Blower Motor: Variable Speed
  • Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
  • Ultra-Low Continuous Fan
  • Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty on Heat Exchanger. 10-Year Limited Warranty on covered components.
  • Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Tax Credit Eligible

EL296V High-Efficiency, Two-Stage Gas Furnace

  • Energy Star Rated
  • Stages of Heating: Two Stages
  • SilentComfort Technology and Sound Absorbing Insulation
  • Blower Motor: Variable Speed
  • Enhanced Humidity Control
  • Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
  • Ultra-Low Continuous Fan
  • Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
  • 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for valuable 10-Year Limited Extended Warranty coverage with product registration.
  • Heat Exchanger Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Tax Credit Eligible
  • Up to 96% AFUE

EL280E High-Efficiency, Two-Stage Gas Furnace

  • Up to 80% AFUE
  • Stages of Heating: Two Stages
  • Quiet Operation Fully Insulated Cabinet
  • Blower Motor: Power Saver
  • Dual-Fuel Capable
  • Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
  • Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
  • 20-Year Limited Warranty on Heat Exchanger. 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for valuable 10-Year Limited Extended Warranty coverage with product registration.
  • Heat Exchanger Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Tax Credit Eligible

Lennox ML180V Gas Furnace

  • Up to 80% AFUE
  • Stages of Heating: Single Stage
  • Steel Cabinet
  • Variable Speed Motor
  • Ultra-Low Continuous Fan
  • Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
  • Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
  • 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for valuable 10-Year Limited Extended Warranty coverage with product registration.
  • Heat Exchanger Warranty 20-Year Limited Warranty
  • Tax Credit Eligible

Lennox Furnaces are known for its high efficiency, quiet operation, and dependability. They are specifically designed to provide perfect warmth and energy savings.