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.

Variable Capacity Furnaces: Leading the Way in Energy Savings and Comfort

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%.

Two-Stage Furnaces: Smart Heating for Changing Weather

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.

Understanding Single-Stage Gas Furnaces: Efficiency Comparison

Single-stage gas furnaces are a straightforward, budget-friendly option for those prioritizing simplicity and affordability. However, unlike more energy-efficient gas furnace systems such as two-stage or variable-speed gas furnaces, the single-stage gas furnace lacks energy-saving features. Operating at a constant heat output regardless of temperature, single-stage gas furnaces will lead to higher monthly heating bills compared to more energy-efficient gas furnace systems.

Customized Heating Solutions

911 Mechanical Heating and Cooling offers customized 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 products 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.

The amended Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which began in 2023 and extends through 2032, increases the tax credits as high as $600 for qualified air conditioners or gas furnaces, and boilers and up to $2000 for qualified heat pumps.

Our Most Popular Lennox Furnaces

Dave Lennox Signature Collection - SLP99V High Efficiency, 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
Dave Lennox Signature® Collection models come with a 10-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. Furnace heat exchangers offer either 20-year or Lifetime Limited Warranties.
Tax Credit Eligible

Lennox Elite Series - EL297V High-Efficiency, Variable Speed, Two-Stage, Gas Furnace

Up to 97% AFUE
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
A 10-Year Extended Limited Warranty is available with product registration.
Heat Exchanger Limited Lifetime Warranty
Tax Credit Eligible

Lennox Merit Series - ML296V High-Efficiency, Variable Speed, Two-Stage Gas Furnace

Up to 96% AFUE
Energy Star Rated
Stages of Heating: Two Stages
Steel Cabinet
Blower Motor: Variable Speed
Enhanced Humidity Control
Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
Ultra-Low Continuous Fan
Dual Fuel Capable
Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
A 10-Year Extended Limited Warranty is available with product registration.
Heat Exchanger: 20-Year Limited Warranty

Lennox ML180E Mid-Efficiency 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
A 10-Year Extended Limited Warranty is available with product registration.
Heat Exchanger Warranty 20-Year Limited Warranty

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Our Most Popular Carrier Furnaces

Carrier Infinity® 98 Gas Furnace 59 MN7

Up to 98.5% AFUE
Energy Star Rated
Fully Insulated Cabinet
Stages of Heating: Modulating
Variable Speed Motor
Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
10-year parts limited warranty upon timely registration and lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty upon timely registration.
Tax Credit Eligible

Carrier Performance™ 96 Gas Furnace 59TP6

Up to 96.5% AFUE
Energy Star Rated
Fully Insulated Cabinet
Stages of Heating: Two Stage
Variable Speed Motor
Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
10-year parts limited warranty upon timely registration and lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty upon timely registration.

When it comes to getting the best heating and cooling equipment or service, the only name you need to know is 911 Mechanical.