If you’re shopping for a new heating system, you have a lot to think about. There are many different options available today, and choosing the correct system can be a daunting prospect. Use this heating system buyer’s guide to help determine the best equipment for your home:

When shopping for a new system, always look for the Energy Star label. This label signifies that the system has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency as an energy-efficient product. Not only can you save money through energy savings by choosing an Energy Star system, but you may also be eligible for a federal tax credit.

• Compare the efficiency of different models by looking at their AFUE ratings. Annual fuel utilization efficiency ratings show how much fuel a system converts into heat. Older furnaces and boilers typically have an AFUE rating of 70 percent or less, meaning they waste 30 percent of the fuel that powers them. Some newer systems have an AFUE rating of 97 percent. The higher the AFUE, the more money you’ll save on energy costs.
• Keep in mind that the cost to purchase and install a system will represent only about 5 percent of its lifetime costs. The vast majority of what you’ll pay will be for monthly energy bills, maintenance and repairs. A high-efficiency system may cost more to buy, but it will pay off in the long run.
• Do some research and see how much money you could save annually by increasing the efficiency of your heating system.

For more help selecting the right heating system for your home, contact the experts at Smoky Mountain Heating & Air. We’d be glad to help you with all of your home comfort needs.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Smoky Mountain Heating & Air services Asheville, North Carolina and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!          

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