Before the availability of gas lines, Oil Furnaces were very popular. They are increasingly replacing gas furnaces due to their efficiency and lifespan. Gas furnaces are also riskier to install due to the possibility of a gas leak or gas explosion. Another convenience of oil furnaces is if you get in a pinch with heating oil, you can always add some to the tank yourself instead of waiting on delivery.
Older oil furnaces only had a 60-70% energy efficient rating. The new energy-efficient oil furnaces are 86% efficient, which dramatically increases your energy savings. Oil furnaces now come with state-of-the-art burner system which keeps the fuel burning evenly and more consistently than before. You should choose an oil furnace that has a stainless steel heat exchanger for longer life of the furnace. You can base your energy ratings off of a dollar. If your furnace is 86% energy efficient, 86 cents of every dollar you spend is being spent on heat instead of going up the chimney.
Most models can be installed with existing chimneys, and you can choose from an up flow or down flow or horizontal airflow model. Most oil furnaces are pre-wired for air conditioning, air cleaner or humidifier installation. The sturdy steel casing and insulation helps to keep your furnace at its quietest level possible during operation. The appropriate furnace size is also something you need to consider when purchasing a furnace. If you install a furnace that is too small, the heat will not reach rooms that are farthest away from the furnace. If you buy too large of a furnace, the ductwork may not be able to evacuate the heat quickly enough and overheat your furnace.
Purchasing a furnace can be a complicated task if you don’t know what you need. It is much easier to contact a professional heating and air conditioning company to measure the size of your home and give you various options that fit into your budget. They will also have financing available if you qualify. When your furnace is installed by a professional, there is warranty attached to the furnace and the workmanship so, if a problem should arise, service would be free.
