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Gas Furnaces
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Furnaces Features (continued)
Gas Furnace Size.
In the world of furnaces, size matters.Variable-Speed Blowers and Variable Heat Output.
Old furnaces typically blow air at only one temperature and one speed. But new, more efficient furnaces offer variable-speed blowers and multi-stage burners. The Trane XL80 Series, for example, offers two-stage heat output, while the Carrier Infinity Series goes a step further, offering more speeds and heat levels. Payne gas furnaces and the Lennox Merit Series (starting at about $2,000) also offer variable speed blowers, although the exact specs weren't found. In milder weather, cheap gas furnaces with variable speed and heat output blow out less heat at a slower speed. But when the temperature drops, the furnaces kick up the speed and deliver more heat. These features prevent the furnace from always cycling completely on and off, allowing for more even heating and reducing wear and tear on the unit. A cheap gas furnace that's not always running at full force is quieter and more energy efficient.Furnace Air Filtration.
If you suffer from dust allergies, asthma, or other lung problems, you'll want to pay close attention to the type of air filtration that's built into a discount furnace. Some premium furnaces offer electrostatic filters, while others have high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which reduce the amount of dust that is blown through the heating system. If your lungs aren't sensitive, however, experts at Consumer Reports argue that this expensive feature is unnecessary. Instead, just change out your furnace's filter monthly and try to reduce allergens (such as pet dander and dust) in your home. If you're not that compulsive, make sure to change the filter at least once a year.Furnace Warranty.
Most cheap gas furnaces come with a warranty for parts (typically five to 10 years) and a separate warranty for the heat exchanger (10-plus years). Some manufacturer warranties are more generous than others. For instance, Lennox offers a five-year warranty on parts, as does Trane, while Carrier and Payne cover parts for 10 years. Carrier offers a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger; Payne and Trane offer 20-year warranties. Be sure to register your new gas furnace with the company to take full advantage of any furnace warranties. Your installer should also guarantee the workmanship with a service warranty, which could range from six months to a couple of years. Unlike the manufacturer's warranty, the contractor's warranty is negotiable.
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Best Cheap Furnaces
Trane XL80 Furnace
Professional heating contractors rave about the value of the two-stage furnaces in this series. Having two levels of heat output increases efficiency and reduces wear on the unit. The 80% AFUE rating is adequate for most homes, except those in extremely cold environs. Read more »Furnace Reviews Deals
| Find a Trane Dealer |
Carrier Infinity Furnace
With a 10-year warranty on parts and 20 years on the heat exchanger, this series of gas furnaces is a safe buy. The Infinity 80 is the cheapest model, offering 80% AFUE, while the Infinity 96 boasts a 96% AFUE. Both have a variable speed blower, which further increases their efficiency. Read more »Furnace Reviews Deals
| Find a Carrier Dealer |
Good Budget Gas Furnaces
Lennox Merit Furnace
The reliable Lennox Merit Series starts at 80% AFUE and comes with a standard five-year warranty on the covered components and a 20-year warranty on the heat exchanger. Lennox is a brand that receives a lot of hype, but most customers say the attention is deserved because the units are efficient and reliable. Read more »Furnace Reviews Deals
| Find a Lennox Dealer |
Payne Furnace
Experts are impressed with the quality and price of Payne furnaces, saying they're reliable, trouble-free, and long-lasting. The brand offers energy-efficient 80% AFUE units with variable-speed blowers. The furnaces are backed by an above-average warranty of 10 years on parts and 20 years on the heat exchanger. Read more »Furnace Reviews Deals
| Find a Payne Dealer |
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Don't Bother Budget Gas Furnace
Goodman Furnace
As an overall brand, Goodman furnaces have been criticized by consumers and experts for needing repairs more often than other brands. However, some sources say the company has responded to the negative feedback and revamped all its Goodman furnace lines. If you do choose this brand, ask the installer when it was manufactured (stay away from models built before 2005) and inquire about extended warranties. Read more »
Products Mentioned in This Review
Rheem Criterion FurnaceGoodman Furnace
Lennox Merit Furnace
Payne Furnace
Trane XL80 Furnace
Carrier Infinity Furnace
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