Types of Furnaces: How to Choose a Furnace For Your Home

types of furnacesWhen it comes to keeping our homes warm during the winter months, the type of furnace you pick is important - it's a significant investment in your household's overall efficiency and energy consumption!

As the best furnace installers in Colorado, we’ve got you covered. So, whether you're facing a furnace replacement or you’re just curious about upgrading your home's heating system with our furnace installation services, join us as we explore the pros and cons of different types of furnaces to help choose what’s right for you.

Traditional Gas Furnaces

If you’ve been trying to learn more about how to choose a furnace, you’ve probably come across gas furnaces by now. Traditional gas furnaces have been very popular in homes across the world, and for good reason. One of their main advantages is their efficiency in providing consistent and reliable warmth. Gas furnaces are known for their durability, often requiring low maintenance. Moreover, they quickly heat your home, making them an excellent choice for those who live in colder climates.

On the flip side, gas furnaces can be less energy-efficient compared to newer models, potentially leading to higher utility bills. They also may not be the most eco-friendly option, as they burn natural gas to operate.

Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces are a popular alternative to traditional gas furnaces. The big advantages of electric furnaces would be their energy efficiency and long lifespan. They are known for their clean operation, producing almost no emissions, making them the most eco-friendly choice among our furnace installation services. Of the different types of furnaces, electric ones tend to be much safer, as they do not involve the use of combustible fuels.

However, electric furnaces are often considered less cost-effective in regions with high electricity prices, as they can lead to higher energy bills compared to gas furnaces. Additionally, electric furnaces may take longer to heat a home.

Oil Furnaces

Oil furnaces have been a reliable source of heating for many years, and they continue to serve as a viable option for those in certain regions and situations. One of the main advantages of oil furnaces is their ability to produce a high level of heat, making them an excellent choice for areas with extremely cold winters. Oil furnaces are also independent of the electrical grid, which can be advantageous during power outages.

However, oil furnaces require regular fuel deliveries, which can be a hassle and subject to fluctuations in oil prices. They also produce emissions and require a chimney/venting system, so this may be something furnace installers ask you about if you’re interested in an oil furnace. Additionally, oil furnaces may have lower energy efficiency compared to newer gas and electric models, which can lead to higher operating costs.

Propane Furnaces

Propane furnaces are a versatile and efficient heating option that's particularly well-suited for homes in rural areas and regions where natural gas isn't readily available. One of the big advantages of propane furnaces is their portability, as propane is stored in tanks on your property, eliminating the need for a connection to a natural gas line. This makes them a reliable choice for homes in remote locations. Additionally, propane is a clean-burning fuel, producing fewer emissions compared to some other heating options.

However - the cost of propane fuel can fluctuate, and these furnaces require regular refilling of propane tanks, which may be an inconvenience for some homeowners. Additionally, these types of furnaces, like oil furnaces, require proper venting systems to expel combustion byproducts safely.

The Best Furnace Installers in Greeley, Colorado

We know that it can be tricky when you’re figuring out how to choose a furnace for your home. Whether you opt for gas, electric, oil, or propane, each option comes with a unique set of pros and cons. It's crucial to assess your local climate, budget, and environmental concerns, as well as your home's infrastructure and energy efficiency goals when making a decision.

If you’re looking for furnace installation services, make sure to reach out to us at McCormick Heating, Cooling & Electrical today to schedule an appointment or get a free estimate.