When you own a home, one of the most challenging choices you'll face regarding your furnace is determining when it's necessary to replace your heating system.

If you're conducting online research or have come across discussions on variable speed heating, single-stage, two-stage, and modulating gas valves, as well as AFUE ratings, allow us to assist you by providing explanations for these furnace systems and relevant terminology.

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 also called Modulating Gas Furnaces

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 Furnace

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.

Single Stage Furnaces

The single-stage furnace is the most basic and affordable option among all types of furnaces. It is also the simplest in terms of technology. However, this simplicity comes at a cost of energy efficiency, resulting in higher monthly utility bills. This is because a single-stage furnace uses the same flame size to produce heat, regardless of the temperature inside or outside.

Customized Heating Solutions

At Eric Dale Heating and Air Conditioning, we specialize in tailor-made home heating solutions that consider various factors such as home size, design, climate, insulation, and occupants' behavior. Our aim is to identify the most cost-effective and energy-efficient option for your specific needs. We have stringent criteria for recommending products and provide comprehensive explanations, recommendations, and load calculations to ensure the equipment is appropriately sized for your home. Our ultimate objective is to deliver exceptional customer service and establish enduring relationships with our valued customers.

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

Our Most Popular Lennox Furnaces

Lennox 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
• Limited Lifetime Warranty on Heat Exchanger. 10-Year Limited Warranty on covered components.
• Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
• Tax Credit Eligible

Lennox EL297V High-Efficiency, 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
• Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
• Ultra-Low Continuous Fan
• Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
• 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for valuable 10-Year Limited Extended Warranty coverage with product registration.
• Heat Exchanger Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
• Tax Credit Eligible

Lennox 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
• Air Filter and Humidifier Compatible
• Ultra-Low Continuous Fan
• Dual Fuel Capable
• Ignition SureLight Silicon Nitride Ignitor
• 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for valuable 10-Year Limited Extended Warranty coverage with product registration.
• Heat Exchanger: 20-Year Limited Warranty

Lennox ML180V 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
• 5-Year Limited Warranty on covered components. This product may be eligible for valuable 10-Year Limited Extended Warranty coverage with product registration.
• Heat Exchanger Warranty 20-Year Limited Warranty

Quality Equipment, Knowledgeable Design, Superior Workmanship, and Service After The Sale Makes Our Comfort Systems Extraordinary!

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