What are the Different Furnace Types?

January 16, 2023

Furnace types in Show Low, AZ

Having a residential heating system to keep your family and your home warm throughout the cold winter season is a must. The most popular type of heating system used throughout the country is currently the furnace. There are a few different types that you should be aware of when determining which one is best for your house.

It Depends on the Fuel Type

All furnaces are categorized based on the type of fuel they utilize to create heat for your home. There are four main types of fuel that furnaces can operate on. These include natural gas, oil, propane, and electricity. Depending on which fuel you choose, you’ll need to purchase a furnace that utilizes that particular fuel type.

Efficiency and Fuel Price

Determining the right furnace for your home all starts with knowing which fuels are readily available in your area. For example, if you don’t have natural gas, then it doesn’t make much sense to invest in a natural gas furnace. Conversely, if you have both heating oil and natural gas readily available in your area, then you’ll want to consider both their individual fuel price and the upfront cost of the furnace.

When it comes to furnace efficiency, natural gas is at the top. Newer gas furnaces can have an efficiency rating of up to 98% on average. There’s a reason that natural gas furnaces are utilized to heat nearly half of the homes throughout America. Just behind natural gas is the oil-burning furnace. Widely popular in the northeastern parts of the country, modern oil furnaces can offer an efficiency of between 80% and 90%.

Furnace Price

Electric furnaces are going to be the cheapest to purchase. However, they’re also the most expensive to run since electricity costs more than natural gas, oil, or propane. Propane furnaces are cheaper than electric ones but more expensive than natural gas or oil furnaces. Lastly, natural gas furnaces are going to be slightly more expensive than oil furnaces to install.

Quality Furnace Services

Rim Country Mechanical, Inc. provides quality furnace services for residents of Show Low, AZ and the surrounding communities. We can assist with all of your heating, cooling, indoor air quality, commercial, ductless mini-split, and refrigeration needs. Call us today to schedule your next appointment with one of our highly skilled HVAC professionals.