More homeowners switching to energy-efficient furnaces

As we go into winter with prices of natural gas rising yet again, more homeowners are giving some thought to energy-efficient furnaces.

Any furnace you buy today is at least 80 percent efficient, and ones that can earn you a $500 federal income tax credit are at least 95 percent efficient. That means they convert that much gas to heat.

The high-efficiency furnaces are condensing furnaces. Their exhaust is cool enough to exit homes through plastic pipes.

These furnaces cannot use your traditional chimney because the condensation would be drip messily and damage the furnace.

Here are some frequently asked questions.

Q. Should we ditch the old furnace and buy a new one to save money?

A. This is a hard decision. Jim Nanni, manager for appliances and home improvement for Consumer Reports, says no if the old one is inspected every year and is still working well. James Dulley, whose column runs in the Daily Herald, says he would consider it with a furnace that is 15 to 20 years old. You need to calculate the price, what the savings would be in gas costs and how long it would take for the payback.

Q. If there's no doubt it's time replace the furnace, should we buy an energy-efficient, condensing furnace?

A. That's a rather easy calculation. You can compare how much more you will pay for the energy-efficient furnace than a regular, lower-priced one, figure in the tax rebate and see how long it would take you to recoup the extra costs based on predicted gas savings.

Q. If I'm buying an energy-efficient furnace, does it matter what brand I buy?

A. Not very much if you buy one of the well-known national brands.

Q. Does it matter who does the installation?

A. You bet.

Q. How do I go about choosing a contractor?

A. Talk to your friends, get their recommendations of contractors. Get at least three bids. Check references. If the contractor keeps up with classes, that shows a dedication to the industry. Licensing and insurance are important.