Both governmental and commercial organizations offer rebates to encourage property owners to install energy-efficient heating systems. Energy-efficient systems benefit everyone since they are good for the environment. The rebates come in the form of:

• Tax credits
• Cash
• Credit on utility accounts
• Low-interest loans
• Freebies, such as free thermostats

You may also qualify for rebates when you switch from one energy source to another. The incentives are constantly evolving, so you need to do your homework to discover the ones you qualify for.

If your furnace is relatively old, it's probably missing some of the heating industry's latest technologies. Research what is available and incorporate the best options in your new installation. Some of the things to consider include:

• Variable speed blowers that deliver just the right level of heating to optimize energy efficiency and comfort
• Electronic air cleaners that trap more pollutants than conventional filters
• Smart thermostats that you can program and control remotely
• Occupancy sensors that you can configure to switch on the furnace when you get home

Talk to your heating technician for further information on heating technologies available today.

If you have lived in the same house for years, the chances are high that you have renovated or remodeled the property over the years. If that is the case, then the renovations have probably affected your existing furnace operations and efficiency. For example:

• An additional room increases the square footage that your furnace has to heat
• Improved insulation may reduce your heating needs
• Changes in room configurations or usage might affect air circulation

In such cases, don't insist on a like-for-like furnace replacement. Expect the heating contractor to carry out furnace sizing and design that incorporates the changes you have made to the building.

Furnace replacement allows you to replace or upgrade other parts of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Other parts of the HVAC you can upgrade include the air conditioner (AC) and thermostat.

For example, if your AC is old, you should replace it at the same time as the furnace to improve the HVAC system's overall efficiency. Many homeowners find bundling more cost-effective than repeated installation of individual components.

A furnace's brand plays a role in its reliability but is not the main factor. Sizing, design, and installation play a bigger role. The major furnace manufacturers have invested heavily in research and design. Their products perform relatively the same. Therefore, consider the brand, but don't give it more weight than the installer's skill and experience.

As mentioned above, correct installing plays a significant role in furnace performance. Take your time to choose a good installer. A good installer will:

• Size the furnace correctly
• Advise you on maintenance issues
• Give you a good warranty

Don't forget to do your due diligence and confirm the contractor's licensing. Online reviews can also help you confirm your chosen contractor's quality.

Weather Control Air Conditioning, Inc., has been active in the HVAC industry for over two decades. We provide a wide range of services aimed at keeping your house comfortable and healthy all year round. Contact us for a quote if you need a new furnace. We will send a technician to evaluate your house and determine the best heating system for you.