Quality Goodman Furnace Models
|
|
When the time came for us to choose a new gas furnace for our home the choices were almost overwhelming. There are so many different brands to choose from, each claiming to be the most efficient. After much consideration and investigation we decided to install a Goodman gas furnace in our home.
We read extensively about all the Goodman furnace models. They offer multi-position variable speed models, downflow multi-speed models, as well as multi-position dual saver models. They offer high-efficiency gas furnaces as well as standard-efficiency gas furnaces.
The difference between high and standard efficiency are the AFUE ratings. AFUE stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency. The EPA requires furnaces manufactured today to have at least a 78% AFUE. If you're replacing a fifteen year old furnace it most likely has a AFUE of about 65%. The Goodman high-efficiency furnaces have an AFUE up to 95%, which you will find in a lot of other well known brands. Goodman standard-efficiency gas furnaces offer an AFUE of 80%.
We decided since we are planning to stay in our home at least ten years to look at high-efficiency units. We looked at the Goodman GMV95, GCV9, GMH95, and the GKS9. These are super-efficient two-stage condensing gas furnaces that will save us money in the long run.
We looked at the warranty offered by Goodman on the unit we chose. They offer lifetime limited compressor warranty, lifetime limited heat exchanger warranty, 10-year parts limited warranty and 10-year unit replacement limited warranty.
We've learned some other very important things in our search for a new furnace for our home. First thing is that the installer is as important as the unit itself. Some gas furnace problems are actually caused by shotty installation. Problems caused by installation are not covered by manufacturer warranty. When installing a gas furnace make sure you have several different estimates and more importantly make sure you've gotten information about the installer. Talk with friends or family who have had gas furnace installation in their home recently. Make sure you ask for references, and then call them. Contact your local Better Business Bureau to make sure there are no complaints. You can ask if your contractor is certified by the North American Technician Excellence Association (NATE).
The best way to guarantee that you'll be happy with your choice of gas furnace is to make sure your decision is based on sound information. Read all that you can. Ask questions. It can make the difference between having an ill working unit or having a carefree heating system.
|
