Heating bills across the country are the highest they have ever been, without any relief in sight. Even if your older furnace runs, from an economic standpoint it would be wise to replace it. With the proper commercial furnace selection, your central air-conditioning bills can be lower too.
A New Furnace Can Reduce Heating Costs
Compared with a 17-year-old furnace, a new commercial furnace can save the typical business thousands of dollars per year. Based on the efficiency of your old furnace, probably 60% at best, a new furnace can cut your utility bills by 40%. You can do the arithmetic to determine your annual savings.
Not only will you have lower utility bills, but the comfort and quiet operation of a new system will surprise you. The contractor should install a computerized thermostat with it. This thermostat, coupled with the electronic controls in the new furnace, will maintain even room temperatures.
Condensing vs. Non-condensing Models
You can choose from two basic designs of commercial furnaces: condensing and non-condensing. The condensing models (this refers to the type of heat exchanger used) are the most efficient and the best choice for most businesses. The efficiencies of condensing models range from about 90% to over 95%.
These models are very efficient, and so little heat is lost in the flue gasses that a chimney is not needed. The gasses are exhausted by a 2-inch-diameter plastic pipe through an outdoor wall. With no need for a new chimney liner, a condensing furnace is often cheaper to install.
Some models also offer sealed combustion for better efficiency. The combustion air is drawn in from outdoors through another plastic pipe instead of being drawn from inside your house. Being sealed, there are fewer indoor drafts, less noise and less chance of hazardous back drafting.
Two-stage Heating Models
For ultimate comfort and efficiency, but at a higher initial cost, is a two-stage heat output furnace with a variable-speed blower. This type of blower is needed if you want the best central air-conditioning.
In all but the coldest weather, the gas burners operate at a low heat level. This allows the furnace to run more continuously with fewer uncomfortable on/off cycles. The blower also runs slower and quieter at this low level. During very cold weather, it automatically switches to high heat.
If your budget allows, also install a quality air cleaner. Since a two-stage unit runs more, the air cleaner is more effective for allergy sufferers.
Reducing Heating Costs For Commercial Buildings
Energy expenses account for approximately 20% of operating costs in a typical commercial building. Considering that HVAC/R units are often the biggest consumers of energy, keeping your unit running efficiently should be a top priority. If your current commercial furnace is outdated or in need of frequent repairs, investing in a new commercial furnace could save your business money in the long run.
Whether you’re designing a new system, looking to protect your existing HVAC/R equipment, or need emergency repairs TCMS is here to help! Contact us today to get a free quote.
