Bob and Tim were doing a routine seasonal service call on a high-efficiency furnace. Tim asked, “Why were the older furnaces so inefficient compared to the more modern furnaces?”
There is no question there are some chilly months ahead, and homeowners will expect their expensive condensing furnaces to operate without fail, even on the coldest days.
Carrier was recently allocated a $5.1 million Qualifying Advanced Energy Project tax credit (Project Credit) to expand production at its Indianapolis facility to meet increasing demand for its high-efficiency gas furnace line.
Well-trained comfort consultants should not only point out all the benefits that come with a properly installed, highly efficient furnace, but they should take the opportunity to build trust with the homeowners so they feel comfortable investing in a more expensive system.
Homeowners choosing to purchase these highly efficient furnaces will reap the benefits of lower energy bills, while contractors will appreciate the many features that make them easier to install and service.
The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) is considering changes to its specification on nonweatherized gas furnaces, and has requested comments from stakeholders, including the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Comments are due by July 22.