At Honest HVAC Services, we help homeowners in Crest Hill, Plainfield, Romeoville, Joliet and nearby suburbs understand their furnace options so they can make informed choices without the sales gimmicks. Here's a tiered breakdown of furnace types, explained in plain English.
--- Tiered Furnace Options ---
1. 80% AFUE Single-Stage: Basic and budget-friendly. This furnace has one speed: full power. It blasts heat until your thermostat is satisfied, then shuts off. Works fine for small homes or mild winters, but not the most efficient or comfortable option.
2. 80% AFUE Two-Stage: A step up. This model can run on low heat most of the time, saving energy and creating more consistent warmth. It only kicks into high gear when needed, reducing noise and wear.
3. 80% AFUE Two-Stage with Variable-Speed Blower: This version adds a variable-speed fan motor that adjusts airflow gradually. It s quieter, uses less electricity, and distributes heat more evenly throughout the home.
4. 95% AFUE Single-Stage: High efficiency but basic function. A solid upgrade from 80%, but still only one heating level. Good if you want to save on energy bills but don t need advanced comfort.
5. 96% AFUE Two-Stage: More efficient and more comfortable. This model runs mostly on low stage to keep your home warm without big temperature swings. High stage kicks in during deep freezes.
6. 96% AFUE Two-Stage with Variable-Speed: This combo offers the best of both worlds high efficiency, two-stage heating, and a variable-speed blower. It's quiet, balanced, and great for families who want long-term savings and consistent comfort
7. 98% AFUE Fully Modulating: Top of the line. This furnace adjusts its output in tiny increments to perfectly match your heating needs. Your home stays within 1-2 degrees of your thermostat setting 24/7. Pair it with a smart thermostat for unbeatable comfort and efficiency. Great for large homes or anyone who wants the absolute best.
--- Brand Isn't Everything --- Many HVAC brands use the same internal parts and offer similar features. Don t fall for the brand-name markup. Focus on: - Efficiency (AFUE %) - Staging (Single, Two-Stage, or Modulating) - Blower type (Standard or Variable-Speed) Ask questions, compare models, and make sure you're not paying more just for a label.
Here's a breakdown of the most common air conditioner types and what you re actually paying for:
Standard Efficiency (13-15 SEER): This is the basic, no-frills air conditioner. It turns on full blast, cools your home, then shuts off. It's reliable and affordable, but not the most efficient in terms of long-term energy savings or comfort.
16 SEER AC Units: This is the sweet spot for many homeowners. It offers better efficiency than standard models and often qualifies for utility rebates. It still runs at one speed, but uses energy more effectively and can lower your monthly bills compared to older systems.
17 SEER Two-Stage Models: These ACs have two cooling speeds a lower one for mild days and a higher one for hotter days. They run longer at lower power, which keeps your home more evenly cool, removes more humidity, and reduces wear and tear on the system. Fully Modulating or Variable-Speed ACs: These are the top-tier models. They can adjust cooling output in tiny increments (like a dimmer switch) for ultimate efficiency and comfort. Your home stays within 1-2 degrees of your thermostat setting, even on the hottest days. These are great for homeowners who want consistent comfort and low energy bills but they come at a premium price.
Important Note on Brands: Don't be fooled by brand hype. Many HVAC manufacturers share components and offer similar features across models. Paying more for a big name doesn t mean you re getting more value. The key is to ask: - What SEER rating is the system? - Is it single-stage, two-stage, or variable-speed? - Does the quote include features like smart thermostat compatibility or quiet operation? Beware: Corporate HVAC chains often push brand-name units with inflated pricing, betting that you won t ask about features.
At Honest HVAC Services, we focus on **educating you first**, so you don't fall for a sales pitch. If you need AC repair or replacement in Plainfield, Naperville, Joliet or our other service areas, call us. Want a no-pressure estimate or second opinion?
Contact us today - 630 854 0372
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.