furnace facts

Bigger is not better! Too large a heating system is inefficient and costs more to operate.

Install a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) furnace filter with a value between 6 and 10 to filter out airborne particulate matter.

A programmable thermostat with an “on” switch for the furnace fan will help circulate air and improve indoor air quality.

Contact a certified asbestos abatement contractor to remove asbestos insulation from older furnaces.

Control outdoor air ventilation to create a balanced or slightly positive indoor pressure.

Your furnace should pass a combustion safety/back-draft test performed by a qualified technician to avoid dangerous back-drafting of combustion gases in flue pipes.

Locate furnaces in central insulated spaces, such as a combustion closet isolated from conditioned spaces. A central location reduces duct runs and improves efficiency.

—Kim Master

Highly efficient forced-air furnaces typically feature two heat exchangers, sealed combustion, a variable-speed blower motor, burner ignition, a high-efficiency air filter, and a two-stage gas valve. Be sure to purchase programmable thermostats to operate the furnace. Photo Courtesy Save Home Heat Co., Inc.

> See realted article "Green Builder's Corner"

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