The old college try
Engineering Technician
I need help weeding through the process of deciding on a furnace. I have a 23 year old Lennox Whisperheat that I'm thinking about replacing with a high efficiency system since I can get in on some rebate and tax credits. I've had three contractors in for quotes so far and I'm getting differing opinions on what I should do. All three proposed 70,000 btu units to replace my older 100,000 btu outfit. One contractor recommended against variable speed fans because he said that generators wreck them (not that I really use my generator ever), another one recommended an Amana 95% variable, two stage unit and the other recommended a Lennox 96% two stage variable option, but cautioned that the two stage option could decrease comfort on the second floor. My 1600 sf house (with basement) is 85 years old with newer windows throughout, has a lot of attic insulation and has had cellulose blown in the walls in the past. I would by no means consider it to be sealed, but I'm sure it's better than when the furnace was originally put in. Ducts are sized appropriately, or possibly slightly oversized (so I'm told), and oh yeah, I'm in Michigan. Can you help me figure out the best solution for me to increase home comfort and energy efficiency? Thanks.