# Furnace Replacement: Three Ways To Simplify Your Decision > For your furnace replacement project, check efficiency ratings, size the new furnace correctly and choose an expert contractor to install it. ![furnace replacement, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/energy-efficiency.jpg)If your furnace is nearing retirement age, who could blame you for breaking out in a mild sweat? A furnace replacement project requires careful consideration and time—not to mention a significant monetary investment. ![furnace replacement, Boston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/energy-efficiency.jpg) To help simplify your search and buying decision, make sure that you understand the importance of efficiency ratings, size the new furnace correctly and choose an expert contractor to install it. If they are maintained well, most furnaces will last about 15 to 20 years, but investing in a new one brings with it many benefits. Namely, a more efficient furnace will reap much higher energy savings--not to mention a more comfortable home. Efficiency ratings are the primary factor during a furnace replacement. Older heating systems -- or those with a continuous pilot light -- usually operate at between 68 and 72 percent efficiency. Mid-efficiency systems -- or those with no pilot light and an electronic ignition -- are between 80 and 83 percent efficient. So, if your current system's efficiency rating falls within this range, you'll benefit significantly from upgrading, as the newest, Energy Star-qualified furnaces are between 90 and 98 percent efficient. And higher-efficiency furnaces lose very little energy, which means you get more bang for your buck when a system maximizes the energy it uses. Your new furnace should also be the right size to optimize efficiency. A system that is too small or too large will consume more energy—and it will compromise comfort. Make sure your HVAC contractor uses the industry standard method for sizing, called Manual J. The installation of your furnace also matters a great deal, so choose your contractor wisely. Check credentials and ask for references, and request a rundown of the contractor's installation practices. A good installation will include sizing the ductwork, checking the system's efficiency output when installed, and checking airflow, along with other factors. Most homeowners aren't experts about furnaces, which is why you should reach out to [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://www.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). We'll help educate you about furnace replacement so that you can make an informed decision that should save you money in the long term—and save you a few sweaty outbreaks, too. Serving the Route 495/128 area, we're always happy to help. ***Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about furnaces* ***and other HVAC topics, download our free [Home Comfort Solutions Guide](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/download-the-home-comfort-solutions-guide.html).***** *[Energy efficiency image](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-37068943/stock-photo-housing-energy-efficiency-rating-certification-system-part-of-a-series.html?src=lb-7785094) via Shutterstock* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/furnace-replacement-simplify-your-decision.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/furnace-replacement-simplify-your-decision.html)