Top 5 High-Efficiency Furnace Models of 2021

Top high-efficiency furnace models can keep your home warm during the coldest period of the year. However, installing one in your home requires caution and due diligence.

The best option is a high-energy furnace that’s suitable for your space and will also save you costs in the long run. We understand that picking a furnace that meets these requirements can be a complicated prospect. That’s why this blog discusses the best high-efficiency furnace models of 2021.

We’ll highlight different high-efficiency furnace options with varying capacities, features, and costs. Let’s get into it!

Top 5 High-Efficiency Furnace Models of 2021

These furnaces are from different brands and have different capacities, features and diverse installation costs. Have a look at the top five high-efficiency furnaces for your home:

Lennox SLP98V Gas Furnace

If you’re searching for a furnace that’ll keep your home comfortable and at a steady temperature throughout the worst period of the winter season, then this unit is the solution. The Lennox SLP98V Variable-Capacity Gas Furnace is one of the best that the industry has to offer.

A Lennox SLP98V furnace is one of the most advanced models in the 2021 market thanks to its state-of-the-art features.

Energy Star Qualification and AFUE Rating

Getting an energy star rating, which not every appliance has, means the product meets certain federally mandated criteria concerning energy efficiency. Certified products like the Lennox SLP98V gas furnace deliver the features and performance that customers require, in addition to increased energy efficiency.

The Lennox SLP98V furnace model also has an Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of about 98.2%. It means getting a Lennox SLP98V furnace can help save you over $800 every year.

Variable-Speed Motor

A variable-speed motor is a motor with a variable frequency drive or similar technology installed to control motor speed and torque. A Lennox SLP98V furnace model has a variable-speed motor that can automatically adjust to suit the temperature and humidity levels in your home.

The variable-speed motor enables the Lennox SLP98V furnace to fluctuate its output from 35% to 100% or as required.

Reliability

The Lennox SLP98V furnace is built with a Duralok Plus ™ heat exchanger made of high-quality patented ArmorTuf ™ steel to ensure reliability and efficiency. The Duralok Plus is a clamshell heat exchanger and condenser oil assembly.

Dual Energy Source

A Lennox SLP98V furnace has a heat pump that enables it to alternate between two energy sources, including gas and electricity. The furnace substitutes its energy source depending on the weather and interior temperature you desire.

Noiseless Feature

Until lately, furnaces had high noise levels when heating your home. However, recent technology now makes it possible to purchase a furnace that’s not only efficient but also outstandingly quiet.

As one of the top high-efficiency furnaces in 2021, it’s only right that the Lennox SLP98V is noiseless. The SilentComfort ™ Technology

in the Lennox furnace allows you to relax in a conducive and quiet environment.

Direct-Readout Diagnostics

The Lennox SLP98V furnace comes with SureLight control board technology that gives direct-readout diagnostics. The direct-readout technology makes it easy for experts to repair the furnace.

User-friendly Temperature Control

One of the cool features of the Lennox SLP98V furnace is an iComfort programmable thermostat. Choosing a furnace model that’s iComfort enabled means you’re ensuring a better home comfort and control level.

The temperature control for a Lennox SLP98V furnace is easy to understand and user-friendly. It also gives room for smart home personalization. Smart personalisation allows you to set desired temperature levels for different times of the day and  at various time lengths.

You can also access the iComfort Wifi thermostat through your laptop, tablet or smartphone for advanced scheduling.

Cost of Purchase and Installation

To buy and install a new Lennox SLP98V furnace, expect to spend about $2,365 for the unit and $3,712 for installation, totalling $6,077.  However, the price may vary depending on your location and other factors.

HVAC certified technicians must do the installation to ensure safety. It’s not a good practice for inexperienced individuals to handle gas appliances. A more advisable approach is to contact professionals to help you with furnace installation.

Carrier Infinity 98 Furnace

The Carrier Infinity 98 is the most advanced furnace model from the Carrier brand. It has unique design innovations that enable it to achieve uncommon efficiency and quietness.

The Carrier Infinity 98 furnace comes with Greenspeed Intelligence. The Greenspeed intelligence pairs the Infinity control’s intelligence with adaptable-speed technology. Other top features include:

Variable-Speed Blower

The green speed feature also includes a variable-speed blower for the Carrier Infinity 98 model. The variable-speed blower in the unit is an awesome choice for ultimate comfort and ultra-quiet operation.

When the Infinity control’s intelligence manages the adjusting gas valve of the furnace, it enables the unit to modify its output to your home’s temperature requirements. With only 1% adjustments between 40 and 100% capacity, your home will always get adequate heating.

Once the Carrier Infinity 98 furnace model gets proper adjustments, the unit can last longer at lower and steadier capacities. It also enables the unit to be more energy-efficient and operate quietly.

Energy Star Qualification and AFUE Rating

The Carrier Infinity 98 unit is Energy Star certified and has an Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 98.5%. Getting a Carrier Infinity 98 furnace is a good buy because it’s built for premium energy savings, making it one of the best high-efficiency furnaces.

With such a high AFUE rating and energy star certification, the Carrier Infinity 98 is certainly one of the top five high-efficiency furnaces you can get currently.

Sound Performance

The unit has an excellent sound performance in terms of quietness. In addition, the Carrier 98 Infinity furnace comes with a fully insulated cabinet that enables it to minimize noise levels.

Fuel Type

Carrier Infinity 98 furnace functions solely on natural gas. But if you wish, an optional propane conversion accessory kit is accessible.

Size

The unit is available in different sizes that are suitable for most homes. The professional in charge will suggest the best model fit for your home and needs.

Warranty Coverage

Upon timely registration, you’ll get a ten-year parts limited warranty if you purchase a Carrier Infinity 98 furnace. You also get a lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty.

Cost of Purchase and Installation

A Carrier Infinity 98 Greenspeed tech furnace costs about $2,650 for the unit alone. While the installation cost is up to $5,589, both purchasing the high-efficiency furnace and the cost to install it may be up to $8,179.

Related Article: How Do I Keep My Furnace in Good Condition?

Bryant Evolution 987M Furnace

The Bryant Evolution, 987M furnace, is one of the top five in 2021 due to its performance and high- efficiency. In addition, the unit provides added comfort in the form of humidity control. Have a look at the features of a Bryant Evolution 987M furnace below.

Annualized Fuel Utilization Rating (AFUE) Rating

The Bryant Evolution 987M unit has an annualized fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of up to 98.3%. Such a high AFUE rating enables the unit to be energy-efficient, thereby helping you reduce your utility costs.

Bryant Evolution 987M Precise Gas Modulation Feature

The unit has a specific gas modulation feature that helps it constantly release an adequate amount of heat. The modulation technique makes Bryant Evolution 987M one of the top high-efficiency furnaces in the market.

Perfect Heat ™ Technology

The Bryant evolution 987M furnace also comes with Perfect Heat ™ technology. This technology makes the unit perform optimally by adjusting the system operation to changing conditions.

Perfect Humidity ™ Technology

Another feature that comes with the Bryant Evolution 987M unit is the Perfect Humidity ™ technology. The humidity technology effectively rids more moisture than a standard furnace. Therefore, installing the Perfect Humidity technology in the unit with a matching air conditioner or heat pump becomes more effective in removing moisture during a cooling operation.

Ultra Quiet Performance

The ultra-quiet performance of the Bryant Evolution, 987M furnace, is another feature you’ll enjoy. It enables the unit to function noiselessly, making the environment more comfortable for you.

External Filter Cabinet

Internal filter cabinets are more complicated to change when the need arises. But you don’t need to worry about that problem if you’re getting a Bryant Evolution 987M furnace. The unit comes with an external filter cabinet that makes changing your filter easier.

Warranty Coverage

The assurance of using a Bryant Evolution Furnace is present in the different warranty coverage packages. It has a lifetime limited warranty on the heat exchangers and a 10-year parts limited warranty that you can access upon timely registration.

Other Features of a Bryant Evolution 987M Furnace

The unit has galvanized steel, and SmartEvap technology that gives extra summer dehumidification as a part of your air conditioning system. It also comes with a Variable-speed full-featured Electronic Commutated Motor (ECM).

The heat exchangers in the unit comprise the primary and secondary heat exchangers. The primary heat exchanger comes with corrosion-resistant aluminized steel and a clamshell design. In contrast, the secondary heat exchangers consist of fin and tube stainless steel.

The fuel of the Bryant Evolution, 987M furnace, is natural gas. However, it’ll also function if the natural gas is converted to LP (Liquid Propane). Lastly, the capacity of the unit is 60,000 – 120,000 British Thermal Units (BTU).

Cost of Purchase and Installation

It costs between $2485 and $4,468 to buy a Bryant Evolution 987M gas furnace. Then the installation cost, including labour, is about $3,765 in total.

In other words, you may budget up to $6,250 to $8,233 to buy and install a Bryant Evolution 987M furnace. But, of course, the costs may vary due to certain factors, including your location.

Heil Ion 98 Furnace

The Heil Ion ™ 98 is a high-efficiency furnace that enables people to enjoy the topmost comfort in their homes, even in cold weather. The unit has spectacular temperature control and noiseless features that makes for a modulating gas performance.

Other specs of a Heil Ion 98 furnace below.

Energy Star Qualified and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)

The AFUE rating for the Heil Ion 98 unit is up to 98%. The fuel utilization rating makes Heil Ion ™ 98 among the top high-efficiency furnaces currently. The unit is also energy certified, which means that it’s automatically environmentally friendly, saves energy and cost.

Variable-speed Blower

The variable-speed blower is a Heil Ion 98 furnace feature that allows you to enjoy proper summer dehumidification. The variable blower motor alongside the modulating gas valve provides the ideal levels of comfort and even temperature control.

Dual Fuel Capability

Heil Ion 98 furnace has a dual fuel capacity, meaning that aside from its natural energy source being gas, it can also function with electricity. However, you need to install a compatible heat pump and thermostat for energy-saving heating performance.

Warranty

The Heil Ion 98 furnace comes with a 10-year No-Hassle-Replacement ™ limited warranty. Also, upon timely registration, you’ll get a 10-year parts limited warranty and a lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty.

Heating Capacity

The heating capacity of a Heil Ion ™ 98 unit is up to 60,000- 120,000 British Thermal Units per Hour (BTUh).

Cost of Purchase and Installation

The cost of buying a Heil Ion ™ 98 furnaces is from $2,350 to $4,000, including labour. The unit costs about $1,428 alone while installation costs can reach $3,012.

Goodman GMVM97 Furnace

The Goodman GMVM97 furnace isn’t a household name yet, but it remains one of the top high-efficiency furnaces you can find. Goodman GMVM97 furnace has an in-built system known as the Revolutionary Comfortbridge Technology. The unique Comfortbridge technology system enables the unit to function at peak level.

Annualized Fuel Utility Efficiency (AFUE) RATING

The Goodman GMVM97 unit is energy star certified, with an annualized fuel utility efficiency (AFUE) of 98%. As a result, the unit is one of the most efficient furnaces you can find in the market.

Self-diagnostic Control Board

The unit’s control board comes with self-diagnostics and provisions for an electronic air cleaner. It also has 120 or 24-volt humidifiers. Another important feature or spec of a Goodman GMVM97 furnace model is its colour code for low-voltage terminals.

Warranty Coverage

Goodman furnace brand provides a strong limited product warranty coverage. In addition, the brand prides itself in its product’s test-running process. It means Goodman GMVM97 furnace models out there are quality and authentic.

Goodman’s Life Compressor and Heat Exchanger have 10-year and 2-year Unit Replacement Limited Warranties. The Goodman brand also has a 10-year Parts Limited Warranty coverage.

Cost of Purchase and Installation

The average cost of a Goodman gas furnace is between $2,055 and $3,250, including buying and installing the unit. Exact HVAC installation cost depends on the ideal furnace size for your home.

Is a High-efficiency Furnace Worth the Money?

To start with, most furnaces can last for about 15 to 30 years with proper maintenance. With such a lifespan, a high-efficiency furnace is worth the money. Experts say that a high-efficiency furnace can reduce utility bills by 50%.

For instance, if your previous furnace functions at 70% AFUE, and you replace it with a 95% efficiency unit, it’ll increase the energy efficiency by over 26%. What it means is your utility bill will be cut by the same percentage. Investing in a high-efficiency furnace is a good idea and totally worth its cost.

Related Article: Furnace Repair Guide – Costs, FAQs and Tips

Final Thoughts

Having a proper functioning, high-efficiency furnace is important to your well-being, especially during the coldest period of the year. Above, we’ve provided a list of top high-efficient furnaces to install in your home.

Here at ALP Heating, we also offer top-notch furnace installation services. Our prices are affordable and our services are second to none. Get in touch with us today!