When it’s time to replace your furnace, efficiency ratings are one of the smartest tools you can use to compare your options. They tell you how much energy your system uses to heat your home—and how much is wasted in the process. With the right information, you can make a smart investment that lowers your utility bills, reduces your carbon footprint, and keeps your Sparks home comfortable for years to come.
What Furnace Efficiency Really Means
A higher efficiency rating means your furnace converts more of its fuel into usable heat. The standard measure for this is called Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). For example, a furnace with a 90 AFUE rating turns 90% of the fuel it uses into heat—losing only 10% through exhaust or other inefficiencies.
Each furnace model lists its AFUE rating, and in general, the higher the number, the better the performance. It’s a straightforward way to compare systems and find one that balances comfort and cost.
Efficiency vs. Overall System Performance
It’s important to remember that AFUE measures the furnace alone—not the entire heating system. Even a high-efficiency furnace can lose heat if other parts of the system aren’t in good shape.
One of the biggest issues we see in Reno and Sparks homes is leaky or dirty ductwork. Ducts running through attics or crawl spaces can let up to 35% of heated air escape, especially if they’re old or poorly insulated. That’s why checking your ducts—and having them cleaned or sealed by a professional—can make a noticeable difference in your comfort and energy use.
Choosing the Right Efficiency Level
For most Northern Nevada homes, gas furnaces are the most common option. Standard models typically have around an 80% AFUE, while high-efficiency models can reach 90–97%.
That extra efficiency may cost more upfront, but it can quickly pay off through lower utility bills, rebates, and energy credits. Gas also tends to be more affordable than electricity in the Reno–Sparks area, and gas furnaces generally last longer than electric heat pumps—making them a solid long-term investment.
Before you decide, it’s worth doing a quick calculation to see how much you could save. For instance, upgrading from an 80% to a 90% furnace means 10% less wasted energy every time your system runs. Multiply that by months of winter heating, and the savings can add up fast.
Why Energy Star Models Are Worth It
If you want a furnace that saves money and helps the environment, look for the Energy Star label. These models meet strict efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, meaning they deliver dependable comfort with lower emissions and reduced energy use.
Choosing an Energy Star furnace is good for your wallet and the planet—a win-win for families in the high desert, where energy conservation and clean air matter more than ever.
Work With Local HVAC Experts
If your current furnace is blowing cold air, running nonstop, or heating your home unevenly, it may be time to replace it. The best way to make sure you’re choosing the right system is to work with local professionals who understand Northern Nevada homes and climate.
At All Hours Air, our certified HVAC specialists can evaluate your home’s size, insulation, and ductwork to recommend the best high-efficiency furnace for your needs. We also offer full system checkups, maintenance, and expert installation to help you get the most from your investment.
Schedule Your Furnace Evaluation Today
There’s no better time to prepare your home for the cold months ahead. Call All Hours Air today to schedule a furnace evaluation with one of our Sparks-based technicians. We’ll help you choose an energy-efficient system that keeps your home warm, your bills low, and your comfort steady all winter long.