Is It Worth Upgrading to a High-Efficiency Furnace?

A Smart Furnace Guide for Chicago Homeowners From the Experts at Shavitz

If your furnace is aging, struggling to keep up, or sending your energy bills through the roof, you’re probably wondering: Is it worth investing in a high-efficiency heating system?

Short answer? Yes—if it’s done right.

At Shavitz Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve helped thousands of Chicago homeowners upgrade to high-efficiency heating systems that deliver better comfort, cleaner air, and long-term savings.

However, not all furnace upgrades are created equal. Let’s break down what makes a smart investment—and how to make sure you get it right the first time.

What Is a High-Efficiency Furnace? And Why Does That Number (AFUE) Matter?

A high-efficiency furnace is designed to turn more of the fuel it burns into usable heat for your home—at least 90% or more, to be exact.

You’ll often hear the term AFUE, which stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. Think of it as a fuel-to-heat scorecard:

• A furnace with 90% AFUE converts 90% of its fuel into heat and loses only 10% through exhaust.
• Older models with 60%–70% AFUE lose a lot more—meaning you’re paying for energy that never reaches your living space.

That’s a big deal in Chicago, where your furnace works hard for months on end. With a high-efficiency system, you get more heat for your money—and your home stays cozier without burning through fuel.

Common Features of a High-Efficiency Furnace:

• Two-stage or modulating burners for more precise comfort
• Variable-speed blowers for quieter, consistent airflow
• Sealed combustion for added safety and efficiency
• ENERGY STAR® certification
• Compatibility with smart thermostats and air quality enhancements

Why the Installer Matters More Than the Furnace

Even the most efficient system can underperform—or fail prematurely—if it’s not installed correctly.

That’s why choosing a reputable, experienced HVAC contractor is just as important as the equipment itself.

At Shavitz, we perform a full Manual J load calculation on every replacement to ensure your new furnace is sized properly for your home’s layout, insulation, and lifestyle. Skipping this step can lead to:

• Short cycling
• Uneven temperatures
• Higher energy use
• Increased wear and tear

Top Benefits of a High-Efficiency Furnace (When It’s Done Right)

1. Enjoy Lower Monthly Energy Bills With a New Furnace

Less fuel = lower costs. And when paired with smart thermostat technology, the savings only get better.

2. A New Furnace Has Even, Quiet, Reliable Comfort

Modulating and variable-speed heating systems adjust automatically to your home’s needs—no more temperature swings or noisy on/off cycles.

3. Add IAQ Upgrades for Cleaner Indoor Air

High-efficiency furnaces pair perfectly with Electronic Air Cleaners (EACs), humidifiers, and UV lights for better filtration and air quality throughout your home.

Ask your Shavitz tech how to improve your air quality alongside your upgrade.

4. Furnace Rebates, Tax Credits, and Long-Term ROI

With available ComEd/Nicor rebates and federal tax incentives (expiring December 31, 2025), high-efficiency systems are more affordable than ever—and many homeowners see full ROI in 5–7 years or less.

5. Smart Thermostat Compatibility

Modern furnaces deserve modern controls. A smart thermostat helps you fine-tune comfort, cut energy waste, and even track your system’s health—all from your phone.

Related: What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat in Winter?

When Upgrading Your Furnace Makes Sense

You should strongly consider upgrading your furnace if:

• Your furnace is 15+ years old.
• You’ve noticed rising utility bills or inconsistent temps.
• You plan to stay in your home for 5 years or more.
• You want to pair your system with IAQ upgrades, such as an EAC or humidifier.
• You’re remodeling, finishing a basement, or adding square footage.

Related: Should I Repair or Replace My HVAC System?

Upfront Furnace Costs vs. Long-Term Value

It’s true—high-efficiency heating systems cost more up front. But between lower bills, rebates, longer lifespan, and fewer repairs, most homeowners come out ahead.

Let’s say you save $50/month in gas when you upgrade to a higher AFUE furnace. That’s $600/year—or $6,000 over a decade—not including rebates or repairs avoided!

Still Not Sure About a New Heater? Let’s Talk About It.

Every home is different—and so is every heating solution. At Shavitz Heating & Air Conditioning, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all.

We’ll take the time to:

• Evaluate your current system.
• Run proper Manual J sizing.
• Discuss your comfort goals, air quality needs, and budget.
• Recommend the right furnace, not just the most expensive one.

Call 847-861-5559, stop by 8024 St. Louis Ave, Skokie, IL 60076, or request service online to schedule your free, no-pressure consultation today.

A Smart Upgrade Starts With the Right Partner

Upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace is one of the best investments you can make in your home—but only if it’s installed properly and tailored to your space.

With expert sizing, quality installation, and custom comfort upgrades like smart thermostats, humidifiers, and EACs, your new system can deliver:

• Lower bills
• Better comfort
• Cleaner air
• Less noise
• Fewer repairs

Let the pros at Shavitz help you upgrade with confidence—and comfort that lasts.