High-efficiency Furnaces
High-efficiency Furnaces | Heating and Air Conditioning | Decatur
Decatur’s sweltering summers and bone-chilling winters demand more than standard comfort solutions. HEP’s high-efficiency furnaces harness cutting-edge technology to keep your indoor climate perfectly balanced, all while trimming your monthly utility bills. Whether you’re upgrading an older unit or building a new home, our engineers pair precision sizing with Energy Star–rated equipment to deliver seamless heating and air conditioning performance.
From the first consultation to the final tune-up, HEP’s local team stands behind every install with transparent pricing, robust warranties, and 24/7 emergency support. We treat your home like our own—arriving on time, protecting your floors, and explaining every option in plain language—so you can enjoy worry-free comfort through every Decatur season.
FAQs
What makes a furnace “high-efficiency,” and why is that important for homeowners in Decatur?
A furnace is considered high-efficiency when it has an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90 % or higher; most models we install are 95–98 % AFUE. In practical terms, that means 95-98 % of the natural gas you pay for is converted into usable heat. Decatur’s winters are cold enough that heating is the single largest energy expense for most homes, so every percentage point of efficiency quickly translates into lower utility bills, reduced greenhouse-gas emissions, and a more comfortable, evenly heated home.
How much can I save on my heating bills by upgrading from an older 80 % AFUE furnace to a high-efficiency model?
Savings vary with home size, insulation levels, and thermostat settings, but Decatur homeowners typically see 20-35 % lower gas consumption after replacing an 80 % AFUE unit with a 95 %+ model. For a household spending $1,200 a year on winter heating, that’s $240–$420 in annual savings—enough for the new system to pay for itself in 5–8 years while you enjoy quieter operation and better comfort immediately.
Are there rebates or tax incentives available in Decatur for installing a high-efficiency furnace or air conditioner?
Yes. Ameren Illinois currently offers rebates of $200-$350 on qualifying 95 %+ AFUE furnaces when installed by a registered program ally like us. In addition, the federal Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C) lets you claim up to 30 % of equipment cost—capped at $600 for a furnace and $2,000 for an air-source heat pump or high-efficiency AC—on your federal income taxes. We handle all the paperwork and supply the AHRI certificates you need to claim these incentives.
Will a high-efficiency furnace integrate with my existing ductwork and central air-conditioning system?
In most cases, yes. Modern high-efficiency furnaces are designed to fit standard duct configurations and to share the same blower with your central AC. Because they use variable-speed ECM motors, they can even improve summertime airflow and dehumidification. Occasionally, older duct systems need minor resizing or the addition of a fresh-air intake to meet manufacturer specifications, but those adjustments are identified during our free in-home assessment and quoted up front.
How long does installation take, and what is the expected lifespan of a high-efficiency furnace?
A straightforward replacement usually takes one working day, including removal of your old equipment, installation of the new furnace, venting, gas-line adjustments, start-up, and homeowner orientation. If you add an AC or heat pump at the same time, expect an additional half-day. With regular maintenance, today’s high-efficiency furnaces last 15–20 years—often longer thanks to stainless-steel secondary heat exchangers and corrosion-resistant components.
What maintenance does a high-efficiency furnace require to stay efficient and reliable?
1) Replace or clean the air filter every 1–3 months so the ECM blower motor can move air freely. 2) Schedule a professional tune-up each fall to check gas pressures, inspect the heat exchangers, verify combustion efficiency, and clean the condensate drain. 3) Keep intake and exhaust PVC pipes clear of leaves, snow, and lawn debris. 4) Install a smart thermostat or set back temperatures to avoid constant high-fire operation. Following these steps maintains peak efficiency, preserves your warranty, and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns in Decatur’s coldest weather.