New gas furnaces have efficiencies from 80% to 95%. The New Orleans area is not considered a heating market since the number of hours of heating required in an average year is low compared to northern states. But, there are savings to be obtained. An article was published by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) that will help you roughly estimate the cost savings and the Return On Investment (ROI) of replacing your existing furnace.
If your furnace was purchased prior to 1992 the efficiency is more than likely 65% otherwise it is 80%.
If you have an idea of how much it will cost to install a new system, use the chart in the article to calculate how much money you are likely to save each year with a more efficient system, and what your return on investment is likely to be. Remember, when fuel prices go up, your savings will go up.
Calculate Dollar Savings per $100 of Annual Fuel Cost
If you need assistance or would like to discuss your heating and air conditioning needs Surgi's offers free system analysis in the Greater New Orleans area including the Northshore. Call 469-4232 to set up an appointment.