New Heating/AC Options

[moondance]

We will be replacing a 25 yr old gas furnace and AC unit soon in a 4 bedroom house with a full basement and an upstairs. Both are working, but I need to replace the system before winter. Are there other options besides a gas furnance and AC unit? We are in central Illinois, so winters can be very cold and summers very hot. We want a quality system, but one that is energy efficient also.

Thanks for any advice!

Jen and Sam

[Daltex]

What are your electric and gas rates including all fees taxes etc.

A heatpump may be worth looking into. Zoned or 2 seperate systems. Variable speed blower would help with comfort. Ductwork would need to be evaluated.

Any issues with the old equipment other than efficiency and reliability concerns?

[arc8]

Are there other options besides a gas furnance and AC unit? We are in central Illinois, so winters can be very cold and summers very hot. We want a quality system, but one that is energy efficient also

Energy Efficient, you say!
First, you need energy efficient equipment: 90+% nat gas furnace will do, not those 80%, not those one-pipe 90+%, not those unsealed combustion chambers furnaces!!! Next; go at least 14 SEER R410 central air for your area. Maybe you can go with a higher SEER if your local utility offers rebates!

Note: Up where i am, nat gas is the best deal. It usually beats an Heat pump with off-peak! it just doesn't pay to have a HP installed where nat gas is supplied, but not always. It depends on each house!
In other words, an HP might be worth considering. (HP with nat gas Furnace)

Second, the duct system: you can have the most efficient equipment in the world, but having a typical duct system negates your total system efficiency!

Without an Heat Load calc done, you can't select the proper size of equipment, you can't size the duct work correctly, you can't deliver the right amount of airflow to each area correctly; it won't be comfortable, it won't be efficient, and it won't be economical (cost less to operate).

In other words: Have someone perform a Heat Load for your house. Remember, without a quality designer, "Quality" installs go out the window.

A "Quality System" (Efficient equipment + a good Design) is what everyone should aim for!

[beenthere]

if your electric is more 13 cents per KW, and your gas is less then dollar 20 a therm, then a gas furnace only is cheaper the a dual fuel heat pump.

Post yoour rates.