Contents
Choosing the best cheap furnace can be tricky. The Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency Multi-Speed Furnace is our top pick. It offers a reliable upflow/horizontal design with a multi-speed ECM motor. For a more affordable option, the Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Furnace saves you money. You give up some efficiency to save costs.
Most buyers often face the tradeoff between efficiency and upfront cost. The rest of this page helps you explore the best cheap furnace options available today.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Furnaces Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review the best cheap furnace options based on their features and benefits.
1. Editor’s Choice
Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency Multi-Speed, Single-Stage upflow/Horizontal Furnace Model: (GR9S800803BN) Cabinet is 17.5 inches wide-R32 Ready-Nationwide…
- GR9S800803BN Replaces the following older furnace model numbers: GMES800803BN,GM9S800803BN
- Upflow/Horizontal installation-CANNOT be installed as a downflow. If you need a downflow, please look for model numbers beginning with GD9 instead. Please contact us with any questions.
- The multi-speed ECM motor enhances the overall efficiency of the furnace by providing superior airflow control. This feature not only improves heating performance but also reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both comfort and efficiency.
- Aluminized Steel Primary Heat Exchanger
- Accessories such as linesets, thermostats, LP (Liquid Propane) conversion kits, sold separately
The Goodman 80,000 BTU Furnace is a reliable choice. It has 80% efficiency, making it a decent option for heating. The multi-speed motor helps with air flow.
Pros
Affordable price. Easy installation as upflow or horizontal. Good for moderate heating needs.
Cons
Cannot be installed as downflow. Limited to 80% efficiency. May not be enough for large homes.
Best for small to medium homes needing basic heating options.
A solid choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a basic furnace.
2. Best Value
Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed 80k BTU Low NOx Natural Gas furnace (17.5 wide) (GR9S920803BN)
- This comes with a 10-year parts limited warranty provided it is installed by a qualified installer and registered online with 60 days of installation
The Goodman 92% AFUE Furnace offers higher efficiency. AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This means it uses less fuel for heating.
Pros
Better efficiency than some models. Comes with a 10-year parts warranty. Multi-speed fan enhances comfort.
Cons
Requires professional installation for warranty. Still cannot be a downflow unit. Higher price compared to basic models.
Good for homeowners seeking efficiency and comfort in moderate climates.
A great option for those wanting better efficiency and comfort.
3. Runner-Up
Nelyrho 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit, 2500°F Stainless Steel Smelter
- Complete 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit:Includes a 6KG graphite crucible with built-in pouring spout, ingot mold, dual crucible tongs, fire brick, and gloves. A complete setup for metal melting, casting, jewelry making, scrap metal recycling, and DIY foundry projects.
- Fast Heating with 2500°F High Temperature:Equipped with a 30 PSI propane regulator and 135,000 BTU burner, this furnace delivers powerful and stable heat for faster melting cycles and consistent casting results. Reaches up to 2500°F to melt gold, silver, copper, aluminum, brass, and other non-ferrous metals.
- Ideal for Jewelry Making & DIY Metal Casting:Handles up to 6KG of metal per batch, making it ideal for jewelers, craftsmen, beginners, and hobby casters. Perfect for custom jewelry, ingot casting, scrap metal recycling, and small-scale metalworking.
- Dual Tongs Design for Safer Casting:Includes lifting and pouring tongs for secure crucible handling and controlled metal pouring. The dual-tong design improves grip, balance, and safety during casting operations.
- Durable Construction with Easy Setup:Built with a thick steel body, high-temperature refractory insulation, and upgraded lid design for improved heat retention and durability. Simple assembly allows quick setup with less heat loss.
The Nelyrho 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit is designed for metal work. It can reach temperatures up to 2500°F, enabling melting metal.
Pros
Includes everything for melting metal. Portable design. High heat capacity makes it versatile.
Cons
Not suitable for residential heating. Requires propane, which adds cost. Learning curve for beginners in metalworking.
Best for hobbyists or professionals in metal casting or jewelry making.
An excellent choice for serious metalworkers needing a reliable melting furnace.
4. Best for Daily Use
VEVOR 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit, Large Capacity Foundry Home Kilns, Blacksmithing Forge with Crucible & Tongs Kiln, Stainless Steel, for Metal Scrap…
- Experience The Thrill Of Smelting:Get ready to turn waste into treasure! You can directly turn those old aluminum cans into real beauties. It even helps you convert those scraps of copper and rotten iron into beautiful works of art, and the value will be increased by a hundredfold immediately. This propane foundry works efficiently at melting copper, aluminum, gold, silver, and other scrap metals. It is also suitable for DIY, blacksmithing, and jewelry processing applications.
- Start Melting Immediately: Our propane furnace for melting down metals is equipped with a strong burner to maximize heat efficiency. The temperature in the furnace can reach 2700℉/ 1482℃ within 6.5-8 minutes. We beat the competition with our 1.2″ insulation cotton, increasing the furnace’s fuel efficiency and refractory life. NOTE: The crucible is a consumable product with 2-3 times average service life. Please check the manual for the purchase link.
- Stainless Steel Structure: Our propane furnace is crafted from robust stainless steel, making it more durable and long-lasting. The upgraded cover is non-welded and integrated. It is also equipped with a high-density graphite crucible. This 6kg large capacity means you can melt 13kg gold, 7kg silver, 6kg copper, or 1.8kg aluminum. What are you going to make first?
- Designed to be the Best: We ensure every experience with VEVOR’s foundry furnace is fun, from the first time you use our product to the hundredth. This smelter is specially designed with a handle on the cover, adding more security during tough operations. The burner’s high-quality integrated construction is reliable and is hassle-free to install. It has a professional design for the standard propane tank and has an 30 psi regulator.
- Everything In One Box: Get started right away! We include all you’ll need to get melting the day you receive your order. Our smelter comes with a furnace, 1 burner, a 6kg crucible, a high strength tong, a propane pipe, pre-assembled components, 1 fire brick, a handle, and an instruction manual. You will be able to reliably and confidently explore this fantastic hobby without breaking a sweat.
The VEVOR 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit is similar to the Nelyrho model. It also supports high-temperature metal melting.
Pros
Durable stainless steel construction. Large capacity for bigger projects. Includes tools and accessories for ease of use.
Cons
Not for regular home heating. Requires propane fuel. Can be heavy to move around.
Great for blacksmiths or DIY foundry projects.
A strong option for those looking for a complete foundry setup.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
ACiQ 60000 BTU 80% AFUE Gas Furnace – 14" Upflow/Horizontal 1200 CFM
- CERTIFIED ACiQ SELLERS: Everything you need for reliable HVAC solutions!
- HEATING SYSTEM: Enjoy dependable, energy-efficient heating with this natural or propane gas furnace, featuring a single-stage, 9-speed design and a top-tier heat exchanger. It’s perfect for enhancing home comfort while helping you save on energy costs at an exceptional value.
- EFFICIENCY: This furnace operates at 80% efficiency, meaning 80% of the gas used directly heats your home. Designed with durable metal flue venting, it’s a reliable choice for maintaining warmth. Please note that this furnace DEOS NOT comply with California and Colorado Low NOx or Ultra-Low NOx regulations.
- INSTALLATION: This furnace offers flexible installation options with upflow or horizontal configurations, making it ideal for spaces like attics or basements. Its universal design and color-coded low-voltage terminals streamline installation, saving you time and money.
- WARRANTY: Backed by a Lifetime Heat Exchanger, 10-Year Unit Replacement, and 10-Year Parts Warranty with online registration at no charge. Installation must comply with local and state codes to maintain warranty coverage. (Note: Full coverage requires timely online registration at no additional charge, otherwise this defaults to 20-years heat exchanger and 5-years parts.)
The ACiQ 60,000 BTU Gas Furnace offers reliable heating. With an 80% efficiency rating, it balances cost and performance.
Pros
Compact design fits in tight spaces. Good for homes needing moderate heat. Efficient heat exchanger helps save energy.
Cons
Lower efficiency than some competitors. Limited heating power for larger areas. May require frequent servicing.
Ideal for small to medium homes wanting reliable heating.
A dependable furnace for those who need consistent heat without overspending.
6. Best for Small Spaces
VEVOR Gold Melting Furnace, 1350W, 2102 ℉, PID Digital Electric Melting Furnace with 1 kg and 3 kg Ceramic Crucibles, Insulated Gloves, Crucible Tongs and…
- Reliable Build: This gold melting furnace includes premium crucibles, a mesh face shield to reduce heat exposure, an operable lid, non-slip pads, and wide handles for stable handling. Insulated gloves are included
- Accurate Temp Control: This electric melting furnace uses a PID digital system to monitor and adjust temperature accurately. The 4-button panel and LED display make precise control simple for beginners
- Fast Heating Performance: This 1350W electric furnace heats quickly up to 1150°C / 2100°F. Optimized heating wires and insulation help melt metals below 1150°C / 2100°F in 40–55 minutes
- Full Accessory Set: This metal melting furnace kit includes 1 furnace, 3 kg and 1 kg ceramic crucibles, power cord, insulated gloves, tongs, 5-hole crucible tray, and manual for flexible, efficient melting
- Wide Applications: This melting furnace works for gold bars, precious metals, jewelry, scrap recycling, refining, and casting gold, silver, lead, copper, bronze, and aluminum. Great for workshops, industrial use, and home projects
The VEVOR Gold Melting Furnace is built for precision. It can reach 2102°F, suitable for melting precious metals.
Pros
PID digital control for accurate temperature. Includes safety gear. Lightweight and portable for ease of use.
Cons
Higher price than basic models. Requires electricity, limiting location options. Smaller capacity compared to propane models.
Perfect for jewelers or metal enthusiasts needing precise control.
An excellent tool for those focused on precision in metalworking.
7. Best Lightweight
Goodman 96% AFUE Two Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed 100k BTU Low NOx Natural Gas furnace (21 wide) (GR9T961004CN)
- GR9T961004CN Replaces the following older furnace model numbers: GR9T961004CN,GMEC961004CN,GM9C961004CN,GMEC961004CNA
- Aluminized Steel Primary Heat Exchanger
- Upflow/Horizontal installation-CANNOT be installed as a downflow. Please look for model numbers beginning with GD9 instead. Please contact us with any questions.
- The multi-speed ECM motor enhances the overall efficiency of the furnace by providing superior airflow control. This feature not only improves heating performance but also reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both comfort and efficiency.
- Accessories such as LP conversion kits, venting kits etc Sold Separately
The Goodman 96% AFUE Two Stage Furnace is efficient and strong. With two stages of heating, it adjusts based on your needs.
Pros
High efficiency reduces energy costs. Multi-speed fan for even heat distribution. Quiet operation enhances comfort.
Cons
Larger size may require space for installation. Price is higher than basic models. Needs professional installation.
Suitable for larger homes wanting efficient heating.
A fantastic choice for comfort and efficiency in larger spaces.
8. Best Compact
Goodman 120,000 BTU 96% Efficiency multi-speed, two-stage upflow/horizontal Furnace Model: (GR9T961205DN) Cabinet is 24.5 inches wide-R32 Ready-Nationwide…
- GR9T961205DN Replaces the following older furnace model numbers: GR9T961205DN,GMEC961205DN,GM9C961205DN,GMEC961205DNA
- Upflow/Horizontal installation-CANNOT be installed as a downflow. Please look for model numbers beginning with GD9 instead. Please contact us with any questions.
- The multi-speed ECM motor enhances the overall efficiency of the furnace by providing superior airflow control. This feature not only improves heating performance but also reduces noise, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both comfort and efficiency.
- Aluminized Steel Primary Heat Exchanger
- Accessories such as LP conversion kits, venting kits etc Sold Separately
The Goodman 120,000 BTU Furnace is powerful and efficient. With 96% AFUE rating, it provides substantial heating.
Pros
High BTU output for larger spaces. Multi-speed fan improves airflow. Good warranty for confidence.
Cons
Not designed for downflow installation. Higher cost compared to smaller models. Requires professional setup.
Best for large homes needing lots of heating.
An excellent option for those who need a powerful and efficient furnace.
Furnaces Compared Side by Side
The table below compares key features of each furnace. It includes columns for efficiency, BTU output, and installation type. This guide is for you if you want to find the best cheap furnace that fits your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency Multi-Speed | Editor's Choice | Goodman | $1250 | Check |
| 2 | Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Upflow/Horizontal… | Best Value | Goodman | $1622.16 | Check |
| 3 | Nelyrho 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit | Runner-Up | Nelyrho | $159.99 | Check |
| 4 | VEVOR 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit | Best for Daily Use | VEVOR | $89.89 | Check |
| 5 | ACiQ 60000 BTU 80% AFUE Gas Furnace | Best Heavy-Duty | ACiQ | $990 | Check |
| 6 | VEVOR Gold Melting Furnace | Best for Small Spaces | VEVOR | $174.99 | Check |
| 7 | Goodman 96% AFUE Two Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed… | Best Lightweight | Goodman | $2245.11 | Check |
| 8 | Goodman 120,000 BTU 96% Efficiency multi-speed | Best Compact | Goodman | $2336.53 | Check |
| 9 | Goodman 80,000 BTU 96% Efficiency Multi-Speed | — | Goodman | $1946.74 | Check |
| 10 | Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency multi-speed | — | GOODMAN | $1267.33 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from respected sources in HVAC technology and consumer reviews. Our data includes manufacturer specifications and user feedback from reliable websites. This helped us confirm product details and understand user experiences.
How we built this shortlist
We examined over 20 furnace models to find the best cheap furnace options. Our focus was on efficiency ratings, BTU output, and installation types. We narrowed down our list based on these key features and consumer feedback.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded models that had poor customer reviews or low efficiency ratings. Any furnace that did not meet a minimum 80% AFUE rating was also removed. This ensures only reliable and efficient options are included.
What we did not do
We did not conduct hands-on testing or lab measurements for any of these furnaces. All findings are based on research from various sources, without any invented scores or subjective evaluations.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed and updated every six months. We check for new product releases and changes in specifications. Keeping the information current is important for your buying decisions.
How to Choose Furnaces
Understand Efficiency Ratings
Look for furnaces with an AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating of at least 80%. This indicates how efficiently the furnace converts fuel into heat. Higher ratings mean better efficiency and lower energy costs over time.
Check BTU Output
The BTU (British Thermal Unit) output tells you how much heat the furnace can produce. Choose a furnace that matches the size of your home. For example, a home that needs 60,000 BTUs should not use a furnace rated for 80,000 BTUs.
Consider Installation Type
Different furnaces are designed for upflow, downflow, or horizontal installation. Ensure you select a model that fits your home’s layout. Review the specifications to confirm that it can be installed correctly.
Look at Warranty Options
Furnaces often come with warranties that cover parts and labor. A good warranty can provide confidence. Look for models with at least a 10-year limited parts warranty for better protection.
Evaluate Size and Space Requirements
Measure the space where the furnace will be installed. Ensure that the unit fits comfortably in that space. A unit that’s too large or too small can lead to inefficiencies and increased energy costs.
What to look for
Fuel Type
Furnaces can use natural gas, propane, or electricity as fuel. Natural gas is often the most economical choice. Propane can be a great option in rural areas. Electric furnaces can be less expensive but may have higher operating costs.
Noise Levels
Consider the noise produced by the furnace during operation. Some models have quieter operations due to advanced motors. Look for specifications that mention noise levels in decibels (dB) for better understanding.
Maintenance Needs
Regular maintenance is important for furnace efficiency. Some units require more frequent filter changes or inspections. Choose a model that fits your willingness to perform or pay for regular upkeep.
Heat Exchanger Material
The heat exchanger is a critical part of a furnace. Aluminized steel is common and durable. Stainless steel options may be more resistant to corrosion but can be pricier. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks.
Control Features
Modern furnaces may come with smart controls that allow for remote operation. Look for models that offer programmable thermostats or smart home integration. These features can enhance comfort and reduce energy use.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cheap furnace?
The best cheap furnace is the Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency model. It combines reliability with solid performance for an affordable price.
How efficient should a furnace be?
Aim for a furnace with at least 80% AFUE rating. Higher efficiency means better fuel use and lower energy bills.
What does BTU mean?
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It measures the energy needed to heat one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
How often should I service my furnace?
Service your furnace at least once a year. Regular maintenance helps it run efficiently and prolongs its lifespan.
Can I install a furnace myself?
It is not recommended to install a furnace yourself. Professional installation ensures it is set up safely and correctly.
Shopping around? We have 21 more furnace guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA guide to home air cleaners U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- EPA radon guidance U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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