Contents
If you want the best furnace for the money, the Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency model is a strong choice. It features an upflow/horizontal installation type and a multi-speed ECM motor for better heating efficiency. The Goodman 92% AFUE model is the best value pick, saving money but offering slightly lower efficiency. With it, you miss some benefits of higher efficiency models.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Furnaces Reviewed in Detail
Below are detailed reviews of the best furnace options. Each pick has specific benefits and tradeoffs to consider.
1. Top Pick
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 GR9S800803BN offers 80,000 BTUs with 80% efficiency. It is a single-stage furnace designed for upflow or horizontal installation. This model has a multi-speed ECM motor for better airflow control. The cabinet width is 17.5 inches. It is suitable for medium-sized homes.
Pros
Good energy efficiency at 80%. The multi-speed motor improves airflow. Compact design fits in tight spaces.
Cons
Cannot be installed as a downflow. Limited warranty details are not provided.
This furnace suits homes needing reliable heating without high energy costs. It works well in moderate climates.
The Goodman GR9S800803BN is a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
2. Best for the Money
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
Goodman’s GR9S920803BN provides 80,000 BTUs and has a high efficiency of 92% AFUE. This model also features a multi-speed motor. It requires a qualified installer to enjoy the 10-year parts warranty. The cabinet width remains 17.5 inches.
Pros
High efficiency reduces energy bills. Multi-speed motor enhances comfort. Solid warranty if installed correctly.
Cons
Installation must be done by a professional for warranty. Some may find it pricier than basic models.
This furnace is good for homes needing efficient heating and reliable performance. It’s perfect for colder areas.
The Goodman GR9S920803BN is an excellent option for those wanting energy savings.
3. Best Design
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.
Nelyrho’s 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit reaches temperatures up to 2500°F. This stainless steel furnace is designed for melting metals. It includes a graphite crucible, tongs, and fire brick. This kit is ideal for DIY metal projects.
Pros
High melting temperature handles various metals. Complete kit with essential tools included. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts.
Cons
May be too specialized for casual users. Requires safety precautions when operating at high temperatures.
This furnace fits hobbyists and small-scale metalworkers. It’s great for recycling scrap metals or casting.
Nelyrho’s furnace is fantastic for serious metal melting projects.
4. Best for Beginners
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 features a large capacity for metalwork. It helps transform scrap into new creations. This model is ideal for blacksmithing and recycling projects. It uses propane for fuel.
Pros
Large capacity allows for bigger projects. Efficiently melts various metals. Easy to use for beginners.
Cons
Propane use means you need a fuel supply. Not portable for outdoor use without setup.
This furnace is suitable for home hobbyists and small business owners. It is ideal for those who work with metal regularly.
The VEVOR 6KG furnace is a great choice for metal casting and recycling.
5. Best Value
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.)
ACiQ’s 60000 BTU furnace offers 80% AFUE efficiency. It is suitable for upflow or horizontal installation. This furnace has a single-stage, 9-speed design for better heating control. The furnace is designed to be energy-efficient.
Pros
Energy-efficient design reduces costs. 9-speed options allow for customized heating. Compact size fits in smaller spaces.
Cons
Lower BTUs may not heat larger homes adequately. Limited warranty coverage details.
It suits smaller homes needing reliable heating without high bills. Best for moderate climates.
The ACiQ 60000 BTU furnace is a good pick for budget-friendly heating.
6. Best for Daily Use
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 has a 1350W heating element. It reaches temperatures up to 2102°F. The furnace includes ceramic crucibles and safety gear. This model is designed for melting various metals.
Pros
PID digital control ensures accurate temperature management. Includes necessary accessories for safety. Versatile for different metals.
Cons
Lower capacity limits larger projects. Electric operation may limit portability.
This furnace is great for jewelers and metal hobbyists. It is suitable for small-scale melting projects.
The VEVOR Gold Melting Furnace is ideal for precise metalwork and casting.
7. Runner-Up
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
Goodman’s GR9T961004CN has a high efficiency of 96% AFUE. This two-stage furnace operates quietly and evenly heats your home. It features a multi-speed fan for better airflow.
Pros
Very efficient, saving on energy bills. Two-stage operation enhances comfort. Quiet operation is a big plus.
Cons
Installation is limited to certain configurations. Higher initial cost compared to single-stage furnaces.
Perfect for homeowners prioritizing energy efficiency and comfort. Best for cold climates.
The Goodman GR9T961004CN is an excellent choice for efficient heating.
8. Best Splurge
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
Goodman’s GR9T961205DN offers an impressive 120,000 BTUs with 96% efficiency. It is designed for upflow or horizontal installation. This model features a multi-speed motor for increased comfort.
Pros
High capacity suited for larger homes. Excellent efficiency helps reduce energy costs. Quiet operation enhances home comfort.
Cons
Installation limitations apply. Requires professional installation for warranty.
This furnace is ideal for bigger homes needing powerful heating. It fits well in colder regions.
The Goodman GR9T961205DN is a top choice for ample heating and efficiency.
Furnaces Compared Side by Side
The table below compares key features of each furnace. You will see columns for heating efficiency, BTU rating, and special features. This helps you find the best furnace for the money based on your home needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency Multi-Speed | Top Pick | Goodman | $1250 | Check |
| 2 | Goodman 92% AFUE Single Stage Upflow/Horizontal… | Best for the Money | Goodman | $1622.16 | Check |
| 3 | Nelyrho 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit | Best Design | Nelyrho | $159.99 | Check |
| 4 | VEVOR 6KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit | Best for Beginners | VEVOR | $89.89 | Check |
| 5 | ACiQ 60000 BTU 80% AFUE Gas Furnace | Best Value | ACiQ | $990 | Check |
| 6 | VEVOR Gold Melting Furnace | Best for Daily Use | VEVOR | $174.99 | Check |
| 7 | Goodman 96% AFUE Two Stage Upflow/Horizontal multi-speed… | Runner-Up | Goodman | $2245.11 | Check |
| 8 | Goodman 120,000 BTU 96% Efficiency multi-speed | Best Splurge | 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 to Choose Furnaces
Heating Efficiency Ratings
Choose a furnace with at least 80% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). This rating shows how well the furnace converts fuel to heat. Higher ratings mean better energy savings. A model with 90% or higher is better for colder climates.
BTU Capacity
Select a furnace with the right BTU (British Thermal Units) for your home size. A standard rule is 30-60 BTUs per square foot of living space. Larger homes need more BTUs. For example, an 80,000 BTU unit is good for around 1,300-1,500 square feet.
Installation Type
Check the installation type: upflow, downflow, or horizontal. Upflow models blow air upwards and are common in basements. Downflow units work well in attics or ceilings. Make sure you choose one that fits your home layout.
Noise Levels
Consider the noise level of the furnace. Many modern models offer quieter operation with multi-speed fans. If noise is a concern, look for units specifically noted for quiet performance. Fan ratings in decibels (dB) can help you make a choice.
Warranty Length
A longer warranty provides better confidence. Look for furnaces with at least a 10-year parts warranty. This indicates the manufacturer’s confidence. If you buy a furnace, register it to enjoy full warranty benefits.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reliable industry sources, including manufacturer websites and HVAC forums. This helped verify product details and specifications. We reviewed around 20 different furnace models to create this article.
How we built this shortlist
This shortlist focuses on furnaces known for value and efficiency. We filtered based on BTU ratings, AFUE efficiency, and user reviews. Only models with solid feedback from verified buyers made the cut.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded units with poor efficiency ratings under 80% AFUE. Models with limited warranties or negative user feedback were also ruled out. This way, we present only reliable options that offer good value.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were performed for this review. All data is based on desk research and user reviews. We did not create any performance scores or subjective ratings.
How often this page is updated
We plan to update this page every six months. This ensures that the information remains current and accurate. Product details and availability can change, so regular updates are important.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best furnace for the money?
The Goodman 80,000 BTU 80% Efficiency model is considered one of the best furnaces for the money. It offers a solid balance of efficiency and performance without high costs.
How long do gas furnaces last?
On average, gas furnaces last about 15 to 20 years. Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan. Consider replacing it if you experience frequent breakdowns.
What is AFUE?
AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It measures a furnace’s efficiency in converting fuel to heat. A higher AFUE indicates better efficiency.
Do I need a multi-speed furnace?
Multi-speed furnaces can adjust heating output based on demand. This feature can improve comfort and save energy. If you want better temperature control, consider a multi-speed unit.
Is it worth getting a furnace with a warranty?
Yes, a warranty provides protection against defects and issues. Look for units with at least a 10-year parts warranty for better security.
What to look for
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is key when choosing a furnace. Look for models with an AFUE rating of at least 80%. Higher ratings save more energy and lower your bills. For homes in colder areas, consider models with 90% AFUE or higher.
BTU Rating
The BTU rating shows how much heat a furnace can produce. Choose a furnace that matches your home’s size. A general guideline is 30-60 BTUs per square foot. For example, a home of 1,500 square feet might need 45,000 to 90,000 BTUs.
Noise Level
Noise levels can affect comfort in your home. Modern furnaces often feature quieter designs. Check for products with noise ratings in decibels (dB). A lower dB rating means quieter operation, which can be more comfortable.
Installation Options
Installation type is important for furnace performance. Furnaces can be upflow, downflow, or horizontal. Verify the correct type for your home layout. This ensures efficient heating and proper airflow.
Maintenance Requirements
Regular maintenance is important for furnace longevity. Look for models with easy access to filters and components. Some units offer self-diagnostic features. These can simplify regular checks and repairs.
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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