What is a significant advantage of using a condensing gas furnace?

A significant advantage of using a condensing gas furnace lies in its ability to achieve higher efficiency ratings, often exceeding 90% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). This level of efficiency means that a greater portion of the fuel consumed is converted into usable heat for the home, rather than being wasted. This not only results in lower energy bills for homeowners but also reduces environmental impact by minimizing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

In comparison to traditional furnaces, condensing models utilize additional heat contained in the flue gases during combustion, allowing them to extract more heat from the fuel. This is typically accomplished through a secondary heat exchanger that capitalizes on the latent heat of condensation, enhancing overall efficiency.

The other options, while relevant to gas furnaces, do not reflect the primary advantage of condensing models as clearly as efficiency does. Lower initial costs are generally associated with conventional systems, while compact sizes and quieter operations can vary widely among different furnace types. Therefore, the striking efficiency of condensing gas furnaces stands out as their most significant benefit.