Best Ultra-Low NOx Gas Furnaces That Comply With New California Standards
We can all find small ways to help the environment. Recently, California made a big change by enacting new emission standards for both residential and commercial furnaces.
The goal of the new standards, which we’ll explain below, is to reduce the levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions released into the air. NOx contributes to smog, acid rain, poor water quality, and global climate change – not to mention individual health issues such as asthma and other respiratory conditions.
These gases are released when burning fossil fuels like oil, coal, diesel fuel, and natural gas. While gas furnaces are not the only producers of NOx, residential buildings create about a quarter of California’s total emissions, which is why these standards were created and important to the future of our state. The new standards are part of the larger effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030.
What you need to know about the new standards
There are actually two new standards that have gone into effect. They are the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) Rule 1111 and San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District’s (SJVAPCD) Rule 4905. For brevity, we’ll refer to them as Rule 1111 and Rule 4905.
The new standards became official in October 2019. According to Rule 1111 and Rule 4905, any new natural gas-fired, fan-type central furnace installed must be certified as an ultra-low NOx unit. This means that it produces at least 65% lower NOx emissions than standard furnaces (from 40 to 14 nanograms/joule or less).
Will this affect your current furnace? Don’t worry, there’s nothing else you need to do or worry about until it’s time to replace the unit. The new standards also do not affect other types of heating systems, including heat pumps and boilers.
Finally, when it comes time to install a new gas furnace in your home, it will have to be an ultra-low NOx model that complies with Rule 1111 and Rule 4905. Here at Liberty Plumbing, we have a number of excellent options to choose from.
Ultra-low NOx gas furnaces
Furnace manufacturers knew these standards were coming and have developed a wide range of ultra-low NOx products that meet or exceed the requirements of Rule 1111 and Rule 4905. Below are a few high-tech furnaces from leading brands that we at Liberty Plumbing carry and recommend for our customers in California.
Our Recommendation:
1. American Standard
We recommend American Standard’s Ultra Low NOx product line. They offer a variety of furnaces that comply with new standards. They focus on creating highly efficient, reliable, heating and cooling systems that improve your home’s comfort and have smart home solutions and options.
Ultra-Low NOx 80% AFUE furnace family, L8X1
2. Goodman Air Conditioning & Heating
We recommend Goodman Air Conditioning & Heating’s Ultra Low NOx, Single-Stage Multi-Speed EC Gas Furnace with 80% AFUE (GMES80-U). This high quality unit is reliable, energy-efficient, quiet, simple to operate, and has the option to include an electronic air cleaner and humidifier. This excellent unit offers outstanding limited warranties. All units are designed, engineered, and assembled in the U.S.A.
GMES80-U
SINGLE-STAGE GAS FURNACE
ULTRA-LOW-NOX, MULTI-SPEED ECM
80% AFUE PERFORMANCE
Upflow/Horizontal
The equipment you choose to install is an important decision. Don’t worry, we can help you make the best decision for your home. A highly trained heating and cooling specialist will know what questions to ask about your current home comfort, and take the right measurements to determine the size of the equipment you need. Bigger isn’t always better! If your unit is incorrectly sized or installed, then your home comfort will be greatly impacted.
At Liberty, we know how to determine what will work best for your home and comfort needs and meet government requirements. With expert installation, you will get the most from your equipment, maintain warranties, and experience improved home comfort. Whatever you choose, make sure to have an experienced, licensed, and insured heating and cooling company install and maintain your equipment.
Ultra-Low NOx Gas Furnace installation in Murrieta, San Diego & Winchester, CA
The new regulations in California are a good step toward reducing our impact on the environment. As with any big change, there is bound to be some confusion or even misinformation floating around.
Rest assured, Liberty Plumbing is here to answer any questions you have about Rule 1111 and Rule 4905. Our experienced team is ready to help you select and install the perfect ultra-low NOx furnace for your home. Call us today at (951) 760-4215.
