For most individuals, purchasing a furnace is more about necessity than excitement over potential energy upgrades it may bring.
After a heating system service, once the dust settles, it’s common to review the furnace’s owner manual and realize the long-term benefits of the investment made.
A Brief Background Acknowledging that furnaces can be energy-efficient owes much to the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, which initiated the Energy Star program in 1992. This program tests and endorses products that conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Initially focusing on computers, it later expanded to include heating and cooling systems, appliances, and electronics.
When you spot the Energy Star label on products like furnaces, it indicates rigorous testing for energy efficiency. Modern Energy Star furnaces can achieve efficiency ratings of up to 97%, a significant improvement from the 65% efficiency of 1970s furnaces. This translates into real savings on energy bills, with potential savings of about 20% annually according to the Department of Energy.
Additional Benefits of Upgrades Energy Star furnaces not only prioritize efficiency but also demonstrate:
- Balanced humidity
- Consistent temperatures
- Efficient and healthy airflow
- Reliability
- Smooth and quiet operation
Understanding the AFUE Rating The annual fuel-utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating is crucial for gauging furnace efficiency, indicating how efficiently a furnace converts gas into heating energy. Higher AFUE ratings signify greater efficiency, with Energy Star furnaces often reaching ratings in the high 90s compared to the minimum legal requirement of 78% for new gas furnaces.
Choosing the Right Furnace While higher AFUE-rated furnaces may cost more, determining the ideal rating depends on factors like climate and home insulation. Professionals like Experts In Your Home can assess your home’s heat retention and recommend suitable furnace sizes to maximize efficiency.
Ensuring Effective Energy Upgrades Heating system services focus on optimizing furnace size and efficiency to provide the energy upgrades promised by new Energy Star furnaces.