High-efficiency furnaces use 30 percent less energy than traditional furnaces. Most traditional furnaces, however, only function at nearly 75 percent efficiency, which is why so many homeowners purchase high-efficiency furnaces. Natural gas and oil prices are constantly rising, so buying an efficient heating system that will lower your yearly energy consumption is a smart investment.
Energy-Efficient Furnaces Help Homeowners Save Money
Although many homes are heated by renewable solar power, numerous houses still depend on fossil fuels, such as fuel oil and natural gas. However, warming a home with fossil fuel is becoming more expensive because fuel costs are not decreasing.
If your furnace is over 15 years old or needs frequent repairs, you should replace it with an energy-efficient unit. A high-efficiency furnace will reduce your energy costs substantially, and you will save hundreds of dollars every year. In addition, your new furnace will reduce air pollution because it does not generate energy from conventional power plants.
Though, before you purchase a new furnace, you should make your home more energy efficient. All leaks in the attic, roof, and walls should be sealed. Then, place insulation throughout your home and install insulated window shades in key locations. These tasks will help you save more money in the long run.
Choosing a Furnace That Offers the Most Benefits
An Energy Star qualified furnace is highly recommended because it provides less greenhouse gas emissions. The furnace commonly has an 85 percent Annual Fuel Utilization rating. If you want the best energy benefits, purchase a unit that has a rating of 90 percent or higher.
Environmental Benefits
A furnace’s energy efficiency is measured by the Annual Fuel Utilization rating, and manufacturers must display the score on every unit they sell. The number determines how much fuel is turned into heat. However, the U.S Department of Energy warns consumers that the rating does not calculate heat loss that occurs in the piping and duct system in a home.
The Department of Energy still recommends that homeowners upgrade their furnaces from 56 percent to 90 percent efficiency. Do doing this, 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide emissions will be saved in an average cold-climate home each year if the home is heated by gas. Also, the monthly energy bill will reduce by 38 percent.
The Department of Energy also recommends that homeowners replace their old coal burners if the burners were switched to oil or gas.
This post was written by Timothy Smith from Modernize: a site were homeowners can get inspiration and ideas on how to turn their home improvement dreams into a reality.