by Mark | Mar 25, 2023 | Heating System
A Comprehensive Guide to Point-of-Use Water Heaters
Hot water is a necessity in every household, but waiting for it to arrive can be time-consuming and frustrating. Fortunately, point-of-use (POU) water heaters are here to solve this problem. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to POU water heaters, including their types, benefits, and when to choose them.
What is a Point of Use Water Heater?
A point-of-use (POU) water heater is a small and compact device that heats water close to where it is needed. This type of heater is ideal for areas where hot water demand is low or intermittent, such as under sinks, in guest houses, or in RVs. It can easily be integrated into the existing plumbing system, and it’s often referred to as a “point-of-service” water heater or an “on-demand” POU water heater.
There are two main types of POU water heaters available: tank and tankless. Tank POU water heaters are designed to look like miniature versions of traditional tank water heaters, with sizes ranging from 2.5 to 20 gallons. In contrast, tankless POU water heaters do not store heated water and only heat water when a tap is turned on. Tankless POU water heaters have a smaller footprint than tank POU water heaters, but there may be a slight delay in hot water delivery.
POU water heaters are also available in different designs based on their location, including under-sink, over-sink, and wall-mounted models. A tankless heater is the most compact option as it does not require storage space, while a point-of-use tank water heater is perfect for spaces where a tankless model may not be feasible.
What are the Benefits of a Point of Use Water Heater?
Energy Efficiency: Water heating is the second highest energy use in residential homes, second only to HVAC, and can account for nearly 20% of a typical home’s electric bill. The Energy Star initiative shows that even homes equipped with a central water heater can benefit from POU water heaters, as they can help reduce heat loss in the water distribution system. POU heaters can restore the hot water temperature in fixtures farthest from the central heater. Compared to increasing the temperature setting of the central storage water heater, POU heaters can be advantageous in terms of energy efficiency. POU heaters can also be a better choice when heating water for a hot tub.
Utility Savings: According to the DOE, homeowners can lower their monthly water heating costs by as much as 50% by using POU water heaters at each water outlet. This translates to a minimum savings of $100 annually when using a POU water heater.
Longevity: Tank water heaters typically have a 10-15 year life expectancy, while tankless water heaters can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance. Additionally, tankless POU heaters are much easier to replace compared to bulky central storage tank units.
When Does a POU Water Heater Make Sense?
POU heaters are ideal for the following cases:
- Smaller homes with limited fixtures: POU heaters make better sense in homes with only one bathroom and a limited number of hot water outlets, such as a kitchen sink and washing machine.
- Larger homes with distant water outlets: Heat loss can be an issue for large residences. Even with well-insulated pipes, the farther the water has to travel from the central heating tank, the cooler it gets when it reaches its intended destination. A POU heater can boost the temperature at the endpoint without having to raise the temperature of the storage tank itself.
- Infrequent hot water use: Homes with less hot water demand can save a lot by using POU heaters, instead of relying on a wasteful storage tank heater that keeps water heated even though it’s infrequently needed.
- Low-demand fixtures: POU heaters excel in water outlets that are rarely used, such as guest rooms or powder rooms.
- Homes with limited space or plumbing issues: POU heaters can easily fit under most sinks, especially the tankless models. They can also be installed right into the existing pipe.
Step 1: Determine your hot water consumption
Before choosing a POU water heater, you should know how much hot water you use for each fixture. For example, a bathroom faucet requires 2 gallons per minute (gpm) with a minimum pressure of 8 pounds per square inch (psi), while a bathtub requires 5 gpm and a minimum pressure of 8 psi. You can find the flow rate and pressure requirements for all your water fixtures online or in their user manuals.
Step 2: Determine the type you need
There are two types of POU water heaters: tankless and tank. Tankless heaters are more energy-efficient because they only heat water when you need it, while tank heaters store hot water in a tank until it’s used. Tankless POU heaters typically have a flow rate of 0.35 to 0.5 GPM, while mini-tank POU heaters can hold 2.5 gallons. Larger tank POU heaters can hold between 4 to 19 gallons.
Step 3: Determine the size
If you choose a tank POU heater, you’ll need to decide on the tank size and recovery rate. The tank size is how much hot water the tank can hold at any given time, while the recovery rate is how quickly the unit can heat new water. In general, higher wattage means shorter recovery time.
Here are some of the best POU water heaters for 2023
Budget tankless POU water heater:
The EEMAX EMT1 1.5 Gallon Electric Utility Water Heater, 120 Volt is a small and affordable option. It measures just 14×10 inches, making it easy to fit in tight spaces. It includes an adjustable thermostat to control the temperature, and an indicator light to let you know when water is being heated.
Premium tankless POU water heater:
The Bradford White 2 Gallon Electric Utility Water Heater, 120 Volt is a more expensive option, but it has a 90°F recovery rise of about 7 minutes and an ETL rating for HUD Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards for Energy Efficiency. It also comes with fully automatic controls and the brand’s Vitraglas® Lining enamel layer, which protects the unit from the corrosive effects of hot water for a longer lifespan.
Mini-tank POU water heater:
The Bradford White RE16U6-1NAL 6 Gallon Electric Utility Water Heater, 120 Volt is a great option for those who need a bit more hot water. It can store up to 6 gallons, which is enough to service a dishwasher load or a 5-minute hot shower. At less than 17 inches tall, it’s compact enough to fit in tight spaces.
Larger-capacity tank POU water heater:
The Bradford White RE120U6-1NAL 19 Gallon Electric Utility Water Heater is a larger-capacity option that combines the storage capacity of conventional tank water heaters with the compact size and energy efficiency of POU heaters. It’s a great choice for situations where hot water demand is intermittent but space is at a premium, such as small boats, RVs, or wet bars. It also boasts fully automatic controls, Vitraglas enamel lining, and an ETL HUD Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards for Energy Efficiency
Looking for a high-quality water heater and exceptional customer service? Look no further than National Air Warehouse! Check out our selection of top-rated water heaters from trusted brands. Our knowledgeable team is always available to help you choose the right product that fits your needs and budget. Contact us at 1-888-292-0874 or visit our website to learn more. With National Air Warehouse, you can shop with confidence knowing your satisfaction is our top priority.
by Mark | Feb 9, 2023 | Heating System
Shopping for a new gas fireplace means choosing between two options for gas logs: vented or ventless. These two types may seem alike, but there are crucial differences to be aware of. Understanding which one is the best fit for your fireplace will make the decision-making process much easier. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of gas fireplaces, the different types of gas logs available, and their specific pros and cons. This way, you can make an informed decision that will benefit you in the long run.
What is a Gas Fireplace?
A gas fireplace is a heating and decorative feature powered by natural gas or propane. It offers a hassle-free alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, providing a realistic flame and efficient heat output. The convenience of a gas fireplace lies in its ease of use, with no ash cleanup, wood chopping, or chimney sweeping required. Simply connect to a gas line and enjoy a fire with the flip of a switch. Additionally, gas fireplaces are a safer option as there’s no uncontrolled flame, reducing the risk of a house fire.
There are two types of gas fireplaces available: vented and ventless. Vented fireplaces produce carbon monoxide emissions and require a chimney or flue. Ventless fireplaces, on the other hand, do not emit carbon monoxide and don’t need a chimney or flue, making the heat more likely to stay in the room. To ensure proper and safe operation, each type of gas fireplace requires specific gas logs. Discover the differences between the two options below.
Vented Gas Logs
If you enjoy the look and feel of a real wood-burning fire, try vented gas logs. Ideal for homeowners seeking a more efficient option than wood-burning fireplaces, these logs can be installed in an existing fireplace.
Like traditional fires, vented gas logs produce carbon monoxide, so they need a chimney or flue to operate. Always open the damper for proper venting. If you don’t have a chimney or flue, consider vent-free gas logs instead.
Vented logs are less efficient than vent-free logs but more efficient than wood-burning fireplaces, as some heat will escape through the chimney or flue. They have a more realistic flame appearance than ventless logs, making them appealing for those who want to keep the look of a wood-burning fireplace. They come in a variety of wooden finishes to match your home’s style.
For safety and performance, have a professional service your vented gas fireplace annually.
Vented Logs for Heating:
Vented log sets can warm a room, but they aren’t meant to be the sole heat source. This varies with room size, as smaller rooms can be effectively heated, while larger areas may take longer. Heat loss through the chimney reduces the heating capacity of the fireplace.
Conclusion: Vented gas logs are perfect for those who prioritize atmosphere over efficiency or want to convert their existing wood-burning fireplace to gas.
Efficient Heating with Ventless Log Sets
If you’re searching for a cost-effective and efficient way to heat your home, ventless gas logs may be the solution. Unlike vented logs, these sets don’t need a chimney or flue to work, so more heat stays in your home. This, combined with lower fuel consumption, makes them more efficient than vented logs.
While efficiency is gained, the appearance of the flame may not be as realistic as vented logs. However, the ventless logs offered by Total Home Supply have a beautiful, natural-looking flame. Choose from finishes like Whiskey River and Sassafras to add warmth and coziness to your home.
Aside from increased efficiency, ventless logs are also budget-friendly. With just a gas line, you’ll be able to enjoy the comfort of a warm home.
It’s important to operate and maintain your ventless unit properly for safety. They do produce gases, so it’s crucial to follow the instructions and not run the unit for longer than recommended. It’s recommended to have an annual service to keep your ventless gas firebox functioning correctly.
Ventless Gas Fireplace Safety
Ventless logs produce gases without an outlet for ventilation, but they have safety features such as oxygen depletion sensors that turn off the unit if air quality decreases. Additionally, it’s advised not to run ventless fireplaces for extended periods and to open a window or door if they have been in use for over an hour.
In summary, ventless gas logs are a good choice for those who prioritize energy efficiency and want a supplementary heating source, not the main one.
Can I Use Ventless Logs in a Vented Fireplace?
The use of gas logs for fireplaces has become a popular choice for homeowners looking for a convenient and efficient source of heat. These logs come in two main types, vented and ventless, each with its own unique features and benefits.
Vented gas logs are ideal for homeowners who value the ambience of a real fire over efficiency. They are typically used in an existing wood-burning fireplace and provide a more realistic flame. However, they aren’t ideal as the primary heat source in a home, and can take a while to heat up larger spaces due to the loss of heat through the chimney.
On the other hand, ventless gas logs are more efficient than vented sets as they don’t require a chimney or flue to operate, allowing more heat to stay in your home. They are great for those looking for a secondary source of heat, and the increased efficiency makes them a cost-effective choice. However, you’ll have to sacrifice the appearance of a real fire as the flame on most ventless sets don’t look as realistic.
While you can use ventless logs in a vented fireplace, it’s important to keep in mind that you will still lose some of the efficiency and heat from using this type of set in a vented fireplace. Ventless gas logs come with oxygen depletion sensors to ensure safety, and it’s recommended that they’re not operated for long periods of time. If the unit runs for over an hour, it’s advised to open a door or window.
Maintaining gas fireplaces is important to ensure their longevity and efficiency. It’s important to operate and maintain your unit safely and correctly, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Vent-free gas fireboxes should be serviced on an annual basis.
The Verdict
In conclusion, gas fireplaces offer a great heating solution for your home. When choosing between vented and ventless gas logs, weigh your priorities between a realistic flame and improved efficiency. Vented sets provide a more authentic flame but require a chimney or flue to operate, while ventless sets are more efficient but may not look as realistic. Regardless of your choice, it’s important to properly operate and maintain the unit for safety. National Air Warehouse is a great resource for all your gas fireplace needs and you may reach us at 888-292-0874.
by admin | Apr 3, 2018 | Heating System, HVAC, National Air Warehouse
In last week’s post, we talked about some of the functional and cost-related benefits that programmable thermostats offer for businesses. Once you’ve made the decision that a programmable thermostat is right for your business, you’re faced with a wide array of choices. Here are a few of the options you have to consider when deciding which programmable thermostat best meets your business’s needs.
- Single-Stage vs. Multi-Stage Programmable Thermostat
Whether you need a single-stage programmable thermostat or a multi-stage option depends on the heating system in your building. A single-stage programmable thermostat will be sufficient if your building relies on a single source of heat (such as a furnace or a heat pump) and a single source of cool air (such as an air conditioning system), and if both of these sources provide hot or cold air at just one level. However, if your business’s system has inputs from two heat sources–such as a heat pump and a boiler, or a heat pump and a solar panel–you should look for a programmable thermostat that offers up to two-stage heat alongside one-stage cool.
- Heat Pumps vs. Conventional Systems
Some programmable thermostats are designed to work specifically with heat pump systems, while others are intended for use with conventional systems. You can also find products on the market that work well with both system types. When choosing a programmable thermostat, make sure that the type you choose aligns with the heating system in your building.
- System Programming Options
Some products on the market allow you to program your thermostat to correspond with a weekday/weekend schedule, which is ideal for businesses that close on weekends or have different weekend hours. Instead of having to run the same program every 24 hours, you can create a 5-2 day program or a 5-1-1 day program. That way, if your business shuts down on the weekend, you don’t have to worry about remembering to reprogram on Friday night so you don’t accidentally drain your budget by pumping in warm or cold air when there is no one in the office or the store.
- Programmable/Non-Programmable Thermostats
While it is clear that programmable thermostats offer a wide range of benefits for businesses, there may still be times when you may find yourself wanting manual control over your thermostat. For instance, in the face of an unexpected heat wave or cold spell, you probably want to take full control over your thermostat to make sure your employees and customers stay comfortable. If you want to prepare for such circumstances, you should look for a programmable/non-programmable thermostat, which can be changed over when needed.
National Air Warehouse offers programmable and non-programmable thermostats that can meet the needs of any business or homeowner. Contact us today for more help choosing the right option for you!
by admin | Mar 26, 2018 | Heating System, National Air Warehouse
No matter what type of business you run, keeping the building at a comfortable temperature is a key priority. If you’re in retail, you want your customers to feel comfortable enough to browse the shelves for impulse buys, even after they’ve found what they were initially looking for. If you’re in charge of an office, you want to make sure that the temperature of the building doesn’t interfere with work productivity. At the same time, as a business owner or manager, you also have to consider the costs associated with heating and cooling.
When you’re trying to achieve an optimal temperature balance on a tight budget, you may want to think about getting a programmable thermostat. Read on to learn why programmable thermostats make sense in business environments.
Programming Your Workplace Environment in Advance
With traditional, non-programmable thermostats, someone in the office has to set the temperature manually in order to ensure that the building remains at the right temperature. Whether you plan to do it yourself or rely on one of your employees, manual management of the thermostat poses a risk for unintended consequences. For instance, if someone accidentally forgets to turn down the thermostat for the night in the dead of winter, you may find that heating costs are starting to eat into your budget. At the same time, when someone overlooks the need to turn on the air conditioner, customers and employees alike may find themselves sweaty and uncomfortable in the heat of summer, which can lower sales and/or productivity. With a programmable thermostat, you can reduce the risk of human error by setting the thermostat to be on when you need it and off when you don’t.
In addition, a programmable thermostat allows you to prepare for expected changes in temperature. During the winter, you probably don’t want to run your heater at night, but if you program your thermostat to start running an hour before people start arriving for work, you can ensure that they won’t spend their first hour trying to thaw their fingers instead of advancing organizational goals. If you live in a place where there is a temperature swing in the summer, you can do the same thing with the air conditioning–making a plan to ensure that the cooling system turns on in time for the heat of the day–but no sooner–and turns off by the time people start to head home.
Key Features for Business Owners
Aside from the general benefits of being able to program your thermostat, there are a few other benefits that many programmable thermostats offer for businesses. These include:
- A warranty, which will ensure that you are making a good investment when you buy a programmable thermostat.
- Power source options, so you can decide whether it is more cost-effective for you to use batteries or hardwiring to run your thermostat.
- Low upfront costs, which typically range between $85 and $125.
- Free shipping — if you order from National Air Warehouse!
National Air Warehouse offers a variety of programmable thermostats that can meet the needs of business owners around the country. Contact us today to find the right product for you!
by admin | Jan 23, 2018 | Heating System, Home Temperature Control, HVAC
If home builders can learn anything from the winter of 2017-2018, it’s that an effective heating systems is essential for a comfortable home. As temperatures have dropped to record lows around the country, home builders need to be aware that more clients will be interested in the ability of their home’s furnace to keep their family safe and warm, regardless of the weather outside. As a home builder, one of the decisions you have to make is whether an upflow furnace or a downflow furnace is the best choice for your project. In order to figure that out, it’s important to examine some of the distinctions between upflow and downflow furnaces, as well as what they might mean for the heating of the home.
Upflow vs. Downflow Furnaces: The Basic Differences
At the most basic level, there are key differences in the ways that upflow and downflow furnaces heat and distribute air. With an upflow furnace, the air enters the bottom of the unit, is warmed in the heat exchanger, and then is released from the top of the unit into the ductwork of the home. A downflow furnace works in the exact opposite way: the heat enters the unit from the top, gets warmed in the heat exchanger, and then is released from the bottom of the unit into the ductwork of the home. That means that upflow furnaces are typically situated in a basement or crawl-space, while downflow furnaces must be stored in an attic.
Considerations for Different Projects
If you are trying to decide whether an upflow or downflow furnace makes more sense for your project, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Energy efficiency. Heat rises, so upflow furnaces are often more energy efficient than downflow furnaces. If you’re looking to cut the carbon footprint of your home building project, an upflow furnace can help you reach your efficiency goals.
- Building and flooring costs. If you’ve already planned a basement for your home building project, this isn’t an issue but if you’re adding a basement or crawl-space to your home building project for the sole purpose of creating a space for an upflow furnace, costs can go up significantly. At the same time, adding reinforced subflooring in the attic for a downflow furnace can also be expensive.
- Installation challenges. The installation process for downflow furnaces tends to be more difficult, and you have to pay closer attention to building codes requiring reinforced subflooring.
- Homeowner preference. Some homeowners simply feel more comfortable in rooms where the heat comes below, rather than being dispersed from above. It’s a good idea to check with clients to find out about their preferences.
As a homebuilder, you can find everything you need to optimize the HVAC systems of all of your at National Air Warehouse. Contact us today for more information!
by admin | Jan 16, 2018 | Heating System, HVAC, National Air Warehouse
When you are remodeling a home or office building, you need to make sure that the gas furnace is sufficient to guarantee a comfortable temperature throughout the newly remodeled space, no matter how cold the winter weather gets. However, things can get tricky if you realize that the size of the cased coil that is required to support the needs of the newly remodeled building is too large for the existing furnace. Read on to learn how a Rheem plenum adapter accessory can help you resolve this problem.
Rheem Plenum Adapters: The Basics
At the most basic level, a Rheem plenum adapter can make it possible for a nominal sized cased coil to be installed on the next-smallest size of gas furnace. More specifically, a plenum adapter can allow you to do the following:
- Fit a 17.5-inch-wide coil 14-inch-wide furnace
- Fit a 21-inch-wide coil with a 17.5-inch-wide furnace
- Fit a 24.5-inch-wide coil with a 21-inch-wide furnace
This might seem simple, but it can make a huge difference for home remodelers, in terms of both time and cost. By using a plenum adapter, you can avoid the hassle and expense of replacing an existing gas furnace that is not sufficient to meet the needs of the remodeled space. Rheem plenum adapters run about 76 dollars, which is nothing compared to the cost of a new furnace. Plus, the installation process for a plenum adapter is relatively simple — just two steps for an upflow furnace and three steps for a downflow furnace.
Fitting a Plenum Adapter to an Upflow or Downflow Application
When you are buying plenum adapter for a gas furnace, you need to make sure that the accessory is designed for the type of furnace you are working with. An upflow system pushes air vertically out of the top of the furnace, usually from a basement. A downflow system pushes air from the bottom of the furnace, down into the vents, usually from an attic. There are slight differences in the designs of plenum adapter accessories for upflow and downflow applications, so you need to make sure you are getting the right one for your system.
National Air Warehouse offers Rheem plenum adapter accessories for upflow and downflow systems. As a home remodeler, you can also find a wide variety of other high-quality products from Rheem, one of our featured brands. Contact us today to learn more about all of our products!
by admin | Jan 9, 2018 | Heating System, Home Temperature Control, National Air Warehouse
When you are buying a new furnace or air handler, you may be asked to choose a heat strip size. Depending on the product, heat strip sizes can range from 5 kW to as high as 20 kW. Ultimately, the choice you make can mean the difference between enjoying warm, cozy winter nights at home with your family and shivering through endless evenings of uncomfortable cold, wrapped in blankets and layered clothes.
Of course, the size of your home is the most important factor, because it determines the volume of space that needs to be heated. However, there are several additional factors you need to consider when choosing the appropriate heat strip size for the furnace in your home. These factors can vary between homes, and they can make a big difference when it comes to making the appropriate decision for a heat strip size. Consider the following:
- The climate in which you live. If your house is located in the Midwest or Northeast,where the temperature regularly drops below freezing in the winter, it is likely that you will need to choose a heat strip size that is larger than the size required for someone living in the Southeast in the same size house. Watching temperatures hit record lows this year, homeowners in the Midwest and Northeast don’t want to take the risk of choosing heat strips that are too small.
- The insulation in the home. If your home is well-insulated, you may be able to get away with heat strips of a smaller size. However, if your house is poorly insulated, you may need to choose heat strips of a larger size, even if you live in a climate that is generally warm.
- The size and location of the windows. Depending on size and location, windows can either increase or decrease the heat load of the home. Uninsulated windows can transfer cold air into the home, and if they are drafty, things can get even worse. At the same time, strategically positioned windows can also let in sunlight and decrease the heating needs of your house.
When you choose heat strips that are above the standard size for your furnace or air handler, you typically have to pay a slightly higher price, but choosing the right size is typically well-worth it for homeowners. For instance, going from 5 kW heat strips to 10 kW heat strips for an upflow air handler can cost as little as 15 dollars — typically representing an increase of only about 2 percent of the total cost. As a homeowner, it’s usually best to focus on the other relevant factors when choosing athe right heat strip size for your home.
National Air Warehouse offers furnaces, air handlers, and a wide variety of other HVAC equipment. Contact us today for more information!
by admin | Dec 12, 2017 | Heating System, Home Temperature Control, HVAC, National Air Warehouse
Last summer on the blog, we talked about the potential benefits of ductless air conditioners for home remodeling projects. Now that winter is here, it’s time to talk about ductless heat pumps. Ductless heat pumps, also known as ductless mini-complete systems, are very similar to ductless air conditioners, in that they serve as standalone climate-control systems that don’t use ducting. Thus, they are ideal for living spaces in your house where the other viable option would be baseboard heating. If you are considering a ductless heat pump for part of your home, read on to learn more about the energy-saving benefits of these systems and some of the cost considerations you should think about.
The Energy-Saving Benefits of a Ductless Heat Pump
The primary explanation for why many homeowners today are choosing ductless heat pumps over traditional baseboard heating is simple: the energy savings. From the start, ductless systems are more energy efficient than traditional heating systems because the mere existence of ductwork inevitably results in a loss of energy. According to one estimate, at least 25 percent of the energy generated by the HVAC system is lost to the ductwork in the average home.
Another reason why ductless systems are more efficient is that they have inverter-driven compressors. Unlike traditional compressors in HVAC systems, which turn on and off in response to changes in the system’s needs, inverter-driven compressors simply slow down or speed up. Compressor start-up requires a lot more energy than compressor speed-up, so ductless heat pumps end up being a lot more efficient.
It is important to note that the degree of energy efficiency varies between ductless heat pump systems. You can compare systems based on their SEER ratings. Ductless heat pumps with a 14 SEER rating have good efficiency, but there are also systems on the market today with SEER ratings as high 33.
Cost Considerations for Consumers
When it comes to deciding whether or not to choose a ductless heat pump for a living space in your home, cost can be a major factor. Many consumers initially shy away from ductless heat pumps because of the relatively high upfront costs, but the significant increase in energy efficiency can make up for your initial investment in the long-term.
Moreover, in some states and localities, there are tax credits that can help offset the upfront cost of a ductless heat pump system. If you’re looking to take advantage of a tax credit, make sure to find out whether / which types of heat pumps qualify for a tax credit in your area when you are choosing a system.
National Air Warehouse offers a variety of ductless heat pump options. For more help deciding which one is right for your living space, contact us today!
by admin | Oct 31, 2017 | Heating System, Home Temperature Control, HVAC, National Air Warehouse
Happy Halloween! Today is the scariest day of the year, but with the cold months of winter on the horizon, you probably have something on your mind that’s even scarier than ghosts and ghouls: your winter energy bill. As a business owner, you need to keep the building warm in order to ensure the comfort of your customers and the productivity of your employees. As a homeowner, you want to keep your family cozy and warm during the long nights of winter. However, heating a home or business can be expensive, so you have to be strategic about the heating choices you make. Read on for some Halloween tips to help you keep your building warm this winter without dying of fright when you see your energy bill.
Tip 1: It’s no treat to get tricked about AFUE.
If you’re buying a new gas furnace for the winter, one of the things you have to consider is the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) of the system. This number is expressed as a percentage, and it is calculated by dividing the total heat output by the total energy consumed. When looking at these figures, it is important to understand what they might mean for your energy bill. In general, choosing a system with a higher AFUE can lower your energy bill. Medium-efficiency heating systems typically have AFUE ratings between 80% and 90%, while high-efficiency systems typically have ratings between 90% and 98.5%.
However, it is important to note that AFUE ratings can only be directly compared if you are looking at systems that use the same fuel type. You can’t compare the AFUE of a natural gas furnace with the AFUE of an electric furnace if you are worried about your energy bill, because the costs of natural gas and electricity differ.
Tip 2: Don’t count on the ghost in your attic to adjust your thermostat when it gets cold.
In the winter, there’s nothing worse than coming home from a long day of work to a frigid house or arriving at your business in the morning and shivering through your 9 o’clock meeting. At the same time, you don’t want to waste energy heating your house all day when no one is home or your business all night when no one is working. To resolve this problem, you can install a programmable thermostat, which allows you to set a temperature schedule for your home or business so that it is warm when you want it to be without draining your budget by heating during the off-hours. Another option is a wi-fi thermostat, which enables you to adjust your thermostat remotely.
Tip 3: Don’t be a ghoul and rule out a dual fuel packaged unit — it might make sense for you!
Dual fuel packaged units differ from traditional heat pumps in that they utilize a built-in gas furnace for supplemental heating rather than electric heat strips. Therefore, they are ideal for customers who live in places where the cost of heating with gas is lower than the cost of heating with electricity. Find out about the energy costs in your area before you rule out this option.
Here at National Air Warehouse, we are committed to providing high quality HVAC equipment at affordable prices that even a ghost wouldn’t say boo about. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you heat your home this winter!
by admin | Oct 10, 2017 | Heating System
If you are looking for a new heating system for your home or business, you might be considering a dual fuel package unit as an alternative to a package heat pump. The main difference between the two is the way that they provide supplemental heating. Unlike a traditional package heat pump, which uses electric heat strips for supplemental heating, a dual fuel package heat pump uses a built-in gas furnace.
Because a dual fuel package heat pump relies entirely on gas for supplemental heating, rather than electricity, it is ideal for locations where the cost of heating with gas is lower than the cost of heating with electricity. Read on for information that can help you determine whether or not you live in one of those locations.
States with Low Natural Gas Costs
It might make sense for you to choose a dual fuel package unit if you live in one of the states with the lowest monthly natural gas costs. According to a 2017 survey, natural gas costs were the lowest in these 10 states:
- Michigan
- Alaska
- Rhode Island
- New York
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- Utah
- Ohio
- Washington, DC
States with High Electricity Costs
Another justification for choosing a dual fuel packaged unit is if you live in a state where the monthly electricity costs are relatively high. As of 2017, the following 10 states had the highest electricity costs:
- New Mexico
- Utah
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Washington
- Washington, DC
- California
- Minnesota
- Michigan
- Oregon
Recognizing Local Differences
Looking at lists of the states with the lowest natural gas costs and the highest electricity costs, it initially seems that a dual fuel packaged unit is the only way to go in places that fall into both categories: Michigan, Illinois, and Washington, DC. You might also think that if your state is not on either one of these lists, a dual fuel packaged unit is out of the question.
However, it is important to note that electricity and natural gas costs can vary within states. Therefore, these lists can give you an idea of whether or not a dual fuel packaged unit is more financially feasible than a traditional package heat pump, but in order to be sure, you should look into your local energy costs.
National Air Warehouse offers all kind of heating systems, including dual fuel packaged units that ship for free — no matter where in the country you live. Contact us today for more information about our products!
