Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) is the metric used to determine the energy efficiency of furnaces. AFUE is the ratio of the annual output produced to the annual fuel consumed by the heating unit. A furnace with an AFUE of 80% turns 80% of the energy it consumes into heat and only 20% becomes waste.
What Is the Highest AFUE Rating?
The efficient gas- and oil-fired furnaces on the market can have an AFUE of 98.5%. Any experienced furnace and air conditioning repair specialist will tell you that a heating unit with such a rating is worth the investment. The reason high-efficiency systems waste almost no fuel is the unique features they possess. Unlike their predecessors, the latest furnace models use sealed combustion and have non-condensing flue gases in the second heat exchanger for greater efficiency.
Will a High AFUE Rating Ensure Reduction in Energy Consumption?
Placing a premium on a high energy-efficiency rating when tackling furnace or air conditioning installation promises tremendous savings. However, this is only half of the battle. Superior Air advises you to be mindful of your heating and cooling habits to effectively drive down your energy use. Also, invest in home projects that will help form your home’s complete thermal enclosure system to reduce heat transfer in every way.
Is Furnace Replacement the Only Solution to Better Energy Efficiency?
Having a mid-efficiency heating system with an AFUE of only 83% doesn’t always justify a furnace purchase. Observe proper furnace and air conditioning maintenance to boost the performance of your HVAC system.
In addition, consider furnace retrofits to equip a relatively old unit with modern features. For instance, installing a programmable thermostat can optimize the performance of your aging furnace and delay the need for a replacement.
Consult Superior Air to determine the most suitable measures to take to boost furnace energy efficiency. Call us at (559) 342-0023 to get your free estimate for a new installation project or to request service in Hanford, CA.
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