That’s what you’ll learn from this blog post. We’ll show you the trifecta of furnace energy efficiency to get maximum money savings.
Choose an energy efficient furnace
After a qualified HVAC contractor determines what size furnace you need to install, you need to decide the level of energy efficiency you want from your furnace.
A furnace’s energy efficiency is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This measures what percentage of fuel is actually used to heat your home.
For example, an average furnace has an AFUE of 80%. 80% AFUE means that, of the fuel used, only 80% of it actually heats your home and 20% of the fuel is lost in the combustion process. In other words, for every dollar spent on fuel, only $.80 of it is used to heat your home.
Of course, a more energy efficiency furnace will cost more. But choosing a higher efficiency furnace can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. So you can easily make up the difference in furnace cost and then some.
You can discover how much money you can save by using the furnace savings calculator under “Furnace Resources” on Energy Star’s website.
Change your furnace’s filter
Your furnace has an air filter just like your car does. And it serves the same purpose: to keep out dust, dirt and other contaminants.
A dirty furnace filter slows down airflow from the furnace. So if your furnace’s filter is dirty, your furnace has to work harder to heat your home. This uses more energy than necessary and therefore costs you more money as well.
Do this: check your furnace at least once a month. If it’s dirty, then change it. Your filter needs to be changed at least every three months. But you should check it every month and replace it when it is visibly dirty.
Get an annual tune-up
Finally, you need to get a tune-up from a professional heating company at least once a year.
Your heating system’s health determines the maximum energy efficiency of your furnace. So just because it’s working, does not mean that it’s working as well as it could.
Not only that, but a tune-up will extend the life of your heating system and reduce inconvenient furnace breakdowns (who wants their furnace to break down in the middle of winter?).
Getting help with the energy efficiency trifecta
If you use these three keys, you’ll save a ton of money on your utility bill and prevent annoying furnace breakdowns.
Need help determining what size and efficiency level you need, changing your furnace filter, or tuning up your furnace? Contact the Framingham-area heating specialists online or call 508-858-5476.