How Can You Tell Your Heater is Energy Efficient?

As colorful fall leaves paint the landscape and each day is chillier than the last, homeowners in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania should ask themselves this important question—is my heater ready to warm my home efficiently this winter? Let’s explore the different ways to gauge a heater’s energy efficiency, tips to boost your existing unit’s performance, and how to determine when it’s time to upgrade to a newer, better model.

Evaluating Your Heater’s Efficiency

A heater running below its optimal efficiency may cause an unexpected spike in energy costs. Plus, using more energy than necessary increases your home’s carbon footprint. Here are four ways to determine whether your furnace is heating your home efficiently.

1.nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; Determine the AFUE Rating

Every furnace receives an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. AFUE measures the fuel your heater consumes compared to the usable heat it generates. For instance, a furnace boasting a 98 AFUE rating converts 98 percent of its fuel into heat, sending only 2 percent of the fuel out with the exhaust gases.

Unfortunately, some older units are rated a meager 56 AFUE, squandering 44 percent of the fuel they consume. To discover your heater’s AFUE, consult the user manual or check the furnace cabinet for a sticker. If you still can’t find it, research the make and model online.

2.nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; Assess the Heater’s Age

AFUE ratings are informative, but they don’t reveal the whole picture. Remember, a typical furnace lasts 15 to 20 years—but it doesn’t perform at its peak throughout its lifespan. As heating equipment ages, its efficiency may decrease by around 5 percent each year. Even well-maintained units can’t escape some degree of wear and tear. Thus, a decade-old system rated 80 AFUE might now perform at only half its original efficiency.

3.nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; Analyze Your Energy Bills

Seasonal shifts, lifestyle changes, or increased energy rates can cause your energy bills to vary. Even so, watch out for a drastic, unexplained hike in your heating bill compared to the same period from last year, as this might signal a decline in heating efficiency.

To pinpoint the root cause, track your energy consumption and account for outside influences like changing weather patterns, lapses in maintenance, or the need to seal your home’s exterior envelope. Tracking and acting on these factors can help you make smarter home heating choices.

4.nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp; Perform an Airtightness Test

To find out if high heating bills are the result of furnace problems or a leaky house, perform an airtightness test. No building is immune to drafts, but you want your home to be as airtight as possible to help your furnace operate efficiently.

The leakiest areas of a typical home include the windows, doors, and fireplaces, so focus on these spots first. To perform the test, wait for a windy day. Then, light a candle or incense stick and hold it near potentially drafty places. If the smoke swirls or the flame flickers, you can be confident that you’ve identified an area that may require sealing or repairs.

Boosting Your Heater’s Efficiency

Maintaining your furnace may not stop wear and tear entirely, but it can certainly slow it down. Here’s how to keep your heating system functioning as efficiently as possible over the years:

·?????? Replace the filter regularly: A clogged filter makes your furnace work harder, so replace it regularly to help the system breathe freely and run efficiently.

·?????? Invest in quality home insulation: Think of insulation as your home’s winter coat. A well-insulated home retains warmth, easing your heater’s workload. With less heat escaping through scantily insulated walls, ceilings, and floors, your system can maintain a more comfortable interior with less fuel.

·?????? Schedule annual inspections: Consistent check-ups are a welcome routine for your heater. HVAC specialists can identify minor issues before they escalate into major problems, ensuring longevity and peak performance.

·?????? Install a programmable thermostat: These modern devices let you set the desired temperature for different days and times based on your family’s schedule. Then, programming setback periods when you leave home avoids wasteful overheating. At the same time, automatic recovery ensures you don’t sacrifice comfort for energy savings.

·?????? Mind the vents: Obstructed vents strain your heating system by throwing off the return/supply balance. Ensure your vents remain open and unblocked to ensure efficient heat distribution.

·?????? Utilize ceiling fans: Fans aren’t just for staying cool in the summer. When set on low and in a clockwise direction during the winter, fans circulate warm air trapped near the ceiling back down into the living space, optimizing room temperature and comfort.

·?????? Seal your air ducts: Ductwork is your heater’s circulatory system. Leaks, gaps, or disconnected sections can lead to significant heat loss. Regularly inspect, seal, and insulate your ducts to substantially boost heating efficiency.

Deciding When to Upgrade Your Heater

Vintage charm doesn’t apply to heating systems. Here’s how to tell when your trusty furnace is past its prime and begging to be replaced:

·?????? Old age: A furnace nearing the 20-year mark might not have much life left, even with diligent maintenance. If you notice efficiency problems, it could be time to upgrade to a more modern system.

·?????? Soaring energy bills: A consistent, unexplained rise in heating costs could hint that your heater is laboring beyond its capacity.

·?????? Frequent repairs: If your furnace demands constant attention, it can quickly become a money pit. Investing in a new model requires an upfront investment, but it might be more economical in the long run.

·?????? Inconsistent heating: Even temperatures are a hallmark of efficient heating, while cold spots suggest your furnace is struggling.

·?????? Increased noise: Unusual sounds or noisy overall operation could indicate internal issues. A repair might be all it takes to get your furnace back up and running, but if it’s older or has experienced other problems lately, gear up for a possible replacement.

·?????? Visible rust or fraying: External signs of wear and tear, including corrosion or frayed components, may indicate internal inefficiencies or an impending breakdown.

Schedule a Heating Installation Estimate

With a proud legacy spanning over 85 years, McCrea Heating and Air Conditioning has built a reputation for expertise and genuine customer care. Our impressive number of 5-star reviews and an A+ rating from the BBB convey our commitment to excellence. Add to this our fair pricing model and financing options, and you have a trusted partner for all your heating needs. That’s the McCrea Way! For an insightful heating installation estimate in Maryland, Virginia, or Pennsylvania, please contact us at 877-481-0058 today.