Not all furnaces use the same technology to generate heat. While they all consume energy to generate heat, some of them consume less energy than others. High-efficiency furnaces are recognized for their energy efficiency. If you currently have a standard furnace, you might be wondering whether you should upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace.
The Basics of a High-Efficiency Furnace
Also known as a condensing furnace, a high-efficiency furnace is a type of gas furnace that’s characterized by an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or higher. All gas furnaces have an AFUE rating. Expressed as a percentage, it represents how much heat a gas furnace can produce per dollar of energy consumed.
Standard gas furnaces typically have an AFUE rating of about 80%. This means they can convert about four-fifths of the energy they consume into heat. High-efficiency furnaces have an AFUE rating of 90% or higher. They are designed with an emphasis on efficiency, which allows them to produce more heat while consuming less energy.
Benefits of a High-Efficiency Furnace
You will save money on your heating costs by upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace. This is important because heating is one of the main sources of energy consumption in residential homes as well as commercial buildings.
High-efficiency furnaces still consume energy. They are gas furnaces that, like all gas furnaces, run on natural gas. High-efficiency furnaces are more efficient at converting energy into heat. The end result is lower heating costs during the winter.
While there are exceptions, most high-efficiency furnaces don’t have a pilot light. Instead, they feature an electrically powered ignitor. This means you don’t have to worry about maintaining a pilot light.
Another benefit of upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace is cleaner air. High-efficiency furnaces aren’t just more efficient; they promote cleaner air by ensuring that the heated air is properly contained. They don’t suffer from air leaks because the sealed design traps the heated air, resulting in increased efficiency and cleaner overall air.
High-efficiency furnaces typically cost more than standard furnaces. With an AFUE rating of 90% or higher, they are well worth the investment. We can help you choose a high-efficiency furnace in an appropriate size for your home.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
