The most exciting recent advance in indoor heating technology is the development of special high-efficiency systems that make maximum use of their fuel supply while returning exceptional levels of warmth. The U.S. Department of Energy recognizes superior efficiency heating systems with the ENERGY STAR label. But many heaters go even beyond the DOE’s requirements.
We’ll show you the benefits of a high-efficiency heating installation in Orlando, FL. If you have more questions, talk to our NATE-certified technicians at Downtown Air & Heat today.
How a high-efficiency heater benefits you (and the planet)
The most common kind of high-efficiency heating system is the condensing furnace. Instead of using a single heat exchanger, a condensing furnace uses two: the second exchanger harnesses the liquid vapor exhaust from the first exchanger and condenses it, releasing further heat and reducing the amount of energy waste. The tiny amount of exhaust remaining then goes up a flue made of plastic, which is much smaller than the standard exhaust flue.
Here’s how much a difference this makes in fuel use: Where a standard weatherized gas furnace has an AFUE rating of 81% (according to the U.S. Department of Energy), a condensing furnace can score anywhere from and AFUE of 90% all the way up to 98.5%—which means only 1.5% of the fuel ends up as waste.
How much can you save with a high-efficiency furnace? Using a hypothetical situation of moving from a 79% AFUE furnace to a 97% AFUE condensing furnace, a homeowner can save approximately $400 per year off heating costs. High-efficiency furnaces cost more to install, but at this level of savings, the furnace will pay for itself in around five years. With a life expectancy close to 20 years, the furnace will end up providing tremendous savings.
Another benefit to consider: a high-efficiency furnace is better for the environment. Because these furnaces use up almost all of their natural gas fuel supply, exhaust emissions are reduce to a minimum. That means less greenhouse gases released to the atmosphere.
See if a high-efficiency furnace will work for you
Even with the potential savings of high-efficiency furnaces, there are a few caveats. First, as mentioned above, they cost more to install. Second, they require special attention for maintenance. You should have regular maintenance for any furnace, but it’s especially important for condensing furnaces in order for them to maintain efficiency. Third, depending on your home, a high-efficiency furnace may not be your ideal heating choice. Always consult with HVAC experts before you make a decision for new heating installation.
Call our high-efficiency systems experts Downtown Air & Heat to talk about the possibilities for installing one of these systems in your home. We can take care of your heating installation in Orlando, FL… whatever system will work best for you.
