Here in Wisconsin, we rely on heat from our furnace from fall right into the spring. With our furnaces running essentially nonstop for half the year, it’s important to know how much of that heat is being produced efficiently and how much is lost in the process. In this blog, the pros at Advanced Comfort Systems break down how you can tell if you have an energy-efficient furnace.
Find Its Efficiency Rating
When reviewing your furnace’s energy efficiency, the main term to know is AFUE—Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. AFUE is a percentage that explains how much fuel, whether it’s electric or gas, is converted into heat. Modern furnaces range from 78 percent to an industry-best 98 percent. If your furnace has an AFUE of 90 percent or higher, that’s considered a high-efficiency furnace.
Like most appliances, your furnace should have a yellow Energy Guide sticker that will show you its exact AFUE. If you can’t find it, you can also check your owner’s manual or look it up online using your system’s make, model, and serial number.
Does Your Furnace Take Too Long to Heat?
If your furnace is constantly running but your house isn’t getting any warmer—or worse, the system is blowing cold air—it’s a sign of inefficiency. The problem could be as simple as a wrong thermostat setting, but it could also be caused by restricted airflow or a more serious issue.
If this is the case, get in touch with Advanced Comfort’s experts to fix the problem and restore both heat and energy efficiency.
Have Your Energy Bills Increased?
While the cost of fuel does vary, large increases in your energy bills are another symptom of an inefficient furnace. Take a look at your year-over-year utilities—if your energy bill is getting out of control, it might be time for one of our HVAC pros to investigate.
Take Other Efficiency Factors Into Account
You could have a furnace with the highest AFUE rating on the market, but that’s still only one factor in ensuring efficiency in your home. If your windows, doors, or ducts have leaks, or if your insulation is subpar, your furnace will still have to work harder than it should to overcome those obstacles.
Get a Second Opinion From Advanced Comfort
Advanced Comfort can help you tell whether you have an energy-efficient furnace or if it needs some attention. We can analyze your heating system and provide unbiased recommendations and everyday tips.
Call our helpful team today to see how you can save on your energy bills: 920-564-2333.
