Choosing A Heating System For Your Home

If you are considering updating your current heating system in your home, there are several factors that you will need to consider. Obviously the type of fuel you want to use will be paramount, along with other factors such as overall cost, efficiency and size. If you are just looking at updating your current system using the same energy source, then the last three factors will be what you want to focus on, especially efficiency.

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)

AFUE is the efficiency rating a furnace has and all new furnaces should have this rating. The higher the number, the more efficient a system will be. If your current heating source is older, there may be a large difference in the energy it uses compared to newer models. For example, furnaces being sold today must have an AFUE of 80% or higher, ranging up to 96%. This can translate into money saved. If your old heating system is only rated at a 65% AFUE and you install a new system at 95%, the difference, 30%, is what you may be able to save in heating costs.

Fan Motor

Another consideration in the efficiency factor is the type of fan motor that the furnace has. Electrically communicated motors are much more efficient than the standard motor. Fan motors blow the warmed air through the ductwork and the electrically communicated motors are much more efficient and can save hundreds of dollars in energy each year.

 While overall cost is always a factor, make sure you are calculating the savings of a more efficient, albeit more expensive system. It may mean a larger initial purchase but considering the lifespan of a quality furnace, it may be a better-cost option in the long run.

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