Efficiency is one of the most important things to consider when sizing up furnaces and boilers. The higher the rating, the more fuel the unit turns into heat. In addition to a reduction in energy consumption, decreased pollution is another key benefit of using high-efficiency heating equipment.
 Furnace or Boiler Efficiency.jpg "Understanding (and Improving) Furnace or Boiler Efficiency")
What Is AFUE?
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) is the ratio of the appliance’s annual energy output compared to the total fuel it uses throughout a typical year. HVAC experts would say that this is the standard rating used to assess the efficiency of furnaces and boilers in America.
Expressed in a range of 1 to 100, which directly reflects the percentage of natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity the unit converts into heat. An AFUE of 95% means the appliance has been tested to turn 95% of fuel into energy, and only 5% is wasted.
According to the Department of Energy, old and low-efficiency furnaces and boilers have an AFUE of 56% to 70%. Mid-efficiency units have a rating of 80% to 83%, while the rating of the best-performing models is between 90% and 98.5%.
Should You Retrofit or Replace?
The simplest way to boost the performance of your heating system is to buy a high-efficiency unit. However, it’s not always worth the expense. This is especially true if your current appliance isn’t scheduled for replacement until a couple of years.
Retrofitting your existing furnace or boiler can be a viable option. Also, upgrades don’t necessarily concern the heating unit itself. Overhauling your distribution equipment (ductwork, radiator, or radiant heating system) or installing a programmable thermostat could be enough to elevate the efficiency of your appliance.
Strategize With the Authority on HVAC
Switching from a furnace to a boiler, or vice versa, isn’t as straightforward as you think; it would most likely be a complete HVAC revamp. Talk about your heating needs with Bartlett Heating and Air Conditioning to figure out the most sensible route to take. Call us at (630) 372-7640 now or fill out this form to get your free estimate. We serve Bartlett, IL.
