When you’re shopping around for a heater, there are different brands and different models and even different types of heaters – from gas to electric and even ductless. Choosing the right heater is very important, but one of the most important factors to consider is the AFUE rating that tells you how energy efficient a heater is.
Whether you need furnace installation or furnace service in Flowood, MS, our team is here to help. When it comes to choosing a furnace, we can talk to you about all of your different options and help you choose the best heater for your home and family. You can keep reading to learn more about AFUE ratings and why energy efficiency is so important when selecting a heater.
What Is an AFUE rating?
AFUE is short for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. The AFUE rating system is a standardized way to compare energy efficiency of heaters. After all, there are many different types, brands, and models of heaters. Choosing between gas or electric is just the foundation.
This can make it difficult to determine which type of heater is the most efficient at heating at home. AFUE ratings offer a way for you to do research about different types of heaters and compare them with efficiency at the top of your mind.
How is an AFUE rating measured?
The AFUE scale goes up to 100, with 100 being completely energy efficient. A heater with a rating of 100 would mean that 100% of the energy that a heater consumes goes directly to creating heat for your home. Inevitably, most heaters do use some energy that gets lost during the heating process and does not transfer directly into heat.
In the United States, the minimum efficiency rating is 80. That means all heaters that get installed in homes and businesses must be at least 80% efficient. A heater with an AFUE rating of 90 or higher is considered a high-efficiency heater. This means that the heater is losing 10% or less energy during operation.
90% or more of the energy consumed goes directly into creating heat for your home, lowering your overall energy costs. The less energy that is required for operation, the more money that you can save on your monthly energy costs. Plus, you have to consider that a highly efficient heater will also take on less wear and tear since it won’t have to work as hard to heat your home.
Choosing a New Heater
We know that trying to pick a new heater for your home when it’s time can be an overwhelming process. There are so many options on the market, and you want to know that you’re making the right choice. Inevitably, high-efficiency heaters are slightly more expensive than less efficient heaters. However, the potential energy savings can easily add up to balance out that additional upfront cost.
We are always here to help. We can offer an in-home assessment and talk to you about what you like and don’t like about your existing heater to help you select a new one that best fits your needs and expectations.
Contact AirSouth Cooling and Heating today to schedule an appointment for furnace installation.
