Environmentally-friendly projects often include discussions on reducing carbon emissions. Carbon emission refers to carbon dioxide or CO2. It is the compound that animals and plants produce via respiration and what heating systems release into the atmosphere. It is part of the natural heat generation process. However, using a low-efficiency heating unit does more harm than good as it emits a high level of CO2 into the environment. Furthermore, low-efficiency units cost more throughout their service life, which entails dealing with a high level of repairs and, eventually, a heating system replacement. Fortunately, you can find a highly energy efficient heating system, and it can provide you with comfort, safety, and security.
In this article, we discuss how to determine a heating system’s efficiency. Likewise, we discuss ways to reduce your carbon footprint during the heating season.
Heating systems are a primary contributor to the carbon emissions that build up within the atmosphere of the Earth. The best thing you can do to help reduce emissions is to have a central furnace or boiler with a high-efficiency rating. The term “AFUE”, or annual fuel utilization efficiency, measures a heating system’s efficiency. It is a measurement of how well a system converts fuel energy to heat energy over 12 years.
In addition, AFUE reflects the system’s heat output ratio over the total fuel consumption. Systems with a high AFUE rating mean that they are more efficient. For instance, a heating unit with a 90% AFUE rating can use as much as 90% of its fuel to produce heat. The other 10% is released into the atmosphere, typically via a chimney or vent.
The highest AFUE ratings in heating systems are usually awarded to furnaces and boilers, with ratings ranging from 95% to 98.5%. The downside is that you need to spend a little more on these systems compared to those with lower AFUE ratings. However, they are more cost-effective in the long run as they cost less to operate.
Many low-efficiency heating units have AFUE ratings that range from 55% to 70%. They also typically need a continuous pilot light to operate. They also come with bulky heat exchangers and features that ensure combustible gases flow safely.
Some moderately efficient systems have AFUE ratings of about 80% to 83%. These units typically don’t have a pilot light but use an electronic ignition instead. They also utilize exhaust fans for the regulation of the air and gases flow.
On the other hand, high-efficiency systems are equipped with sealed combustion components. They also use two heat exchangers for increased efficiency and flue gas condensation.
Age will still catch up to your heating system regardless of how well it is built. Older systems will eventually fall to wear-and-tear from regular use. Even well-maintained units will experience the breakdown of parts, which will need to be repaired or replaced. Older units are also not equipped with the same design and HVAC technology that result in higher efficiency that is seen in newer models. Modern heating systems are built and designed to produce heat more effectively. They also consume less fuel than older systems.
When you have a high-efficiency heating system in place, you can further reduce your home’s carbon emission levels and save energy costs. Follow these simple steps:
Air leaks allow warm air to escape outside and let cold air inside. Common leak spots include doors, windows, joints, holes, and cracks. Inefficient insulation is also an issue that should be remedied immediately before the cold season begins. In most cases, air leak problems only need simple solutions. Bear in mind that the earlier that you locate these problematic areas, the faster you can fix them.
Programmable thermostats allow you to have better control over indoor temperatures. You can program the thermostat settings to achieve optimum efficiency and maximum comfort. For instance, you can set the system to lower the temperature when you leave your house and increase it a few minutes before you come home. You can even program the system to keep running or switch off automatically when nobody is home.
Clogged air filters cause your HVAC systems to work inefficiently. The air filters’ job is to trap contaminants in the air so that they do not get distributed throughout your home. These accumulate as time passes so that the warm air cannot pass through the filters. Forced-air heating systems require ample airflow to function properly. You might have noticed that your heating system becomes inefficient when it has dirty air filters. Ensure that the filter is cleaned or replaced regularly so that your heating system remains in tiptop shape.
Lowering the temperature setting by one or two degrees will help reduce your home’s energy consumption. It will also prevent your system from working too hard. Reducing your system’s workload will also keep it healthy and in great shape. Wearing a few layers of clothes while you stay indoors will help a lot in keeping you warm during the winter.
We undoubtedly need to know how to use our energy sources carefully and more responsibly. Our actions today will have consequences in the future. Therefore, it is always better to choose highly efficient heating systems to help reduce how much pollution we contribute to the atmosphere. It will also help promote a cleaner environment and save on costs in the long term. It is undoubtedly a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Tower Energy provides superior HVAC services in Hartford County, Connecticut. Our team of professionally certified technicians can provide you with excellent heating and cooling repairs, maintenance, installations, replacements, and more. Each of our friendly techs has the skills, knowledge, and experience to service your HVAC system properly.
Our company guarantees highly affordable HVAC service prices in the area. Our tune-up services can help increase comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your home’s heating and cooling costs. We can also recommend the most suitable HVAC repair or replacement for your home that works within your budget. Our work always comes with a guarantee because your satisfaction is important to us. Schedule a service appointment by calling Tower Energy today. We offer free, in-home estimates.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
