An energy-efficient heater will provide the comfort you need during cold spells and ensures your energy bills don’t skyrocket unexpectedly. If you’re concerned about the performance of your heating systems, the question arises: How can you determine if your heater is energy efficient? In today’s post from Casper Plumbing & Heating are three ways to learn about its performance and what you can do about it.
1. Understanding the AFUE Rating
One of the first steps in gauging your heater’s efficiency is understanding its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This percentage measures the amount of fuel converted into heat in comparison to the fuel consumed. The closer this figure is to 100%, the more efficient your heating system is deemed to be. Modern heaters boasting high AFUE ratings not only ensure lower utility bills but also contribute to reducing your household’s carbon footprint. It is recommended to look for heaters with an AFUE rating of 90% or higher for supreme efficiency.
2. Keeping Tabs on Your Heater’s Age
A frequently overlooked aspect when assessing energy efficiency is the age of your heating system. Generally, heaters have a productive lifespan of 15 to 20 years, assuming regular maintenance. However, it’s important to note that as a heater ages, its efficiency naturally declines. This deterioration can be attributed to wear and tear over time. If your heating unit is approaching or has surpassed its expected lifespan, it may be wise to consider a replacement. Opting for a newer model could significantly enhance your home’s heating efficiency.
3. Regular Maintenance and Energy Bills Examination
Regular high efficiency water heater maintenance is pivotal in sustaining your heater’s performance. A well-maintained heater not only runs more efficiently but also prolongs the system’s lifespan. As part of this maintenance, examining your energy bills for any noticeable increases without a corresponding rise in usage can provide insights into your heater’s efficiency. An unexplained spike in costs could indicate that your heater is working harder than necessary to maintain comfortable temperatures, signifying a drop in efficiency. Maintenance checks provide an opportunity to clean or replace parts that might be causing inefficiency, thus ensuring your heater runs smoothly.
Not sure if your heaters are up to par in performance? Have it evaluated by professional heater technicians at Casper Plumbing & Heating. Call us today at (617) 823-8539 or visit our website to get started.