Learn About Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) Ratings

If you’re shopping for a new furnace for your Dacula, GA, home, you’ve likely come across your fair share of Energy Guide labels. Many people find these labels hard to understand, especially regarding Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings. Here are some things you need to know about these ratings to help you purchase the most energy-efficient furnace for your home and budget.

Why Are AFUE Ratings Important?

When purchasing a new furnace, you want to know how much it will cost to heat your home using the appliance. Although all furnaces might appear similar, not every furnace operates cost-effectively. So, if you want to save money on energy costs, knowing the AFUE of the furnace you hope to install is important. AFUE is measured in percentages between 0-100%. The higher the percentage, the more efficient the furnace when using combustion gases and the less it’ll cost you to heat your home.

If you have a tighter budget, look for a mid-efficiency furnace with a rating between 90-93%. The most efficient furnaces have ratings between 94-98.5 percent. These furnaces are pricey, but they usually pay for themselves in terms of energy usage within a few years. The minimum AFUE allowed by law is 80 percent.

Is AFUE The Same As SEER?

No, but it’s easy to get confused. Simply put, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) determines an air conditioner’s energy efficiency. AFUE ratings compare BTUs to BTUs, whereas SEER is calculated by dividing BTUs by watt-hours of electricity. BTUs is the acronym for British Thermal Units.

Benefits of a Higher AFUE Rating

The primary benefit of installing a new furnace with a high rating is that you save money on energy costs. With electric and gas prices continually rising, purchasing the most energy-efficient furnace you can afford is one of the best ways to manage rising energy rates.

Understanding energy guide labels can be tricky, but you don’t have to do it alone. Call Zack Hammonds A/C Heating Refrigeration Inc., to learn more about AFUE ratings and heating systems and to schedule professional furnace installation!