BLOG
How to Tell if Your Furnace Efficiency is Too Low
If your furnace is producing less heat or increasing the cost of your utility bill, there could be several contributing factors. It is important to remember that furnaces should operate at peak performance in order to get maximum output. If you suspect a problem then it’s important to locate the source of the problem.
A great resource is to check the AFUE rating. The AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) compares the amount of heat your furnace is producing with the amount of energy that the heat requires. If the AFUE number is 90, that means 90% of energy is utilized, while 10% is being wasted.
Consider these common signs that your furnace’s efficiency is low:
1. Your utility bill is increasing
If you notice your energy bill steadily climbing, there is a good chance that your furnace is functioning poorly or not at all.
2. Heat takes a long time to spread
If your furnace takes hours to kick on, and your home is not heating up, something is out of place.
3. Your filter is due for a change
Air filters should be changed every 6 months. If it has been longer than that, your furnace will not perform as efficiently as it could.
4. You haven’t scheduled routine maintenance
Scheduling an annual checkup allows budding problems to be located and eliminated, therefore saving you money in the long run.
5. Your furnace is 12 years old or more
Like all of us, furnaces lose steam with age. If your furnace is old, it might be time for a replacement.
How to improve the output of your furnace.
Once you have diagnosed the problem, you can implement the following steps to increase furnace performance and efficiency:
1. Schedule regular HVAC examinations.
It is best to allow a professional to locate problems at the source and fix them before the issue gets more complicated and more expensive.
2. Change the filter as often as needed.
Again, filters should be typically be changed every 6 months; however, if needed, don’t be afraid to do it sooner.
3. Invest in a smart thermostat.
Smart thermostats allow you to pre-program temperatures. A great way to save money is to lower the heat at night or when you are out of the house.
Maintaining an efficient furnace does not have to break the bank. Be smart with your savings by calling an HVAC technician and scheduling your routine checkup today,
