Reducing Your Carbon Emissions Through High-Efficiency Heating Systems
Carbon emissions are usually the gauge of success when people discuss environmentally friendly plans. The term “carbon emission” refers to carbon dioxide (CO2), the compound animals and plants emit through respiration. Our heating systems also release the same compound into the atmosphere. This is part of its natural heat generation process. However, continuously using a low-efficiency heating system does more harm than good. It will also lead to higher expenses in the future because of HVAC repairs and replacements. The good news is that you can utilize an energy efficient heating system for comfort, safety, and security.
Reducing Your Carbon Emissions Through High-Efficiency Heating Systems
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Heating systems are a primary contributor to the carbon emissions level that build up within the Earth’s atmosphere. Help reduce the emissions by choosing a high-efficiency central furnace or boiler. The efficiency of heating systems is measured in Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE. It measures how well the system converts fuel energy to heat energy over 12 years.
AFUE also includes the ratio of the system’s heat output to the total amount of fuel it uses. Higher AFUE ratings mean higher system efficiency. For instance, a heating system with a 90% AFUE rating can utilize as much as 90% of its fuel to produce heat. The remaining 10% is released into the atmosphere via a chimney or vent.
Heating systems with the highest AFUE ratings are furnaces or boilers. The AFUE ratings can range from 95% to 98.5%. The bad news is that these systems may be a little bit more expensive than those with lower AFUE ratings. Fortunately, they have lower operating costs, so you save money in the long run.
Identifying A High-Efficiency Heating System
Most low-efficiency systems have around 55% to 70% AFUE ratings. They also typically need a continuous pilot light to operate. They are also equipped with a heavy heat exchanger and a feature that ensures that combustible gasses safely flow.
Some moderately efficient models have an AFUE rating ranging from 80% to 83%. These systems typically don’t have a pilot light and use an electronic ignition instead. They may also have exhaust fans to regulate the flow of gasses and air.
On the other hand, high-efficiency systems, such as variable-speed furnaces, have a sealed combustion component and two heat exchangers to condense flue gasses and improve their efficiency.
Reasons Older Heating Systems Aren’t As Efficient As New Systems
A heating system may be well-built, but age will still catch up to it. Older systems fall to wear and tear from regular use. It may be maintained well, but some parts will eventually break or get damaged, needing repair or replacement. Older systems are also not equipped with the technology that provides the design and features newer models have to increase their efficiencies. Modern models are designed and built to ensure that they are better at producing adequate heat and more reliable fuel consumption than older systems.
Keeping Your Carbon Emission Levels Under Control
Once you have a high-efficiency heating system, you can further reduce your carbon emission levels and have higher energy cost savings by following these steps:
Sealing Air Leaks
Air leaks are known for releasing warm air and letting cold air in from outside. Common leak areas are doors, windows, cracks, holes, and joints. Inefficient insulation is also an issue that should be resolved as soon as possible, preferably before the cold season. In most cases, air leak problems need simple solutions. The earlier these problematic spots are found, the faster they can be solved.
Installing Programmable Thermostats
Programmable thermostats provide better indoor temperature control. You can program its settings to achieve maximum efficiency when and where you need to feel most comfortable. For instance, you can set the system to lower the temperature when you’re about to leave your house and increase it minutes before you come back. You can also set it so the system turns off automatically or doesn’t run continuously when you aren’t at home.
Replacing HVAC Air Filters Regularly
HVAC systems with clogged air filters stop running efficiently. Air filters catch tiny particles from the air. As time passes, the dirt builds up that warm air can’t pass through. You may have noticed your heating system becoming inefficient when it has a dirty air filter. Ensure the filter is cleaned or changed regularly to keep the heating system in excellent condition.
Lower Thermostat Settings In Winter
It may seem like a bad idea, but reducing the temperature by one or two degrees will significantly help lower your energy use. It also helps ensure your heating system remains healthy, as it doesn’t have to work too hard. Just wear a few layers of clothes to help keep you warm inside your home in the winter.
Conclusion
It is clear that we need to learn how to use our energy sources responsibly and carefully. After all, our actions now will have consequences in the future. Using high-efficiency heating systems reduces how much pollution we contribute, helps promote a cleaner environment, and even saves on cost over time. This is truly a winning situation for everyone.
Call R.F. Ohl For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
R.F. Ohl provides high-quality heating and cooling services in the Poconos and the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. Rest assured, we have the best professionally certified technicians with the knowledge and experience to conduct accurate HVAC system services. All our skilled techs can provide excellent heating and cooling maintenance, installations, replacements, and repairs.
R.F. Ohl guarantees to have one of the most affordable HVAC service prices in the locality. Our tune-up services help increase your home’s energy efficiency and comfort while lowering your heating and cooling expenses. If you need to repair or replace your HVAC system, we can recommend the best and most budget-friendly one for your home. Your satisfaction is always our priority, so all our work comes with a guarantee. Book a service appointment and give R.F. Ohl a call today. We offer free, in-home estimates.
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