Heating Energy Efficiency: Furnaces VS Heat Pumps
While winter temperatures in the Northern California are on the mild side, it can still be quite costly to heat your home. Replacing your existing system with something newer and more energy efficient is one way to reduce your monthly heating costs, while also improving indoor air quality and overall comfort.
Below is some important information put together by your Sacramento-area heating repair experts regarding the energy efficiency of two common types of home heating systems: furnaces and heat pumps.
Here’s what you need to know:
What is energy efficiency?
Energy efficiency refers to the amount of energy that is required to operate your heating system. While your system has a maximum efficiency measure, there are a number of other things that could affect its efficiency. Dirty filters, unmaintained systems, and even age can affect the operation and efficiency of your system, therefore costing you more than is necessary in heating costs. Expend less energy, and save money on your monthly utility bills.
Furnace Efficiency
Furnace efficiency is measured by the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). This measure is expressed as a percentage. Gas fired furnaces tend to have higher AFUE than oil fired furnaces. Fuel availabilities in your area may affect your decision when choosing between a gas or oil furnace. High quality furnaces of today have efficiencies ranging from 82.7-96.7% AFUE, which is likely significantly higher than the efficiency of your existing system.
Heat Pump Efficiency
Heat pump efficiency is measured by the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). A higher HSPF indicates a higher level of efficiency. Heat pumps tend to be a more energy efficient option than furnaces, and add the extra benefit of performing cooling functions in the summer. We offer a number of highly efficient heat pumps with 9.2 HSPF at the highest.
Which system is a better fit? If you are thinking about replacing your existing heating system, it is recommended that you contact your Sacramento-area heating repair company for personalized, expert advice. Call Clarke and Rush today to schedule an installation estimate at your convenience!
