In order for heating efficiency to reach optimal levels, it’s important that homeowners understand how systems in the home work together to create ideal conditions within which a furnace can work. Your furnace, thermostat and ductwork are three such systems, and each one plays a unique and critical role in the efficient delivery of heat.

Thermostat

Once the thermostat is switched to “on,” and the temperature is set higher than the temperature in the home, the furnace is given the signal to cycle on and begin working.

• Use: You want to set your thermostat to a temperature that’s low enough for energy savings but high enough to ensure your comfort. Using a programmable thermostat can help you to ensure regular temperature setbacks for energy savings while you’re out of the home, without sacrificing comfort.
• Care: Installing a thermostat where it receives direct sunlight will create false readings; install yours in a shaded location.

Furnace

Once the furnace cycles on, fuel is sent to the burner to create heat. The furnace blower then blows the heated air out of the system and into the ductwork.

• Use: Investing in a system with a high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating will get the best results. High-efficiency systems start at 90 AFUE.
• Care: The single best thing homeowners can do to ensure heating efficiency is to provide regular maintenance for the furnace. If it’s been a while since your furnace was last checked, schedule one today.

Ductwork

The ductwork is your home’s air-delivery system. Thanks to pipes that branch throughout the home, each room is able to receive conditioned air.

• Use: Efficient ductwork is dependent upon a balanced supply and return of air. Therefore, its initial design and installation is critical, as well as ensuring that it doesn’t leak.
• Care: Every few years, have a professional assess your ductwork, as leaks can contribute to significant energy losses. An expert can also evaluate your ductwork’s airflow balance to ensure that your home is as comfortable as possible.

Think your furnace, thermostat or ductwork need some tweaking? Contact the experts at Bennett Sheet Metal & Heatingtoday to help enhance your comfort and energy savings!

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about furnaces and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Bennett Sheet Metal services Courtenay, BC and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!      

Energy efficiency image via Shutterstock