What are the Efficiency Requirements for ENERGY STAR Certified Gas Furnaces in Different Regions?
ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces must meet specific efficiency requirements to earn the prestigious ENERGY STAR label. These requirements vary depending on the region of the United States where the furnace will be installed.
In the U.S. North region, ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces must have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating of 95% or greater. This means that these furnaces can convert 95% or more of the fuel they consume into usable heat, making them highly efficient.
For the U.S. South region, the AFUE requirement is slightly lower at 90% or greater. This regional variation takes into account the different heating needs and climate conditions in the southern half of the country.
What are the Regional Variations in the U.S. North and South Regions?
The U.S. North region includes states such as Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
The U.S. South region includes states such as Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
How Much Can You Save with an ENERGY STAR Certified Gas Furnace?
The energy cost savings associated with ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces can be significant, depending on the region.
In the U.S. North region, these furnaces can save up to 15% more energy compared to baseline models, resulting in an average annual savings of $80 in energy costs.
For the U.S. South region, ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces can save up to 11% more energy compared to standard models, leading to an average annual savings of $30 in energy costs.
What Specific Labels are Used for ENERGY STAR Certified Gas Furnaces?
ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces are distinguished by the use of specific labels to indicate their regional certification.
In the U.S. North region, these furnaces are labeled with the standard ENERGY STAR logo, signifying their compliance with the higher efficiency requirements.
For the U.S. South region, ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces are labeled with a unique “U.S. South” ENERGY STAR logo. This distinguishes them from the furnaces certified for the northern region, ensuring that consumers can easily identify the appropriate model for their location.
Conclusion
ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces offer a significant opportunity for homeowners to save on energy costs while also reducing their environmental impact. By understanding the regional efficiency requirements and the associated cost savings, consumers can make informed decisions when selecting a new gas furnace for their home.
Whether you live in the U.S. North or South region, investing in an ENERGY STAR certified gas furnace can provide long-term benefits in terms of energy efficiency and financial savings. By choosing the right model for your location, you can maximize the performance and cost-effectiveness of your home heating system.
Remember to look for the ENERGY STAR label and the regional designation when shopping for a new gas furnace, as these indicators will ensure that you are selecting a highly efficient and cost-saving appliance.
References:
- ENERGY STAR Furnaces Key Product Criteria: https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_cooling/furnaces/key_product_criteria
- ENERGY STAR Furnaces V4.0 Program Requirements: https://www.energystar.gov/sites/default/files/asset/document/ENERGY%20STAR%20Furnaces%20Version%204.0%20Program%20Requirements.pdf
- ENERGY STAR Furnaces: https://www.energystar.gov/products/heating_cooling/furnaces
