HEATING EFFICIENCY AND IMPROVEMENTS

A heating system operates by converting fuel into heat that flows through a house, and its efficiency is determined by how much fuel is consumed to meet heating needs. To enhance energy efficiency, it is essential to reduce air leakage.

Checking Your Heating System

Before considering a replacement or upgrade, assess the components that can be salvaged. Determine if the boiler or furnace can be improved through tuning or retrofitting, and ensure the heating ducts and water distribution pipes are in good condition. The cost of heating system work varies depending on the desired efficiency.

Addressing Air Supply for Oil and Gas Furnaces

Oil and gas furnaces require a constant supply of air for combustion and proper exhaust. Air-starvation can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Signs of inadequate ventilation include a stuffy atmosphere, lingering odors from incomplete combustion, back drafts, and smoking fireplaces. Additional ventilation may be necessary for certain heating systems or super energy-efficient houses.

Improving Heating Efficiency

If opting to change the system, consider the type of fuel based on cost and availability. For existing systems, several steps can be taken to enhance their operation:

Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the home's temperature efficiently.
Seal all joints and seams in hot air ducts with vinyl duct tape to prevent heat loss.
Insulate ducts running through unheated basements or attics using fiberglass batting or commercial duct wrap.
Keep return air grills and supply registers free from obstructions for proper airflow.
Regularly change furnace filters in forced air-systems.
Insulate exposed heating pipes with foil-faced fiberglass to improve heat retention.
Consider adding a circulating pump to hot water systems to achieve potential fuel savings of up to 30 percent.
Adjust the water temperature control (aqua stat) on the boiler during warmer seasons to prevent overheating.
For certain systems, install an automatic aqua stat to reduce water temperature as outdoor temperatures rise.
Downsizing an oil furnace by reducing the firing rate with a smaller burner nozzle can reduce fuel bills by 7 to 10 percent.
Retention head burners can be added to some furnace units, saving as much as 20 to 25 percent of fuel by optimizing oil combustion.

Inadequate air supply problems should be addressed with the help of a registered heating contractor, who can provide guidance and implement solutions to bring in outside air while complying with specific requirements based on the system type.