Heating Measures

1. Unoccupied Temperature Heating Set Back
   Set-back thermostats save energy by automatically setting back the temperature in a space for a scheduled unoccupied time. For many locations, this thermostat will pay for itself in savings in a very short time. Setting back the temperature saves heating energy by reducing building losses and also may save on the pumping or fan energy if the heating equipment cycles. Savings from the installation of set-back thermostats is dependent on the number of hours the temperature can be set back and the set- back temperature. Therefore, the more hours per week the temperature can be set back, the greater the savings. Scheduling thermostats properly will save energy without any loss in comfort. Also, many of these thermostats have the ability to estimate the necessary warm-up time to help ensure that space is heated to the proper temperature when desired. This feature saves additional energy, since it will adjust the heat-up time as the seasons/weather change. Since set-back thermostats come in a variety of types, depending on the existing heating system, you should consult your heating service company to ensure proper thermostat type and installation.
   
   
2. Turn off Exhaust Fans
   Many exhaust fans operate continuously even though they might not need to. If code permits, it is important to turn them off when they are not necessary. This will not only save on the fan power but also on the heating and cooling of the air being exhausted. Small bathroom fans could be wired to the lights to operate only when lights are on, or a clock can be installed to turn off exhaust fans when the space is not occupied. Consult your local building officials to ensure this measure complies with local codes.
   
   
3. Buy Efficient Equipment
   In most cases, replacing major heating equipment for energy savings is not economical due to the large capital expense required. On the other hand, if it’s time to replace the equipment anyway, it is usually cost effective to install the energy-efficient model. Heating equipment is rated with one of two seasonal ratings: the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) for heat pumps, and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for fossil-fuel systems.

   The HSPF represents heating performance over an entire season and is equal to the total BTUs of heating delivered, divided by the total watt-hours of power used during a representative heating season. The more efficient ratings are from 8.0 to 16.4.

   The AFUE is the expected average efficiency of equipment of the entire heating season. It is equal to the BTUs of heating output, divided by the BTUs of fuel input during a representative heating season. The more efficient ratings are from 84% to 97%.