Why is EPA promoting energy-efficient furnaces?
Furnaces are the most commonly used residential heating system in the United States. Approximately 38 million gas furnaces are currently operating in U.S. homes and approximately 2.5 million of these furnaces are replaced annually. A 15-year-old furnace may be only 66% efficient and cost up to $730 per year to operate. A new high-efficiency furnace can be 90% efficient or greater and cost as little as $525 to operate annually. Choosing to purchase a furnace in the 90-96% efficiency range can reduce pollution and save homeowners hundreds of dollars over the equipment’s lifetime.
