3 Ways to Determine if a Heater is Energy Efficient
Heater efficiency varies by fuel type, with electric heaters generally being more efficient than gas, and efficiency ratings like the energy factor indicate how effectively a heater converts energy into heat.
A heater can consume a significant amount of household energy. Heaters vary in type and efficiency, so it is important to understand the options to save energy and money. The area in a house where the heater is located often accounts for up to 40% of the heater's overall energy use.
Typically, a heater is responsible for 15 to 30 percent of the entire home's energy consumption, making careful selection crucial to ensure optimal performance and cost savings over its lifetime.
The efficiency of a heater is greatly influenced by the type of fuel it uses. For instance, electric heaters tend to be more energy-efficient than gas heaters, with electric resistance heating being more efficient than convection heating and convection heating more efficient than radiant heating. Before purchasing, always check the heater's energy efficiency rating. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the heater will be. The energy factor, indicating how close the heater comes to converting 100 percent of the input energy to heat output, is also crucial. For example, a heater with an energy factor rating of 0.90 is 90 percent efficient, drawing 10 watts and outputting about 9 watts as heat.
When choosing an energy-efficient heater, consider the following:
Examine the Label
An efficient heater will display a label indicating the yearly operating cost. A more efficient model will show a lower operating cost.
Compare the Energy Guide
This government-mandated label provides efficiency comparisons between appliances, listing their electricity or gas usage and annual operating costs. Look for the Energy Star rating.
Consider the Size
The appropriate size is vital. Oversized units cycle on and off more repeatedly, consuming more energy over time. It's best to choose a heater that fits the space's heating requirements.
For the best energy savings, opt for a heater with a high Energy Star rating, which can be up to 40 percent more efficient than standard models and may qualify for federal tax credits.
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