The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has cemented new energy efficiency standards for residential gas furnaces, in line with mandates from Congress. These furnace efficiency standards are anticipated to yield a remarkable $1.5 billion in yearly savings for households on utility bills while significantly minimizing greenhouse gas emissions. Come late 2028, these energy efficiency standards will necessitate non-weatherized gas furnaces, including those in mobile homes, to maintain an annual fuel utilization efficiency of 95 percent.
This move will enhance energy conservation and optimize residential heating. Over the span of 30 years, these standards will likely translate to a cumulative savings of $24.8 billion on energy bills for consumers and dramatically reduce carbon and methane emissions that exacerbate the climate crisis. This milestone reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s unwavering commitment to reducing utility expenses for U.S. families, bolstering energy independence, and fostering healthier, safer communities.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm articulated, “In line with Congress’s guidance, the DOE is persistently evaluating and establishing energy standards for household appliances, including residential furnaces. Our primary aim is to alleviate the financial burdens on working-class families by curtailing energy consumption and significantly reducing harmful domestic pollutants.” She further emphasized the current administration’s dedication, led by President Biden, to ensure cost savings and healthier communities for Americans through robust energy efficiency standards.
The last revamp of these furnace efficiency standards took place in 2007. With the updated standards set for late 2028, residential gas furnaces will be required to have a minimum annual fuel utilization efficiency of 95 percent. This means nearly all of the gas utilized will be converted into heat, showcasing a significant reduction in energy waste. Modern condensing furnaces, equipped with secondary heat exchangers that retrieve surplus heat from exhaust gases, can easily meet this standard.
Data from 2022 reveals that residential gas furnaces contribute to around 19 percent of the U.S.’s annual residential energy consumption. The DOE is optimistic that the new efficiency standards for these appliances will lead to a reduction in carbon emissions by 332 million metric tons over three decades. This is comparable to the combined yearly emissions of 42 million households, covering roughly 34 percent of homes in the U.S. Additionally, methane emissions are projected to decrease by 4.3 million tons.
To date, the DOE has rolled out proposed or final efficiency standards for 24 distinct product categories this year, a pivotal move to fulfill Congressional instructions for energy savings while enhancing the reliability and performance of household appliances and commercial equipment.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration’s guidance, DOE’s past and future energy efficiency measures are projected to save Americans a whopping $570 billion. These actions will also potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 2.4 billion metric tons in 30 years, solidifying the President’s firm stance on addressing the climate crisis.
Moreover, to maximize the benefits of these enhanced energy standards, the DOE has introduced the Energy Savings Hub. This platform is designed to aid American families in leveraging the cost-saving opportunities ushered in by President Biden’s Investing in America initiative. Those interested in transitioning to cleaner, more efficient appliances can explore www.Energy.gov/Save for comprehensive insights.
To get acquainted with the DOE’s energy conservation standards encompassing over 60 appliance and equipment categories, one can visit the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program’s official page.