The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has established new energy efficiency standards for residential gas furnaces, according to a press release. These standards, which are expected to take effect in late 2028, will ensure a minimum annual fuel utilization efficiency of 95 percent for residential gas furnaces. This means that the furnaces will efficiently convert gas into heat for living spaces, resulting in a significant reduction in waste.
The DOE estimates that these updated standards will lead to a reduction of approximately 332 million metric tons in carbon emissions over a 30-year period. This reduction is equivalent to the annual emissions of 42 million homes or about 34 percent of U.S. households. Additionally, the new standards will also result in a decrease of 4.3 million tons in methane emissions, which is comparable to the combined annual emissions of 14 million homes or roughly 29 coal plants.
The implementation of these new standards is expected to have significant benefits for American households. According to the DOE, these standards will save Americans nearly $25 billion over the course of 30 years. This will result in a reduction in household utility expenses and provide financial relief for families.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm expressed the importance of these energy efficiency standards in a press release. She stated, "DOE is continuing to review and finalize energy standards for household appliances, such as residential furnaces, to lower costs for working families by reducing energy use and slashing harmful pollutants in homes across the nation. Today's measure, along with this Administration's past and planned energy efficiency actions, underscores President Biden's commitment to save Americans money and deliver healthier communities."
It is worth noting that the most recent update to furnace efficiency standards occurred in 2007. The DOE's Building Technologies Office oversees minimum energy conservation standards for over 60 appliance and equipment categories, including residential gas furnaces. These standards cover approximately 19 percent of annual residential energy consumption in the United States as of 2022.
Overall, the implementation of these new energy efficiency standards for residential gas furnaces is expected to have a positive impact on both households and the environment. It will lead to significant cost savings for Americans and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
