Upgrading Equipment and Appliances

In addition to maximizing the energy efficiency of existing building systems, substantial savings can be achieved through upgrading equipment and appliances. One should still weigh the operational savings against the initial cost of the new equipment, particularly if the existing equipment is not near the end of its life. 

Calculator aids that take into account the efficiency of both the existing and new equipment are available online to assist in determining the payback. Advance planning will allow time to find the most efficient unit, as well as to investigate the availability of any state and federal energy credits. As energy prices continue to rise and technology advances, options such as the installation of a solar hot water heater or geothermal ground source or water source heat pumps are becoming more economically feasible. Recommendations for upgrading equipment and appliances include:

• Upgrade the heating system. It is important to install new furnaces that utilize outside combustion air to reduce air drawn into the building through uncontrolled infiltration. [All furnaces and boilers are now measured by their annual fuel utilization efficiency or AFUE.] Heating equipment is now more efficient and gas furnaces that used to have a 60% (AFUE) rating can now operate at as much as 90 to 97% efficiency.
• Upgrade the air conditioning system.
• Replace the water heater. High-efficiency water heaters use far less energy than earlier models, and high-efficiency tankless water heaters heat water on demand and offer even greater savings. Point of use water heat can also reduce costs and water consumption by reducing the time it takes to draw hot water.
• Upgrade appliances. Energy Star appliances, particularly refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers can all reduce electricity use and additional indoor heating loads.