DOE Standards Increase Furnace Costs

FURNACE MANUFACTURERS ADAPT TO MEET NEW DOE STANDARDS

ECM Motors will Increase New Furnace Prices, but Save on Fuel Use and Costs

Starting July 3, 2019, new U.S. Department of Energy FER (fan efficiency rating) standards designed to help curb carbon emissions and energy costs will go into effect.

To meet these new standards, furnace manufacturers are changing to electronically commutated motors (ECMs) to power the fans contained in most types of furnaces.

ECM fans are more expensive and the higher cost will be reflected in the prices consumers will pay for a new furnace. The good news is, consumers will reap the benefits of ECM technology including more customized comfort control and saving money through reduced energy use.

The Department of Energy estimates that new FER standards will reduce carbon pollution by around 34 million metric tons by 2030. In electricity, this would be enough to power 4.7 million homes for a year.

To learn more about what this change means for you click here, or to get a quote on replacing your old furnace with one equipped with an ECM, give us a call!