In HVAC terminology, what does AFUE stand for?

AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This is a standard measure used to determine how efficiently a furnace or boiler converts fuel into usable heat over the course of a year. AFUE is expressed as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more efficient heating performance. For example, an AFUE rating of 90% means that 90% of the fuel consumed is converted into heat, while the remaining 10% is lost in the combustion process.

Understanding AFUE is important for consumers seeking to maximize their energy efficiency and minimize costs since higher AFUE rates often correlate with lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact due to less fuel consumption. In HVAC applications, a better AFUE rating can also contribute to improved overall system performance and comfort levels in residential and light commercial spaces.