January 17, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Howard Newman, CEE Communications Director
617-589-3949, ext. 209

PRESS KIT

Availability of high-efficiency gas furnaces hits all-time high
Utilities and other organizations are using financial incentives to promote this equipment

With the likelihood of a more stringent federal standard looming and the demands for energy-saving equipment increasing, manufacturers are producing more high-efficiency residential gas furnaces than ever before. According to CEE research, 22 percent of all available models are rated at 90 percent Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) or higher, compared to just 12 percent in 1998.

In its High-Efficiency Residential Gas Heating Initiative, CEE defines a high-efficiency gas furnace as one rated at 90 percent AFUE or above. There are currently 22 utilities and energy organizations promoting high-efficiency residential gas heating through the CEE initiative. A list of qualifying products can be found on the ENERGY STARŪ Web site.

"We're thrilled to see the increase in the number of efficient furnaces on the market," said Stephanie Jones, CEE Program Manager for Residential Gas Heating. "With more high-efficiency products available, consumers should have an easier time choosing a furnace that can save them money in heating their homes."

Energy savings from efficient furnaces can vary greatly, depending on locale. High-efficiency heating equipment makes the most sense in cooler climates where it is used more frequently (see page 3 of press kit). In Portland, Ore., for example, an efficient gas furnace can save $162 a year. Since many gas furnaces last 20 years or more, savings can really add up over the lifetime of the equipment.

The current federal minimum is 78 percent AFUE but the U.S. Department of Energy is researching a possible revision, which could be finalized as early as 2004.

CEE REVISES PERFORMANCE LEVELS
Responding to this market trend toward higher efficiency, CEE revised the performance levels for furnaces within its Residential Gas Heating Initiative in October 2002, setting tiers at 90, 92, and 94 percent AFUE (see Oct. 22, 2002 press release). CEE's original specification, set in 1998, was 90 percent AFUE.

The addition of these new performance tiers allows local energy-efficiency programs to be tailored to specific climate differences. Check with your local utility for programs promoting high-efficiency appliances and practices.

For further information, contact Stephanie Jones at 617-589-3949, ext. 205 or see the CEE press kit.

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