How Insulation Impacts Furnace Performance?

How Insulation Impacts Furnace Performance?

Super Standard, October 26, 2023

A well-maintained furnace is essential for keeping our homes comfortable and warm during winter. It is very frustrating having a chilly home due to a malfunctioning furnace. People are often unaware that improper insulation is one of the most crucial reasons behind a malfunctioning furnace. Not only does it decrease efficiency, resulting in increased energy bills, but even the overall performance comes down. This blog post explores the crucial role of insulation in the efficiency and repair of furnaces.

The Link Between Furnace Efficiency and Heating Costs

Before moving forward to insulation, let us start by understanding furnace efficiency. It is a parameter often used to gauge the effectiveness of electricity or fuel conversion to heat. The more efficient the furnace, the less fuel or electricity is needed to keep the home warm. As you can see, furnace efficiency will directly affect the heating cost.

And what is insulation? It is like a thermal barrier that stops the transmission of heat to the colder outdoors. Good insulation prevents the warm air produced by the furnace from exiting through cracks, gaps, or other poorly insulated areas, keeping heat trapped in the home. But, if the insulation is inadequate, heat transfer will occur through cracks and gaps in windows, floors, ceilings, and walls. Also, the furnace will have to overwork to maintain the same comforting temperature. This increases wear and tear, reducing the furnace’s lifespan and more repair and maintenance costs.

Exploring Insulation Material Options

Various types of insulation materials are available, each having its own pros and cons. The most commonly used materials are cellulose, foam, and fibreglass. Fibreglass insulation uses very fine glass fibres to maintain thermal resistance. The cost is also in the affordability range for most people. Form insulation is done through things like spray foam. This is very effective in gap sealing and air leakage prevention. Cellulose insulation is the most environmentally friendly option for insulation. It is resistant to fire, and its insulation performance is exceptional. For choosing between different insulation materials, go as per the specific area of the home you need insulation for and the budget constraints.

Detecting Insulation Issues for Furnace Efficiency

To maintain the furnace’s efficiency and avoid its unnecessary use, identifying insulation problems is a must. Common signs of insulation problems are cold air sensation, cold spots, and high energy bills. If you feel a chilled breeze despite closing doors and windows, it is a sure sign that hot air has found a spot to exit. If you sense that some areas of your home are not getting uniformly heated, remember that it indicates insulation gaps. Also, keep an eye on the energy bills. If you observe them steadily increasing, the factor could be the furnace working overtime to outperform inadequate insulation. If the furnace has to overwork for long, you might also have to go for costly and premature repairs.

Don’t let winter catch you off guard! When you need furnace repair in Coquitlam, turn to Super Standard Heating and Air Duct Cleaning. Our experienced team ensures a warm, comfortable home. Contact us to schedule your service and stay cozy all winter!