Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency AFUE
AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, is a measure used in the United States to show how efficiently furnaces, boilers, and space heaters convert fuel into usable heat. Set by the U.S. Department of Energy, the rating works on a simple rule: the higher the percentage, the more efficient the appliance. Heating products sold in the U.S. must meet a minimum AFUE of 78%. Each appliance displays its AFUE on a yellow Energy Guide label for customers to compare.
AFUE is calculated by dividing a boiler’s total annual heat output (in BTUs) by its total annual energy input (also in BTUs) and multiplying by 100. In practice, measuring AFUE is quite technical because it requires sensors and equipment to track heat output over time. Once the total yearly heat output is known, it is compared to a standard figure of 100 million BTUs, which represents the typical fuel needed for a heating season.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.
Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.
Building Safety Regulator, 19 August
Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.
Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation
Building competence for the future of built heritage.
Building Regulations and Building Safety Act
CIOB publishes free advice for non-domestic clients.
Building Safety Newsletter from MHCLG.
An extraordinary record of steel engineering worldwide.