QUALIFYING FURNACES AND BOILERS LISTS
CEE has developed lists of residential gas furnaces and residential gas boilers that meet the specifications for CEE's Residential Gas Heating Initiative. Click here for the list of qualifying furnaces and here for the qualifying boilers list. Please see the "About List" page in the Excel file for information about sources and the best way to use the lists.

NOTE: To download the Excel spreadsheet, right-click on the link and "Save Target As" to your computer.

CEE's RESIDENTIAL GAS HEATING INITIATIVE
Responding to the needs of gas utilities across the country, CEE launched its first gas initiative in 1998. By adopting and promoting specifications for energy-efficient residential gas furnaces and boilers, the initiative is increasing demand for this equipment as well as encouraging manufacturers to expand production of these products.

Initiative participants promote furnaces and boilers that meet or exceed CEE specifications. The CEE specification for boilers is set at an efficiency level that coincides with the ENERGY STAR^® qualifying level. The gas furnace specification consists of a fuel-efficiency requirement and a new electricity use option.

The fuel-efficiency specification was updated in 2002 to reflect advances in technology and market conditions. This specification has three tiers that can be used to promote different levels of efficiency.

Air-handling specification
In November 2003, CEE added an optional specification for electricity use by gas furnaces. This new air-handling specification applies only to furnaces that meet at least the Tier 1 fuel-efficiency specification (90 percent AFUE).

Power use for air handling represents 70-80 percent of the electricity drawn by furnaces. Improved air handling systems can include motors with greater efficiency and fans that are more aerodynamically efficient. In addition, other available technologies offer both higher energy efficiency as well as other non-energy benefits, such as better temperature control and quieter operation.

Promoting the initiative
Through the initiative, participants promote higher-efficiency equipment through rebates for purchases of high-efficiency equipment and/or consumer and contractor education about the benefits of efficient gas heating equipment.

To assist efficiency program administrators, contractors, and consumers in identifying high-efficiency equipment, CEE now maintains lists of furnaces and boilers that meet the CEE specifications. Check with your local utility or efficiency program administrator for the specifics of rebate offerings in your area.

Savings potential
Depending on locale, homeowners can usually save 15 percent on their energy bills with a qualifying furnace and 10 percent with a high-efficiency boiler (compared to standard-efficiency units).

The proper installation of energy-efficient equipment is another key element in ensuring heating system efficiency. CEE's Quality Installation specification establishes guidelines for the selection, sizing, installation and maintenance of residential HVAC equipment. The focus is on maximizing the efficiency of these systems.

CONTACT
For further information about CEE's High-Efficiency Gas Heating Initiative, contact Kara Rodgers at 617-589-3949, ext. 202.