Heating Efficiency: How to Maximise Heat and Reduce Fuel Costs
A heating system converts fuel into heat that flows throughout your home. The efficiency of your system depends on how much fuel it consumes to meet your heating needs. Using less fuel while maintaining comfort means your system is operating more efficiently.
Check Your Heating System First
Before upgrading or replacing your system, assess whether your current boiler or furnace can be salvaged through tuning or retrofitting. Inspect ducts, pipes, and other distribution components—sometimes small repairs can significantly improve efficiency.
Oil and gas furnaces require a steady supply of air for combustion and venting exhaust. Air can be drawn away by fireplaces, open windows, or constantly running exhaust fans, starving the furnace of oxygen.
Warning signs of inadequate ventilation include:
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Stuffy indoor air
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Lingering odors from incomplete combustion
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Backdrafts or smoking fireplaces
Some homes, especially energy-efficient ones or those with certain furnace types, may require additional ventilation to operate safely. If you suspect problems, contact a registered heating contractor.
Improve Heating Efficiency
If you’re keeping your current system, there are several steps to maximise its efficiency:
Thermostat Settings
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Lowering the thermostat saves heat and fuel.
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Programmable thermostats can regulate your home’s temperature automatically.
Ductwork and Airflow
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Seal all joints and seams in hot air ducts with vinyl duct tape to prevent heat loss.
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Close or seal unused duct registers in basements or attics.
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Insulate ducts running through unheated spaces with fiberglass batting or commercial duct wrap.
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Keep return air grills and supply registers free of obstructions.
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Replace furnace filters regularly.
Hot Water Systems
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Insulate exposed heating pipes with foil-faced fiberglass at least 19mm thick.
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Install a reflective board behind radiators to direct more heat into the room.
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Adding a circulating pump to gravity-based systems can save up to 30% in fuel.
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If your boiler has an aquastat (water temperature control), reduce water temperature during warmer periods to prevent overheating. Automatic aquastats can adjust temperatures as outdoor conditions change.
Furnace Upgrades
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Downsizing an oil furnace by using a smaller burner nozzle can reduce fuel consumption by 7–10%.
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Retention head burners improve fuel efficiency by mixing air and oil more efficiently, reducing heat loss up the chimney by 20–25%.
Choosing Fuel and System Upgrades
If you are considering a new system, fuel cost and availability are usually the deciding factors. Discuss options with a registered heating contractor, who can also assess your home’s air supply requirements and ensure proper ventilation.
Bottom Line
Maximising heating efficiency involves both system maintenance and smart upgrades. Sealing leaks, insulating ducts and pipes, using thermostats wisely, and considering furnace or burner improvements can significantly reduce fuel consumption and increase comfort—while keeping your home safe.
