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What is the typical efficiency of many furnaces manufactured before 1992?

  1. 10%

  2. 40%

  3. 60%

  4. 80%

The correct answer is: 60%

Many furnaces manufactured before 1992 typically exhibit efficiencies around 60%. This level of efficiency means that only about 60% of the fuel's energy is converted into usable heat for the home, with the remaining 40% lost, often through venting or other system inefficiencies. Furnaces made during this period did not incorporate the advanced technology and design refinements that have become standard in modern high-efficiency models. As a result, a significant portion of the energy in the fuel was not utilized effectively. This contrasts sharply with newer models, which can achieve efficiencies of 90% or higher through improved designs and features like condensing heat exchangers. Understanding these efficiency standards is crucial for evaluating heating systems and making informed decisions about upgrades or replacements in older homes.