How to use the calculator

The calculator compares a "current system" with a "new system." Using the drop down menus on the next page, select a heater and distribution type for each system. The calculator will assign values for the heater efficiency, distribution efficiency and fuel cost fields. Make changes to these values if you have better information (see Note #1, below.)

When you have made your selections, and made any appropriate changes to the default values, hit the "Submit Info" button. From there, the calculator will display a results page, which compares the operating costs between the two systems, and will tell you how much you will (or won't) save by using one system over another.

Notes
1. The calculator will assign values to the heater efficiency, distribution efficiency, and fuel cost fields. Please note that these are default values only, based on an average. Actual values may vary significantly, especially when it comes to heater efficiency and fuel cost. For best results, obtain efficiency values for heaters from the manufacturer, and fuel costs from your utility. The values for distribution system efficiency are more likely to be accurate; they are generally accepted default values. However, if you have more accurate data (from testing, calculation, or other method) by all means use it.

2. Be aware that heating cost calculator assumes that both systems will be heating the same space. Additional savings can be achieved by zonal heating, but this calculator does not perform this type of calculation.

3. Note that the calculator does not take into account the efficiency of the fuel transmission from the source to your home, only the efficiency of the system within your home.

4. The calculator is compatible with both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer. The calculator is optimized for use with versions 4.0 and above for both browsers. Those with earlier versions of the browsers can still use the calculator, but it may not perform to its full capabilities. To update to the current version of Netscape Navigator, click here. To update to the current version of Microsoft Internet Explorer, click here.

5. The calculator is intended for display at a resolution of 800x600 or higher. If your display settings are lower than 800x600, the calculator may look jumbled or unreadable.  If you are using Windows 95 or greater click Start\Settings\Control Panel\Display to configure your display settings.  Click the Settings tab and then use the Desktop Area slider control to change your display size.  If you are using a Mac or other Operating System check your owner's manual.

Examples of Efficiency calculations:

AFUE - is already in terms of percentage => 78 AFUE = 78%

COP - if it is rated a 2.2 multiply by 100 => 2.2 COP X 100 = 220%

HSPF - if it is rated an 8.5, divide by 3.413 and multiply this total by 100 => (8.5/3.413) X 100 = 249%

Equations used for Efficiency calculations: