As the cold Canadian winters approach, ensuring your home stays warm and cozy becomes a top priority. One of the most important decisions a homeowner can make is choosing a new furnace. With various models, efficiency ratings, and features available, selecting the right furnace can be overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’re here to guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re upgrading an old system or installing a new furnace, here's what to look for when choosing the best furnace for your Canadian home.

1. Gas Furnace: A Popular Choice for Canadians

In Canada, gas furnaces are the most common and reliable heating solution. They are efficient, cost-effective, and well-suited to our colder climate. Gas furnaces use natural gas or propane to generate heat and distribute it throughout the home. They are popular because they deliver fast, powerful heating and are typically more affordable to run compared to other fuel sources like oil or electric heating.

When shopping for a gas furnace, there are several factors to consider to ensure you're making the right choice for your home and budget.

2. Energy Efficiency: Look for High AFUE Ratings

One of the most important features to look for when choosing a furnace is energy efficiency. Not only does a high-efficiency furnace reduce your carbon footprint, but it also helps lower your heating bills – something every Canadian homeowner will appreciate during the long winter months.

The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating is the standard metric for measuring the efficiency of a furnace. AFUE represents the percentage of fuel (in this case, natural gas) that is converted into usable heat. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace.

For example:

• 80% AFUE furnace: Converts 80% of the fuel into heat and wastes 20%.
• 90-95% AFUE furnace: These are high-efficiency models that waste very little energy.

Look for a furnace with an AFUE rating of at least 90% or higher for the best efficiency. Although high-efficiency models may come with a higher upfront cost, they will save you money in the long run through lower energy bills.

3. Sizing: Get the Right Size Furnace for Your Home

An incorrectly sized furnace can cause issues ranging from inefficient heating to excess wear on the system, leading to costly repairs. The size of the furnace is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) – a unit that indicates how much heat a furnace can produce.

To choose the right size furnace for your home, you’ll need to calculate the heating needs based on your home's square footage, insulation, and climate zone. An HVAC professional can perform a Manual J Load Calculation, which determines the exact furnace size required to keep your home comfortable.

A furnace that’s too small won’t effectively heat your home, while an oversized furnace may cycle on and off too frequently, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Always ensure your furnace is properly sized for optimal performance.

4. Two-Stage vs. Single-Stage vs. Modulating Furnaces

When shopping for a furnace, you’ll encounter three types of gas furnaces:

• Single-Stage Furnaces: These are basic furnaces that operate at full capacity once they’re turned on. They are cost-effective but may not provide as consistent or efficient heating as other options.

• Two-Stage Furnaces: These furnaces can operate at two different speeds: low and high. In mild conditions, the furnace operates at a lower speed, conserving energy. When it’s colder outside, it can switch to a higher stage for more intense heating. Two-stage furnaces offer more consistent comfort and efficiency than single-stage units.

• Modulating Furnaces: These are the most advanced and energy-efficient. Modulating furnaces can adjust their heat output in tiny increments to meet the exact heating needs of your home. This results in superior comfort, minimal temperature fluctuations, and the highest energy efficiency.

While modulating furnaces are the most expensive option, they offer the best long-term energy savings and comfort. If your budget allows, a two-stage or modulating furnace could be a wise investment for optimal home heating.

5. Variable-Speed Blowers: Comfort and Quiet Operation

In addition to the furnace’s heating power, consider a unit with a variable-speed blower. This type of blower adjusts the speed based on the heating demand, offering several benefits:

• More consistent temperatures: A variable-speed blower can maintain a steady temperature throughout your home by slowly ramping up or down its speed.
• Quieter operation: Unlike single-speed blowers that may cause noticeable starts and stops, variable-speed blowers run more smoothly and quietly.
• Improved air circulation: With more consistent airflow, the system can better filter the air, helping with overall air quality.

This feature enhances comfort, especially for homes with uneven heating or multiple floors.

6. Consider Smart Technology and Features

With the rise of smart home technology, many modern furnaces come with integrated Wi-Fi capability and smart thermostats that allow you to control your furnace remotely via an app on your smartphone. These features can help you manage your home’s heating system more efficiently and conveniently. For example, you can adjust your furnace settings while you’re away, ensuring that your home is warm when you return.

Many smart thermostats also learn your preferences over time, adjusting the temperature based on your schedule and habits to save energy without sacrificing comfort.

7. Noise Levels: Choose a Quiet Furnace

While the primary function of a furnace is to provide heat, the noise level is an important factor to consider, especially if your furnace is located near living areas or bedrooms. Some older or lower-end models can be quite noisy, while newer, high-efficiency models are designed to operate quietly.

Look for a furnace with sound-reducing features such as insulated cabinets and variable-speed motors. Many modern units are designed to operate at lower decibel levels, providing a quieter home environment.

8. Warranty and Maintenance

When purchasing a new furnace, be sure to inquire about the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty ensures peace of mind, protecting you against unexpected repairs. Most reputable furnace brands offer warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years on parts, with extended coverage available for certain models.

In addition to the warranty, regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your furnace running smoothly. Ensure you have a reliable HVAC service provider who can perform routine inspections and maintenance, such as cleaning filters, inspecting burners, and checking overall system performance.

9. Local Climate and Installation

Canada’s extreme winter temperatures mean that you’ll need a furnace that can handle long, harsh seasons. Make sure the furnace you choose is rated for your local climate. For example, colder regions may benefit from a higher-capacity furnace with enhanced features like better heat exchangers or improved insulation.

When installing a new furnace, always hire a licensed HVAC professional to ensure proper installation and efficiency. Improper installation can reduce the furnace's lifespan and efficiency, negating any energy savings.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a new furnace can be a daunting task, but by focusing on key factors like energy efficiency, furnace size, type, and advanced features, you can make a more informed decision. Remember, investing in a high-efficiency gas furnace with modern features like a variable-speed blower or smart technology can lead to long-term savings on your energy bills while keeping your home warm and comfortable all winter long.

For expert advice and high-quality gas furnaces in Canada, look no further than Airtek. Visit our website at airtekshop.com or call us at 1-866-969-1931 to speak with one of our HVAC experts. We’re here to help you find the perfect furnace for your home, so you can enjoy a warm, energy-efficient winter season.