Furnace Buying Guide

Here in Canada, we know that it can get extremely cold, so the key to keeping you and your family warm and comfortable starts with having the appropriate heating equipment. But finding the right furnace for your home can sometimes feel like a daunting task that requires a lot of consideration.

To help, here are a few important things to keep in mind when choosing the right furnace:

Are there different types of gas furnaces?

Yes! There are three main types of gas furnaces: single-stage, two-stage and modulating furnaces. All three types of furnaces are great options for heating your home. Finding the right one for you comes down to your home, budget, and desired level of efficiency.

What is a single-stage furnace?

A single-stage furnace has just one flame setting and is the most basic and commonly installed. They simply turn on and off – there’s no middle ground – and when they’re on they operate at the highest flame setting. It will get your home warm, but may not be the most energy-efficient option.

What is a two-stage furnace?

A two-stage furnace has a maximum high setting as well as a medium intensity setting. This helps to ensure more even heating and lower energy consumption. A two-stage furnace can be more expensive to purchase up front than a single-stage, but could save you in energy costs since it is generally more efficient.

What is a modulating furnace?

A modulating furnace has a flame that increases and decreases in smaller, finer increments to help the temperature in your home remain consistent. It helps reduce temperature fluctuations and helps meet your home comfort needs more accurately. A modulating furnace costs more than a single or two-stage furnace but delivers the most energy efficiency of the three.

What does AFUE mean?

The AFUE rating or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating easily helps you determine which furnace you are considering is the most efficient. The rating number tells you the percentage of fuel the furnace can convert into useable energy to warm your home. A furnace with a rating of 90 or above is considered a high-efficiency furnace.

What does ECM mean?

ECM, also known as an Electronically Commutated Motor is a motor that is energy-efficient, can adjust the speed of the airflow to match the heat of the burners, and could also help reduce air noise in your home.

What brand of furnace system is best?

The next thing to consider when looking for a new furnace is the brand. Selecting a trusted brand that is efficient and reliable, can help to ensure you and your family stay comfortable year-round. At Reliance™, we carry a wide selection of brands with various levels of energy efficiency to suit your needs.

What else should I consider before renting or buying a furnace?

The size of your home. Make sure the output capacity of your furnace is sized accordingly.
A quality furnace installation. In order for your system to run at peak performance, it must be installed correctly. Don’t leave it to just anyone.
Potential government mail-in rebates and incentives. Check as these may be available depending on the area you live in.
Rent or Buy? We can do both so read our Rent or Buy Pros and Cons to help you decide which option works best for you.
Furnace repairs could cost over $1,000. You could avoid most unexpected repair costs like these with our Comfort Furnace Protection Plans.
And lastly, furnace maintenance. Ensure you service your system regularly to help your furnace run smoothly all year round.

If you have any questions or are looking to find the right heating solution for your home, call us today. Our expert team of Home Comfort Advisors are dedicated to answering all your questions and discussing your needs to find the solution that works best for you and your home. Looking for more info online? Be sure to read our Ultimate Furnace Guide.

So remember, for all of your heating needs, Call on Reliance™.