Furnace Buying Guide 2023-2024 ⋆ ProSolutions Inc

Author: Steve

Sep. 09, 2024

Furnace Buying Guide: Essential Insights for Homeowners in 2023-2024

Looking to install a new furnace in your Edmonton residence? This comprehensive guide equips you with all the vital information required for purchasing a furnace.

Explore a wealth of products and data at PAKE for your needs.

Choosing a new HVAC system involves several critical considerations, ranging from dimensions and energy efficiency to selecting reputable furnace brands. As a top furnace installation service in Edmonton, we have compiled this guide to facilitate your purchasing decision. By the time you finish this guide, you'll be well-informed on how to select the ideal furnace for your home. Additionally, our experts will share insights regarding their recommended furnace options, including the units they personally prefer!

Ready to thoroughly explore the furnace landscape? Here’s what you should know when you're purchasing a furnace in 2023-2024.

Note: This Furnace Buying Guide was first published in *year*. It was revised in September *year* to provide updated furnace buying recommendations for 2023-2024.

Understanding Furnace Operation

If you're keen on finding the best furnace for your home in Edmonton, it's essential to comprehend how a furnace operates. In this guide, we will clarify its functionality in a mere five straightforward steps.

Assuming you own a gas furnace (the prevalent choice in Alberta), let’s delve into how a gas furnace operates.

  1. Upon initiating the heating process in your home, the thermostat communicates with the furnace, indicating it’s time to warm up the incoming cool air.
  2. The furnace responds by opening a gas valve, where the released gas ignites the burners. Safety sensors ensure all burners ignite. If one fails to do so, the system temporarily shuts down, attempting to reignite subsequently.
  3. With all burners lit, they collectively heat the furnace’s heat exchanger.
  4. When the heat exchanger reaches the desired temperature, the blower motor activates. This allows cool air to flow through the ducts and over the heated exchanger, warming it up.
  5. The blower then distributes the heated air throughout your home's duct system. When the temperature reaches the setting on the thermostat, the furnace halts operation.

Key Components of a Furnace

In addition to grasping how a furnace functions, understanding its components is equally vital. Familiarity with these parts will enhance your comprehension of your HVAC system, especially concerning maintenance and repairs!

Most gas furnaces feature these critical components:

For a visual of these components' locations, refer back to our furnace component diagram earlier in this guide. The layout may vary depending on the specific furnace model.

Thermostat

Regulates temperature settings and controls the furnace’s operation.

Combustion Air Intake

Conducts fresh outside air into the combustion chamber, essential for safe and efficient fuel burning.

Supply-Air Plenum

A collection chamber that gathers heated air from the furnace before it's supplied to various parts of your home.

Burner

Mixes fuel and air for combustion, generating heat to warm the air circulated through your HVAC.

Return-Air Plenum

A chamber where return air ducts merge, collecting air to filter, heat, and redistribute.

Air Filter

Traps contaminants such as dust and pollen from the air prior to heating.

Blower Fan

Circulates air through the furnace and into your ducts.

Heat Exchanger

A unit of coils or tubes transferring heat from combustion gases to the circulating air.

Gas Line

Connects the main gas supply to the furnace for seamless fuel flow.

Exhaust Flue

Channels exhaust gases outdoors, preventing the buildup of harmful gases inside your home.

*Pilot Light

Keeps a small flame continuously lit for igniting the main burner.

*Control Board

Acts as the system's brain, controlling various operations such as igniter activation, gas flow, and blower speed.

*Components not shown in the diagram referenced.

Expected Lifespan of a Furnace

The typical lifespan of a furnace averages between 15 to 20 years. Regular maintenance is crucial to maximizing your unit's longevity.

While many people think, "If it isn't broken, why replace it?" when it concerns furnaces, the adage does not hold. Generally, a newer furnace surpasses an older one in efficiency and energy savings.

Investing in a new furnace can significantly lower your energy costs due to enhanced efficiencies, advanced features, and increased home value.

Therefore, it’s best practice to replace your unit every 15 to 20 years to maintain efficiency and safety.

Extending Your Furnace’s Lifespan

Here are strategic recommendations on prolonging your furnace's operational life:

  • Engage a certified HVAC service for installation and regular maintenance.

Selecting a local heating provider ensures they are attuned to your region's climate, optimizing installation and caring for your system.

  • Regularly change or clean your air filter.

This not only increases efficiency but also maintains air quality in your home.

  • Schedule yearly furnace check-ups.

Annual inspections guarantee that your system operates optimally and issues are addressed preemptively.

When is Replacement Necessary?

Identifying when to replace your furnace can sometimes be straightforward. If your furnace is over 15 years old, has soaring energy bills, produces unusual noises, or requires frequent repairs, consult an HVAC professional.

For evaluating cost-effectiveness, HVAC technicians often employ a simple formula comparing repair expenses against the replacement cost.

Here’s a simplified approach:

Step 1. Calculate Cost of Repair x Age of the Unit (in years)

Step 2. Compare to the replacement cost

Step 3. If the number from step one exceeds the replacement cost, REPLACE YOUR FURNACE

Example Scenario: Repair vs. Replace

If your furnace is 10 years old with repair costs of $700:

Replacing it costs $5,000:

Calculation: $700 (repair cost) x 10 (unit age) = $7,000

Since $7,000 > $5,000 (replacement cost), opt for replacement.

Need assistance deciding whether to repair or replace? The experts at ProSolutions Heating Inc. can help clarify the best choice!

New Furnace Pricing

Curious about the total cost to replace your furnace? In Edmonton, new systems typically range from $5,500 to $10,000+ including installation. Costs hinge on factors such as:

  • Furnace type
  • Brand
  • Size
  • Efficiency rating
  • Installer reputation

Furnace Installation Expenses

Opting for a professional installation may incur higher initial costs but promotes better long-term efficiency.

In Alberta, a heat-loss assessment is also necessary for proper installation. The peak purchasing periods are generally during the spring or fall, allowing for better deals, availability, and quicker installations.

Operating Expenses

Homeowners must contemplate ongoing operating costs. Typically, gas and propane furnaces emerge as the most economical choices in terms of fuel expense.

Investing in a high-efficiency furnace can also help minimize these costs significantly.

Reduce Costs with High-Efficiency Furnaces

Clients report savings of 20-30% in gas usage with high-efficiency units.

Does a New Furnace Increase Home Value?

If selling your home soon, a new furnace is a wise investment. Though you won’t recoup the total cost, expect to recover 50% to 80% of the total cost upon sale, especially if it’s high-efficiency.

Furnace Selection Criteria

An array of factors influence your choice for an HVAC system, including:

  • Furnace types
  • Single-stage vs multi-speed vs variable-speed units
  • Efficiency ratings
  • Furnace dimensions
  • Brand reputation

Diverse Furnace Types

Common types include:

  • Gas
  • Electric
  • Oil
  • Propane

Gas and electric options are predominant in Alberta. Assess their advantages and drawbacks to inform your decision.

Comparing Gas and Electric Furnaces

Gas furnaces typically incur higher upfront expenses but lower operating costs, making them preferable for Edmonton’s climate. As such, the consensus leans toward gas systems for long-term value.

For additional insights, consult Heating Elements for Home Comfort Devices.

Single-Stage, Multi-Speed, Variable-Speed Comparisons

Investing in a variable-speed model may result in superior efficiency and comfort due to its adaptive temperature control capabilities.

Optimal Efficiency Ratings

High-efficiency units, despite initial costs, can drive down utility expenses significantly. Look out for government rebates that incentivize high-efficiency installations.

Efficiency Measurement: Understanding AFUE

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) gauges how effectively your furnace converts fuel into heat. Aim for models with at least a 95% AFUE rating.

Recommended Efficient Models

Reliable models often bear the ENERGY STAR label and are conducive to long-term savings and performance. Recommendations include:

  • TRANE S9V2-VS - ENERGY STAR certified, 97% AFUE
  • TRANE XC95M - ENERGY STAR certified, up to 97.3%
  • AirEase A97MV - ENERGY STAR certified, 97% AFUE

Determining the Right Furnace Size

Choosing the correct size unit is crucial for preventing energy inefficiency. Understanding BTUs (British Thermal Units) is vital; smaller homes typically necessitate lower BTU ratings.

Recommended BTUs Based on Home Size

Here are suggested BTU ranges for specific home sizes:

  • 1,200 sq. ft.: 36,000 to 72,000 BTUs
  • 1,500 sq. ft.: 45,000 to 90,000 BTUs
  • 1,800 sq. ft.: 54,000 to 108,000 BTUs
  • 2,100 sq. ft.: 63,000 to 126,000 BTUs
  • 2,400 sq. ft.: 72,000 to 144,000 BTUs

Best Furnace Brands in Edmonton

Quality brands include:

  • Trane
  • RunTru by Trane
  • AirEase
  • Ducane
  • WeatherMaker
  • Carrier
  • Payne

Additional Furnace Considerations

Don’t overlook aspects like maintenance, warranties, features like smart thermostats, and financing options when purchasing your unit.

Environmental Impact

As heating considered one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, opt for high-efficiency models to reduce your carbon footprint.

Furnace Installation Tips

Choose a reputable local HVAC provider to maximize your new furnace's performance, ensuring optimal warmth and efficiency in your home.

Money-Saving Strategies for New Furnace Purchases

  • Watch for Deals: Keep up with local promotions.
  • Explore Rebates: Government incentives can help cut costs.
  • Get Multiple Estimates: Compare different installers for the best service.

Stay Prepared for Winter

As the colder months approach, now’s the perfect time to consider maintenance or a new furnace installation. Contact a qualified expert to explore your options for a cozy winter season.

Contact us today for a free consultation!

Furnace Buying Guide FAQ

Questions about installing a new furnace? Reach out with any inquiries or concerns!

How long does installation take?

Expect installation to generally span between 4 to 6 hours.

Critical questions for new furnace buyers?

  • What size is appropriate?
  • What’s the AFUE rating?
  • Does it integrate with smart home systems?
  • What warranty options are available?
  • What maintenance is anticipated?

Ensure you ask about the installer’s licenses, insurance, technician qualifications, references, and service guarantees.

For further insights, explore How Does the Heater Work on an Electric Car or reach out for personalized assistance.

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