The decision to buy a furnace always stems from the need to have a warm but energy-efficient home. However, you should not make any hasty decisions when you go to buy a new furnace as they can be costly. There are tons of other things that you have to think about when buying a furnace so planning ahead is a must.
When you need to buy a new furnace for your Canadian home, you’ll want to make sure that your home’s heating system is up and running before the winter comes. Sometimes, choosing a furnace takes time because you have to deal with tons of choices such as size, type, and efficiency. If you wait too long to decide, you may end up buying something that’s not within your budget with features not appropriate for your needs.
Here are some of the things you have to factor in when buying a new furnace:
Source of Fuel
Furnaces can have different fuel sources: gas, electric or oil. Gas furnaces use natural gas and are often considered as the most economical of the three, especially when the temperatures are below freezing. An oil furnace is also an excellent heat source, but they have larger room requirements and can have higher operational costs. However, they are the best options for homes without gas lines. Electric furnaces are also an excellent alternative to gas furnaces, but they can make a considerable dent on your bank account. The most economical choice would be an electric-powered heat pump. They use less electricity because the system transfers heat from one air stream to another. They can also serve as an air conditioning system in the summer.
Type of System
Furnaces can either be a packaged or a split system. Split systems have a condensing unit, a furnace, and a coil above the heater. They are best used for homes with crawl spaces, attics, and basements. Packaged systems are a great alternative for households that do not have those mentioned spaces. These systems contain both the heating and cooling component in one convenient outdoor unit.
Size of Furnace
The furnace size is probably the most critical factor to consider when choosing an effective furnace. You have to choose a size that is appropriate for your home. If you end up picking a smaller boiler for your home, it will not be effective in providing heat throughout your house during cold seasons. If the unit is too large for your home, it will also be cost-inefficient.
Pricing and Budget
A significant factor in buying a furnace is the price and ensuring that it fits in your budget. If you find that the furnace you need is outside of your budget, you may consider working with a heating and air conditioning contractor that can offer you financing.
Warranty
When buying a furnace, always go for the one that comes with a warranty for furnace repair Cochrane, so you have the assurance that you will get what you are paying for.
Final Thoughts
In sum, having an energy-efficient furnace is a necessity when you live in a region that has extreme weather. In fact, some consider it to be an investment. So, it is always best to go for a furnace that can address your heating and air conditioning needs without draining your pocket. If you are unsure of what would be the best furnace to get for your home, you could always consult your contractor.
