Four Considerations When Choosing a Furnace

Buying a furnace is a big decision. Here are four major factors you’ll want to take into account when weighing all of your options.

1. Fuel type

First, decide whether you want a gas, oil or electric furnace.

• Gas is the most popular option. Gas furnaces cost less to operate than electric or oil ones. However, installing one in a home that doesn’t already have a gas line can be very expensive.
• Oil furnaces are more expensive to operate and install than gas furnaces but are a viable alternative for homes that don’t have gas lines.
• Electric furnaces are cheaper to purchase and install but cost more to operate. In the long run, they’re less cost-effective than gas furnaces. However, they don’t pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

2. Heating capacity
Generally, bigger furnaces have more heating capacity. However, an oversized furnace will cycle on and off, which prematurely degrades components and uses more power. If you’re replacing an old furnace, the easiest thing to do is to use your previous unit’s size as a guide. If it was struggling to heat your home, go bigger. If not, aim for a similarly sized model. Note that determining how big a furnace you need is complicated, so your best bet is to have an HVAC contractor complete an evaluation.

3. Energy efficiency
Modern furnaces have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This rating tells you what percentage of the fuel your furnace uses is actually converted into heat. Old furnaces tend to have an AFUE rating of around 65%, meaning that 35% of the fuel goes to waste. Today’s high-efficiency furnaces have an AFUE of 90% or higher.

Always factor the AFUE rating into your decision. Having a high-efficiency furnace, even if it has a higher upfront cost, can pay off in the long run.

4. Your budget
Last but not least, you need to understand how your budget impacts your options. In particular, you need to balance installation and operation costs. Similarly, you need to consider which features are important to you. Finally, consider that the government of Manitoba may offer tax credits for things like high-efficiency upgrades.

Are You Shopping for a Gas Furnace in Winnipeg?
At East Side Ventilation, we carry a wide selection of furnaces so we can provide you with the best product for your home and budget. Consult our technicians to determine which furnace is appropriate for you. We’ll also get the installation done quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about our HVAC services in Winnipeg and Brandon or to request a sales estimate.