Furnace Buying Guide for Canadians!

With over half of Canadian households relying on natural gas furnaces, selecting the best furnace for warmth and energy efficiency is essential. Natural gas prices in Canada have increased significantly, rising 23.7% year-over-year, highlighting the importance of an efficient, high-performance furnace that can reduce heating costs and maintenance expenses. Whether you’re aiming to build a net-zero home or simply want a more energy-efficient furnace, choosing the right model can improve comfort, cut energy bills, and lower your environmental impact.

Here’s a look at what to consider in a new furnace and a roundup of top furnace options available in Canada in 2024.

Key Considerations When Choosing a New Furnace

While many furnace brands offer similar models, what matters most is the individual unit’s efficiency, durability, and features. Here are essential features to consider in a new furnace for maximum energy efficiency:

• High AFUE Ratings: Furnaces with a high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating are more energy-efficient, meaning they convert more fuel into usable heat, reducing energy bills. Look for furnaces with at least 95% AFUE to keep costs down.
• Two-Stage or Modulating Furnaces: These models adjust their output to maintain a consistent, comfortable indoor temperature. A two-stage furnace operates at both high and low settings, conserving energy and enhancing comfort.
• Variable-Speed Blower Motor: Variable-speed motors use less energy, run quietly, and provide steady airflow. This feature is ideal for net-zero homes, as it can reduce power consumption.
• Energy-Saving and Smart Features: High-efficiency furnaces may come with smart features, like Wi-Fi control, air-purification, and zone control capabilities. These allow homeowners to optimize heating remotely, further improving energy efficiency.
• Quality Materials: Look for furnaces with stainless steel heat exchangers, as they last longer and resist corrosion.
• Professional Installation: Quality installation by certified HVAC professionals ensures proper functioning and energy savings. Regular maintenance also helps keep your furnace running efficiently and can prevent costly repairs.
• Warranty and Trusted Dealer: A robust warranty and buying from a reputable dealer mean greater peace of mind and lower long-term costs. A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the furnace’s longevity.

If your furnace is over 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or contributes to high energy bills, it may be time for a replacement. For younger furnaces with minor issues, repairs could be a cost-effective solution.

Cost Considerations for a New Furnace

In Canada, the cost of a new furnace, including installation, can range significantly based on the model, features, and efficiency. Budget options provide basic heating, while mid-range and high-end models offer advanced energy-saving features. Investing in a high-efficiency furnace can reduce monthly heating costs over time, offering a good return on investment, particularly as natural gas prices continue to climb. For those considering a heat pump, many Canadian programs offer heat pump deals to make energy-efficient heating solutions more affordable.

How We Evaluate the Most Reliable Furnaces

Our approach to identifying top furnace models is comprehensive, focusing on factors like energy efficiency, warranty, build quality, and customer feedback:

1. Warranty Coverage: A furnace’s warranty is a primary indicator of reliability. Longer warranties reflect manufacturer confidence and provide added security for homeowners.
2. Technical Specifications: We analyze technical details such as BTU output, AFUE rating, material quality, and energy-saving features. Units with high AFUE ratings and advanced design features, like variable-speed motors and Wi-Fi connectivity, rank highly for energy efficiency.
3. Installation Standards: Proper installation is crucial for efficiency and longevity. We evaluate HVAC teams to ensure they meet high installation and maintenance standards, reducing the risk of future issues.
4. Customer Feedback and Industry Reputation: We consider Canadian customer reviews and expert opinions, paying attention to consistent performance feedback and the overall reputation of each brand.

Top Furnace Brands and Models in Canada

Several top furnace brands stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and innovative features:

• Carrier: Known for high-efficiency models and advanced heating technology, Carrier furnaces are backed by robust warranties and trusted by both homeowners and HVAC professionals. Carrier offers a range of models with high AFUE ratings, smart features, and energy-efficient designs suitable for various budgets.
• Trane: Trane furnaces are renowned for their durability and quiet operation. They offer high AFUE ratings and two-stage or modulating options, ensuring consistent warmth and reduced energy consumption.
• Lennox: Lennox offers high-efficiency furnaces with Wi-Fi control and zone heating options. Many models are ideal for energy-conscious homeowners and can be integrated into net-zero homes.
• Rheem: With a focus on affordability and quality, Rheem furnaces provide dependable heating and solid energy savings. Their high-efficiency models are a great choice for homeowners looking to upgrade without overspending.

Finding the Right Furnace for Your Needs

Choosing a new furnace involves weighing several factors, from budget and efficiency to additional features like Wi-Fi control or air-purification systems. To ensure the best performance and energy efficiency, consult certified HVAC contractors for installation. In Canada, programs like Canada Greener Homes offer support for energy-efficient upgrades, making it easier to afford a high-efficiency furnace or heat pump.

A high-quality, energy-efficient furnace not only keeps your home warm but also reduces heating costs and supports sustainable living. By selecting a furnace tailored to your home’s needs and energy goals, you can enjoy comfort, savings, and the satisfaction of a smaller carbon footprint. Request a free estimate from certified local HVAC contractors to find the best heating solution for your home today.