Calgary’s frigid winters demand a reliable and efficient heating system. If your furnace is outdated, inefficient, or frequently breaking down, it may be time to invest in a new one. But with so many options available, choosing and buying the right furnace can be overwhelming. From energy efficiency to installation costs, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase decision.
This blog will walk you through everything you need to know when buying a new furnace in Calgary, ensuring you make an informed investment that keeps your home warm and comfortable for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- A new furnace boosts efficiency, cuts costs, and keeps you warm.
- Gas, electric, and oil furnaces offer different benefits—choose wisely.
- Size matters—being too big or too small leads to inefficiency.
- Go for high AFUE ratings (90%+) to save on energy bills.
- Check warranties and schedule annual maintenance.
- Brand matters, but proper installation is key.
- Costs range from $1,700 to $5,500+ based on efficiency.
- Trust GSB Heating and Cooling Ltd. for expert furnace installation in Calgary.
Why Buying a New Furnace is Important in Calgary?
The winters are extremely harsh in Calgary. Buying a new furnace in Calgary isn’t just a choice or a luxury but a necessity. If you have an outdated furnace at your home, you may be spending more on its energy bills and frequent repairs. You wouldn’t want that, right?
Getting a new furnace in Calgary means you are improving energy efficiency, improving air quality inside your home and hence increasing its comfort factor. So, invest in a furnace that will be worthwhile for your home in the long run.
Understanding the Types of Furnaces Available
When shopping for a new furnace in Calgary, it’s essential to understand the different types available. The most common furnace types include –
Oil Furnace
Oil furnaces need oil to burn as fuel to heat their systems, as it’s reflected in its name. People prefer it due to its lower cost. But you have to keep in mind that an oil furnace requires more frequent maintenance to prevent grease leakage. The fuel tank of an oil furnace must be full to function. A word of caution: Vent the furnace properly and burn the fuel efficiently to avoid carbon monoxide leaks.
Natural Gas Furnace
The most common type of furnace in homes today is the natural gas furnace. It operates through central air ducts and requires a connection to a municipal gas line. Modern high-efficiency gas furnaces can achieve AFUE ratings of 90% or higher, reducing energy costs while providing consistent and powerful heating. They are known for their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to heat homes quickly, making them a preferred choice for homeowners looking for efficient and long-lasting warmth during harsh winters.
Electric Furnace
The more cost and energy-efficient model is an electric furnace if you don’t want to deal with carbon monoxide leaks or high oil prices. It is more cost-effective if you completely go the solar power route because solar power doesn’t need you to rely heavily on electricity. Hence, electric furnaces are usually inexpensive to purchase up front and are smaller than other furnaces, making them easy to fit into most spaces.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Furnace in Calgary
Purchasing a new furnace is a significant investment, so it’s important to evaluate the following factors before making a decision –
The Fuel Source
The three main options when you are considering buying a new furnace are – electric, gas, and oil. Depending on the space you need to heat, do a little math to try to predict your monthly electricity and gas bills with this source of heating.
Size of the Furnace
You should install a properly sized furnace in your home for proper heating. If you think that the bigger the better, you need to rethink. A large unit will have to switch itself off when it overshoots the mark. This means you may end up with high energy bills. A unit that is too small can struggle to heat up the space. When you are buying a new furnace in Calgary, it is important that you work with the right heating and cooling company to maintain the energy efficiency of your home.
Warranties and Maintenance
Different manufacturers have different warranty periods. There are two main warranty coverage areas. The first one is the heat exchanger, which is the most expensive component to replace. It forms the center of the furnace. This part generally has a 20-year limited warranty or lifetime limited warranty, but it varies depending on the model of the furnace and the manufacturer.
The other coverage area involves the main parts, such as electronic controls, blower motors, ignitors, and other important parts. The warranty for such parts can vary from as little as one year to 10 years. Your warranty will be considered completed only when you have completed the product registration. So, don’t forget to do that. Also, regardless of the furnace you are having, get it inspected once annually by a reputable company.
The Furnace Brand
When you have decided to purchase a new furnace, choose a well-known brand. Expensive models have more features, higher efficiency, and more longevity. However, there are many other things that you need to keep in mind besides the price. Focus on the overall size, features, and type of furnace when buying a new furnace in Calgary.
Cost
The cost of the furnace can vary from as low as $1700 for a basic furnace to $5500 or more for a high-efficiency system. It depends on your budget and the season in which you are buying, as some seasons come with extra discounts and the advantages of rebates from the federal and state governments.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is one of the most crucial factors when selecting a furnace. Look for a furnace with a high AFUE rating (90% or higher) to ensure you get the most out of your heating system while keeping energy bills low. It is said that the higher the AFUE rating, the less the gas is spent during the heating process.
Choosing the Right Furnace Installation Company in Calgary
Buying a new furnace is as important as choosing the right furnace installation company in Calgary. Choosing the right company ensures the proper installation, energy efficiency, and longevity of your heating system.
GSB Heating And Cooling Ltd specializes in professional furnace installation, and the company has over 12 years of experience in the heating and servicing industry. Our team of licensed and experienced HVAC technicians ensures that your new furnace is installed correctly, maximizing efficiency and performance.
Contact us today for expert advice and professional installation!
Conclusion
Buying a new furnace in Calgary is a significant but necessary investment to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the harsh winters. Understanding the types of furnaces available, key factors to consider, and choosing a reliable installation company will help you make an informed decision.
At GSB Heating and Cooling Ltd., we offer top-quality furnace installation and maintenance services to keep your home’s heating system running smoothly. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right furnace to professional installation. Want to know more? Visit our website for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best furnace for Calgary weather?
A high-efficiency natural gas furnace (90%+ AFUE) is best for Calgary’s cold winters. It provides reliable heating, cost savings, and energy efficiency.
2. How much to replace a furnace in Calgary?
Furnace replacement costs in Calgary range from $3,000 to $7,500, depending on the furnace type, brand, and installation complexity.
3. What to consider when buying a new furnace?
Key factors include fuel type, energy efficiency (AFUE rating), size, cost, brand reputation, warranty, and professional installation to ensure optimal performance.
4. What is the average life of a new furnace?
A well-maintained furnace lasts 15 to 20 years, but regular servicing can extend its lifespan and maintain efficiency.
5. Which brand of furnace is most reliable in Canada?
Top reliable brands include Lennox, Carrier, Trane, Rheem, and Goodman, known for efficiency, durability, and strong warranties.
6. What is the average cost of a furnace in Canada?
The cost varies between $1700 and $5500 and above, depending on the model, efficiency, and installation requirements.