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How to Choose the Best Furnace for Your Climate and Budget

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How to Choose the Best Furnace for Your Climate and Budget

Posted On: December 10, 2024

How to Choose the Best Furnace for Your Climate and Budget

Selecting the right furnace for your home involves balancing the needs of your local climate with your financial considerations. Here’s how you can make an informed choice:



1. Understand Furnace Types

There are three main types of furnaces, each with its benefits and costs:


  • Gas Furnaces: Efficient for cold climates, lower operating costs in areas with affordable natural gas.
  • Electric Furnaces: More affordable upfront, suitable for milder climates with lower heating needs.
  • Oil Furnaces: Ideal for rural areas without gas lines; higher operating costs but effective in extreme cold.

2. Assess Energy Efficiency

The efficiency of a furnace is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE):


  • 80-85% AFUE: Standard efficiency, suitable for mild climates or homes with limited heating needs.
  • 90%+ AFUE: High efficiency, recommended for cold climates or those looking to save on long-term energy costs.

Higher efficiency furnaces may cost more upfront but save on energy bills over time.



3. Consider Climate

  • Cold Climates: A high-efficiency gas or oil furnace is recommended to handle prolonged heating needs.
  • Mild Climates: An electric furnace or standard-efficiency gas furnace may suffice, as heating demands are lower.

4. Determine Your Budget

  • Initial Costs: Gas and oil furnaces typically cost more upfront compared to electric models.
  • Operating Costs: Natural gas is generally the cheapest to operate, followed by oil and then electricity. Consider local energy rates.
  • Maintenance Costs: Gas and oil furnaces require more regular maintenance than electric models.

5. Factor in Size and Installation

  • Proper Sizing: A furnace that’s too large or small for your home can lead to inefficiency and discomfort. Work with an HVAC professional to calculate the right size based on your home’s square footage and insulation.
  • Installation Costs: High-efficiency models may require additional setup, such as venting systems, which can increase installation costs.

6. Evaluate Advanced Features

Modern furnaces often include features that improve performance and convenience:


  • Variable-Speed Blowers: Enhance efficiency and maintain even temperatures.
  • Zoning Systems: Allow precise control of heating in different areas of the home.
  • Smart Thermostats: Improve efficiency and offer remote control.

7. Research Rebates and Incentives

Many energy-efficient furnaces qualify for government or utility rebates. Check for programs in your area to offset the initial costs.



8. Consult an HVAC Professional

A professional can assess your home’s heating needs, recommend the most suitable furnace, and ensure proper installation for maximum efficiency.



By considering these factors, you can find a furnace that keeps your home comfortable, aligns with your budget, and performs efficiently for years to come.



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Kevin, Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We contacted TwinTech after having another ductless air-conditioning company come in to quote on a solution for our townhouse. We had a unique problem where my office was a hot spot - it's at the front of the unit and gets a lot of sun. If it's 20C outside, It's 29C in my office. The other company could not build a solution that would get a ductless unit to that room because of the location - the AC unit would have to be at the rear, and ductless systems would have to be on that side of the interior. TwinTech suggested a hybrid solution to fit our unique problem, where the ductless unit would move cold air to an air exchanger installed in our bedroom closet, and then they built a ducted vent system between all the upper rooms. This was less intrusive than building a central air system, and less expensive. Each room has a vent that I can close off, so I can push more cold air to my office when needed. We really didn't want ductless units sitting on the walls, and this looks and works better. I really appreciate the extra thought and care that went into the design of a solution, and the attention to detail in the installation. They answered all of our questions, and were able to do a bit extra by installing the ducts around the vents and painting them for us. It cost more than we originally planned for, due to our unique needs, but the fact that they offered financing helped us budget for more.
The job was done fast (I think we got lucky with timing where it wasn't the AC install busy season yet), and the team was very friendly and professional. They arrived and finished each day when they said they would. My office is now running at a comfortable temperature! I'm extremely happy with the experience and would whole heartedly recommend them.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

How lucky are we to have this team come save us from our broken down, under sold, poorly installed previous unit (mind you there is a reason SEARS went bankrupt). Bob arrived on time to give us a detailed review of our unit and furnace; very knowledgeable. Greg arrived as planned with the new unit and reiterated what Bob explained how our furnace is equipped to handle the new unit and we didnt need to spend more money on a variable speed air conditioner. Cant say enough on how professional, efficient and personable this team is. Thank you so much guys!

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We used Twintech for our replacement AC. Bob did a great job assessing what we needed and organized the install and showed up on install date. Greg and Mitch were on time and were very neat. They covered the traffic areas with a drop cloth and did an excellent install. Great clean up after install complete. Would recommend Twintech for heating and cooling.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

They were fantastic, clean, freindly, great service. Would definitely recommend. Answered ally questions and more.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We woke up at about 7 a.m. the Sunday morning before Valentine's Day to a house that was barely 15 degrees Celsius on a really cold day. We tried to call some other suppliers but no answer or call back. We did a quick google search and Twintech came up. Had never dealt with them before. They had a chat line and lo & behold, someone answered; Greg. Helped us diagnose that our 40 year old furnace pilot light was out and walked us through how to relight it. All worked well; he even called me during this process. No charge I was told when asked.
15 minutes later, the pilot went out. It would not stay lit. Greg had Bob call us and we set up a meeting for about 11 a.m. that same Sunday.
Bob walked us through the options and even brought 3 electric space heaters for us to use. By Tuesday afternoon, we had a new Furnace and central air installed.

The team was helpful, responsive and respectful. Very glad we found them by accident and looking forward to a nice cool summer after a warm winter.

Thanks guys!

by Furnace And Humidifier Install on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Dealing with Bob and the installation crew was a pleasure. They took the time to explain everything. What would benefit us the most and the price difference. They were in and out in a reasonable time frame and fit us in within a couple days of original meeting. Quality of work is excellent as well.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

A pleasure dealing with Bob ,Spencer and Mitch . They are professional and they also observe the covid 19 precautions . Bob explained the whole process and got the new furnace up the next day . Highly recommend

by Gary Monson, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Would like to thank TwinTech for their quick response to our furnace repair. We used TwinTech to install a new furnace and AC a few years
back. Our furnace started to have problems early in the evening of extremely cold night. Contacted TwinTech and they were able make a service call later that evening. They got the furnace going and came the next day to replace a part. The part was under warranty and there was
no charge for either service call!
We are extremely happy with their customer service and would highly recommend them.
Gary & Kelly

by Paul, Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

This is the second time we have had Twintech to our house. A couple of summers ago they were in for an issue with our air conditioning. This time it was our furnace having an issue. It was shutting off randomly and not coming back on. Greg came right away and took the time to investigate thoroughly and explain what was going with the furnace. Both times I have been thoroughly impressed with their speed, customer service, and quality of work. I HIGHLY recommend Twintech.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Extremely happy.
So we were in no rush to replace our old units and took the time to do some research and get a number of quotes.
Twintech came in at around the middle of the pack for price but what convinced us to go with them was Bob, the representative that came to our house. Bob was by far the most professional of all the reps that we met with. He took the time to explain everything, what would work best for us and why. He really did seem very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his stuff.
As promised on the day of install the crew showed up on time and got to work with minimal impact on us
..they were professional, clean, tidy and got the system up and running ahead of schedule...they made a couple of adjustments to the system to optimize it for our house.
The crew left the house clean and tidy.
Bob the rep showed up to check in and give us a few tips ..
It's been a week since install and all is good.
Our overall experience with Twintech has been excellent from start to finish and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
Thank u.

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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

by Anna Chin on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Amazing experience with TwinTech Heating & Cooling! Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient from start to finish. They installed my new furnace quickly and left everything spotless. The technicians took the time to explain everything and made sure I was comfortable with the system before they left. Great customer service and fair pricing. I highly recommend them for anyone needing HVAC services!

by Connor Agnew on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience all around. Bob was sharp and easy to talk to, and Greg handled the installation perfectly. Would hire them again in a heartbeat.

Unique heat pump situation, insight appreciated

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  • - September 25, 2023

I live in a duplex from 1886. I own it, and live in the second and third levels. The second level has forced air. Since the air was added, it has been renovated, and it leaves the majority of duct work in stupid spots. We also do not have

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Easy Ways to Lower the Energy Costs of Your AC

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Lowering the energy costs of your air conditioning (AC) system can be achieved through a combination of simple habits, routine maintenance, and strategic upgrades. Here are some easy and effective ways to reduce your AC energy costs: 1. Regular Ma

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