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How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Home

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How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Home

Posted On: January 3, 2025

How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Home

Choosing the right furnace for your home is a significant decision that affects your comfort, energy bills, and long-term satisfaction. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice:



1. Understand Furnace Types

  • Gas Furnaces: Cost-effective for homes with natural gas access, offering high efficiency and lower operational costs.
  • Electric Furnaces: Ideal for areas without gas lines; they are less expensive to install but may have higher energy costs.
  • Oil Furnaces: A good choice for colder climates, where oil is a cheaper and accessible fuel source.
  • Propane Furnaces: Suitable for areas without natural gas, offering flexibility and portability.
  • Dual-Fuel Systems: Combine a heat pump with a gas furnace for efficiency in fluctuating temperatures.

2. Consider Furnace Efficiency (AFUE Rating)

  • AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): Measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into heat. Higher ratings mean better efficiency.
    • Standard Efficiency: 80–89% AFUE.
    • High Efficiency: 90% AFUE or higher.
  • Opt for high-efficiency models to save on energy costs over time.

3. Size the Furnace Correctly

  • Load Calculation: A professional HVAC contractor can perform a load calculation considering your home's size, insulation, windows, and climate.
  • Oversized furnaces cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy.
  • Undersized units struggle to heat your home adequately.

4. Evaluate Zoning and Compatibility

  • If your home has multiple zones, choose a furnace compatible with a zoning system for customized temperature control.
  • Check for compatibility with smart thermostats or other home automation systems.

5. Look for Advanced Features

  • Variable-Speed Blowers: Provide consistent airflow and better temperature control.
  • Two-Stage or Modulating Burners: Adjust heat output based on demand for greater efficiency.
  • Noise Reduction Features: Ensure quiet operation, especially important for indoor installations.

6. Review Installation and Maintenance Costs

  • Choose a trusted, licensed HVAC contractor for installation.
  • Factor in maintenance costs for the type of furnace you select, as gas and oil models may require annual inspections and cleaning.

7. Consider Your Climate

  • In colder climates, a gas or oil furnace is often more effective and cost-efficient.
  • In milder climates, an electric furnace or heat pump may suffice.

8. Set a Budget

  • Balance upfront costs with long-term savings. While high-efficiency models may cost more initially, they typically reduce energy bills over time.
  • Check for rebates, tax credits, or financing options to make energy-efficient furnaces more affordable.

9. Research Brands and Warranties

  • Choose reliable brands with strong warranties to ensure quality and peace of mind.
  • Look for reviews and ratings to gauge customer satisfaction and performance.

10. Consult an HVAC Professional

  • An experienced professional can assess your specific needs and recommend the best furnace for your home.

By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to choose a furnace that ensures comfort, efficiency, and reliability for years to come.



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by David from Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I first met Greg and Grant (The Twin Brothers from Twin Tech - yup -it's not just a cool company name) back in 2014 when our furnace broke down and they installed our Carrier Furnace and AC that we purchased through Sears. I liked them instantly when I met them due to their friendly and professional service, and the fact that they didn't mind taking a little extra time to explain things in terms I could understand. Since that time they have reached out to me at least once a year to ensure that everything was running smoothly with my system and to keep me appraised of their evolving services. Due to this high level of proactive customer service I didn't hesitate to call and obtain their help for a Gas Stove removal and installation. When I scheduled the call Greg and Grant let me know that they would arrive the morning of the appliance delivery to disconnect the old gas stove, and then return in the afternoon to connect the new stove. Sure enough, they did just that as promised. Where they exceeded my expectations is with the extra level of support helping to assemble the burners and grills on the stove and in the oven. This may seem like a small thing to some but to my wife who was at home during this entire process it meant a stress free transition to the meal prep for the day. When I called home to ask about the install she commented that, "they left the place cleaner than it was when they arrived and they setup all the grills on top of the stove and in the oven... they didn't have to do all that -Wow!". You know what they say, Happy Wife, Happy Life. So in summary, I am recommending Twintech Heating & Cooling for all of your Furnace, Air Conditioning, and Gas Line needs. I've even called on these guys to help swap out a leaky water valve. They are just so easy to reach and communicate with by phone, and they don't mind a text message to confirm the details. You can rest easy when you have the Twins on your side as an extension of your household maintenance plan.

by Jr in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

First thing, they actually showed up for a quote. Other big name companies in the area didn't even return my call , job was done as expected and new equipment is quiet and installed very clean and professional. Would highly recommend these guys.

by Melissa P. from Port Hope on Twintech Heating and Cooling

They removed our old furnace and replaced it with a new furnace and AC system.

by Nancy H. from Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Work was performed in a clean and timely manner. The furnace and metal work was performed by the Twintech team (did not require separate contractor to do the metal work). Energy audit was arranged and promised rebates were received. The overall price was very competitive. We have recommended Twintech to several of our friends and family. Awesome job.

by Syd from Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Grant and Greg installed a heating and AC system in our new Linwood post and beam home. Post and beam can be challenging structures for running ductwork and their high ceilings and open concept frequently frustrate efforts at balancing air flow and controlling temperatures. But these guys did it and did it right the first time. Even the building inspector was impressed with what he saw. More importantly, the boys brought a high degree of trust and integrity to the job. Something in short supply these days.

by jenner iksmom from Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very polite and professional. They removed my o
ld furnace and A/C and installed my new ones. They were efficient and thoroughly cleaned up when they were done! I would highly recommend them!

by Rob from Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Pro from start to finish. They were able to fix my gas fireplace at very little cost as well.

by murray mcmichael from Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Excellent installation very knowledgeable gentlemen! Would highly recommend them to all my friends for any hvac work !

by Private User from Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I have used Twintech many times over the years. They always arrive quickly and get the issue fixed. The most recent incident was when my air conditioner broke last week I called Greg at 11:30am and he was at my home by 2:30pm he had the unit fixed by 3:30pm. Twintech are very reliable and honest and they are experts in the field. I have already recommended them to many of my friends. I would not use anyone but them for my heating and air conditioning issues.

by Kate A in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I would highly recommend these guys, professional, fast and competitive pricing. I moved into this place with no working AC unit with a 8 month baby, he was able to come with in a week to fix even in the busy summer days. He really values his customers , I am already recommending to my neighbors.

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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.

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