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Can’t decide if a furnace service plan is worth it? Beyond saving you time, money, and the headache of an unexpected furnace breakdown in the dead of winter, here are some of the benefits of a service plan:

• Identification of potential breakdowns before they occur
• Piece of mind and the ensured safety and comfort for you and your family
• Lower utility bills as a result of regular maintenance
• No premium fees for emergency service
• Automatically scheduled service – so you don’t have to worry about calling to book an appointment!
• Priority service
• Discounts on furnace services provided
• Professional services from trusted experts
• Satisfaction guarantee

Heat pumps do not work in Alberta.

While heat pumps are designed to heat efficiently and cool homes by drawing heat from the outside air during cold months and expelling hot air from inside during warmer months, their effectiveness varies based on the climate.

In milder climates, heat pumps can be an excellent alternative to traditional furnaces and air conditioners. Some homeowners even prefer them for their dual functionality. However, in colder regions like Alberta, especially places like Edmonton, the efficiency of heat pumps diminishes.

The reason? As temperatures drop, heat pumps struggle to extract enough warmth from the frigid air to heat a home adequately. In contrast, traditional furnaces are specifically designed to provide consistent and reliable heat, even in the harshest of winters. For Alberta homeowners, where winters can be particularly brutal, relying solely on a heat pump can be a gamble.

Therefore, while heat pumps might be a viable option in some parts of the world, in Alberta, a traditional furnace remains the trusted and recommended choice for ensuring warmth and comfort throughout the year. There are also other and more reliable heating and cooling solutions available to Alberta homeowners.

Need a new heating system and wondering whether it’s better to rent or buy a furnace? Renting a furnace is definitely cheaper initially but is not the right option for every household.

If you rent a furnace, you will pay a monthly fee and the HVAC dealer will be responsible for maintenance and repairs. However, there are some drawbacks. It is likely that over time you will pay at least double what the furnace is worth. And, because you do not own the heating system, it does not add to the value of your home.

If you can afford to buy a new furnace this is the best option. By buying the furnace outright, you won’t pay any interest and may also be able to benefit from manufacturer or government rebates. Owning the furnace will also add to the value of your home.

The most energy-efficient furnace is one that is ENERGY STAR certified and has an efficiency rating of 97% or higher. When you see an ENERGY STAR symbol on your appliance, you can be certain that it has been certified as energy efficient. 

When it comes to the type of furnace, gas furnaces are typically the most energy-efficient. Although preferred in some situations, electric and oil furnaces are less efficient. Therefore, gas-powered furnaces are recommended.

The heating professionals at ProSolutions PHAC recommend the following high-efficiency furnaces:

• TRANE S9V2-VS Gas Furnace
• AirEase A97MV High-Efficiency Modulating Gas Furnace
• Goodman GMVM97 Modulating, Variable-Speed Gas Furnace

Furnace on the fritz? Here are a few things to check if your furnace isn’t working:

• Power switch – is the power on? If so, try turning the furnace off and then on again.
• Furnace filter – check to see if the filter is clogged. If it is, exchange it for a new one. You should be changing your furnace filter ever 3 months.
• Batteries in the thermostat – check the batteries in your thermostat and replace them if they’re low.
• Flame sensor – turn off the power to your furnace (this is an important first step) then remove the sensor and clean it.
• Pilot light – check to make sure the pilot light is on. If it’s out, relight it using your furnace model’s igniting instructions.
• Air intake and exhaust pipes – check the exhaust flue for blockages and clear any blockage you find. For example, during the winter in Alberta, you might find icicles covering the screen of the flue. Remove these to solve the problem.

If one of these is not the issue, you may need a professional to help you uncover and solve the problem. Don’t wait until it’s too late – a broken furnace, especially during an Edmonton winter, can result in broken and burst water pipes! Find a local furnace repair contractor to fix the problem as soon as possible.

A modern, high-efficiency furnace should last approximately ten to fifteen years. This is based on the average lifespan of a furnace so it is possible that yours may last longer or need to be replaced sooner. 

The key to a long-lasting furnace is regular maintenance and upkeep. It’s important to stay on top of minor furnace repairs, tune-ups, and maintenance. Scheduling regular maintenance with a professionals heating company will help to maximize the life of your furnace and minimize the need for major repairs. This is especially true in Alberta, where cold winters can take a toll on your furnace.

A local furnace company will know how to care for your furnace in this climate and what to look for if it is having issues.

The key to knowing when to replace your furnace versus when to repair it depends on its age and how many more years you can expect it to last. But, rather than humming and hawing about these questions, there is a simple equation you can use to help you decide.

This equation compares the cost of repairing the unit to the cost of replacing it. Here’s the calculation you can use to decide when you should replace your furnace:

“Cost of Repair” x “Age of Unit (in years)” > “Cost to Replace Furnace” = Replace Furnace

Multiply the cost of the furnace repair by the age of the unit. If this number is less than the cost of replacing your gas furnace, then opt for the repairs. If this number is larger, it will be cheaper to replace the furnace.

If you’re living in Alberta, in the St. Albert/Edmonton area, and you’re still unsure, talk to a local heating company. With their expert knowledge about your particular climate, they will be able to help you make a decision as to whether you should repair or replace your furnace.

A gas furnace is the most efficient way to heat your home and by far the most popular in Alberta. Gas furnaces are reliable, cost-effective, and efficient and manufacturers are continually improving their efficiency and quietness and introducing new features.

Amana is one of the best brands of furnaces, especially for homes in Alberta. Amana is one of the few furnace brands with a stainless steel heat exchanger and the only with a lifetime replacement warranty. This makes an Amana furnace a reliable option for any household.

We also think that Trane Furnaces are an exceptional option in Alberta. They have been very reliable over the past few years and look to continue that manufacturing trend.

If you’re wondering what is the best brand of furnace for your home, talk to a local heating services provider. Their expertise can help you make the best choice for your climate.