Furnace Installation, Repairs & Service FAQs

• Do heat pumps work in Alberta?

  Heat pumps do not work in Alberta.

  A heat pump is designed to efficiently heat and cool a home. It does this by pulling in heat from the outside air when it’s cold and forcing hot air from inside your home out when the weather is hot.

  In some locations, a heat pump is a very effective method of heating and cooling. In fact, some homeowners will use a heat pump in place of a traditional furnace and air conditioner. However, in colder climates, a heat pump loses its practicality. Therefore, in places like Edmonton, as well as other areas throughout Alberta, heat pumps are not common. A heat pump in Alberta will have a difficult time keeping up with heating requirements in the winter - especially if it is a home’s only source of heat. Therefore, other heating and cooling systems are recommended for Alberta homeowners.

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• Furnace filter replacement – Do I need to change it often when using the AC?

  Furnace filter replacement is important if you're using your AC. Maybe not as frequently as in winter when monthly changes are best. But check the filter regularly to see that it is functioning properly, and replace when necessary.

  If you run your AC during the spring or fall, you will want to check your filter more often since this time of year has more allergens and particulates in the air that can cause you to become sick.

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• What is the difference between a boiler and a hot water tank?

  The difference between a boiler and a hot water tank has to do with the way in which each uses the hot water that it produces.

  Both boilers and hot water tanks take cool water, heat this water and then distribute it throughout a home via pipes. However, the water that is heated by a boiler is distributed throughout the home via pipes, radiators and radiant in-floor systems in order to heat it - to keep the rooms, floors, garage, etc. comfortable and warm.

  On the other hand, a hot water tank heats water that is used for cooking and cleaning purposes - for showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.

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• Is boiler heat expensive in Edmonton?

  Boiler heat is not expensive on a day-to-day basis. In fact, you may save in energy costs when heating your house with a boiler compared to a furnace.

  However, installing a boiler is typically more complex and therefore more expensive than installing a furnace. On average, a boiler will cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 to purchase and install (depending on the brand and the system’s energy efficiency rating). Plus, your home will need extensive modifications to make a boiler system work - radiant heating must be implemented.

  On the other hand, the average cost to buy and install a furnace in Edmonton is only $3,500 to $7,500. With boiler heat, you will save in the long run but will have to pay more upfront.

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• How long does it take to install a new boiler in Edmonton?

  It shouldn’t take a professional heating company in Edmonton too long to install a new boiler. For a simple boiler replacement, you can expect a trained professional to take between 4 and 6 hours.

  Your new boiler will be up and running in less than a day. However, installing a brand new boiler, where one didn’t exist before, is a bigger job. Upgrading your current boiler to a different system or moving your boiler to a new location can also be more involved and will take a bit longer.

  Because these jobs are more complex, they may take a team of professionals a few days to complete. Typically, you can expect to wait no more than a week for your new system to be up and ready!

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• How long do boilers last?

  Boilers can last a really long time. In fact, the average lifespan of a boiler is 10 to 15 years. In order to extend the life of your boiler, it’s important to ensure that it is properly maintained and serviced on a regular basis. Even the best boiler will require maintenance and repairs from time to time.

  If your boiler is giving you signs that it needs attention, make sure to hire a professional heating company to do the job. This will ensure your boiler lasts as long as possible. Some signs to keep an eye out for include: low water pressure, no heat coming from your radiators, banging noises, a pilot light that keeps going out or isn’t blue.

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• Are furnace service plans worth it?

  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 occurPiece of mind and the ensured safety and comfort for you and your familyLower utility bills as a result of regular maintenanceNo premium fees for emergency serviceAutomatically scheduled service - so you don’t have to worry about calling to book an appointment!Priority serviceDiscounts on furnace services providedProfessional services from trusted expertsSatisfaction guarantee

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• What is a residential boiler?

  A residential boiler system is used to heat a household. The boiler heats water inside a tank and distributes this hot water (or, in some cases, steam) via pipes, radiators and/or a radiant in-floor system in order to heat the inside of a home. Once the water has cooled and can no longer provide heat, it is sent back to the boiler to be reheated.

  Although the name might suggest otherwise, modern-day boilers do not boil water. The term boiler comes from the fact that, in the past, steam boilers were common. Steam boilers boil water in order to create steam for heating purposes. Today, however, most boilers are water heating systems that distribute hot water, rather than steam, in order to heat a house.

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• How do I know if my furnace is leaking carbon monoxide?

  If there is a crack in the heat exchanger of your heating system, your furnace could be leaking carbon monoxide (CO). This can be dangerous for you and your family, as CO can cause serious bodily harm and even result in death.

  Carbon monoxide is a colourless, tasteless and odourless gas and therefore is not easily detected, especially in small quantities.

  Your furnace may be leaking carbon monoxide if you or other members of your household are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  HeadacheWeaknessDizzinessNausea or vomitingFeeling hungoverShortness of breathConfusionBlurred visionLoss of consciousness

  If you think your furnace is leaking carbon monoxide contact a local heating company right away. If you think you are experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, please seek professional medical advice immediately.

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• What is the best brand of furnace for homes in Alberta?

  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.

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• What is a BTU?

  Shopping for a new furnace and wondering what are BTUs? BTU stands for British Thermal Unit - a value traditionally assigned to heat. Technically, a single BTU is the amount of energy that is necessary to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit at sea level. As far as a heating system goes, BTUs refer to the amount of heat that a furnace is able to output.

  When it comes to furnaces, the larger the square footage that needs to be heated, the more BTUs you’ll require. For example, it’s suggested that a 1,500 square foot home has a furnace that is able to output 45,000 to 90,000 BTUs.

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• Is it better to rent or buy a furnace?

  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.

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• How often should a furnace filter be changed?

  Furnace filters should be changed every three months. Regularly changing your filter will ensure the air quality inside your home, as well as the safety and comfort of you and your family. In addition, regularly changing the filter will ensure your furnace doesn’t overheat, resulting in damage or an unexpected breakdown.

  Preventative maintenance like this extends the longevity of your furnace and helps reduce maintenance and repair fees.

  Not sure how long ago your filter was changed or if it needs to be replaced? A heating services provider can take a look at your filter and let you know if it should be replaced with a new one.

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• What does a furnace tune-up service include?

  A professional technician will have an extensive checklist to go through when providing furnace tune-up service and maintenance. The items on this list cover every part of your furnace in order to ensure that it is in top working condition.

  Some of the most important items included in this furnace service checklist are:

  Vent, blower, and ductwork cleaningInspection of the flue for damage and dentsExamination of all belts and their tensionAdjustment of the furnace’s pilot light flameCalibration of the thermostatVisual inspection of all electrical wiringInspection of the furnace filterCleaning and removing any debris

  A checklist that includes no less than 22 points of inspection should be used during your furnace service.

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• How much does furnace servicing/tune-ups cost?

  The cost of servicing your furnace can cost between $150 - $500 per visit, depending on what is being done and the type of furnace you have in your home.

  On average, heating and plumbing companies charge a rate of $150 - $300 per hour. However, if you have a membership to a Service Partner Plan, or another annual plan, you can reduce your cost. 

  By signing up for a plan with a local furnace company in Edmonton like ProSolutions Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, and scheduling regular servicing, you can save money on the services provided and in energy costs. 

  As well as the cost savings, regular servicing will help to prevent your system from encountering any unexpected problems - especially important during the long winter months.

  Check our Furnace Offers & Coupons section for deals on Furnace Tune-ups & Servicing. We always offer competitive pricing too.

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• How often should you have your furnace serviced?

  If you live in Edmonton or other northern areas your furnace should be professionally serviced once per year. This will prevent you from having to get expensive furnace repairs or replacements and will extend the life of your furnace.

  In fact, regularly scheduled inspections and service on your heating system can help identify potential breakdowns and reduce emergency repairs by as much as 95%! Regular service can also lower utility bills by up to 30%.

  Harsh winters in Edmonton, and other Albertan cities, can take a toll on heating systems. A company that provides furnace service and maintenance will ensure that everything is in top working condition so that you can rely on your furnace all through the winter without having to worry about issues or failures.

  Here's how much furnace tune-ups & servicing costs in Edmonton.

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• What size furnace do I need?

  The size of the furnace you’ll need largely depends on the size of your home. Size recommendations based on square footage are:

  1,200 square foot home: 36,000 to 72,000 BTUs
  1,500 square foot home: 45,000 to 90,000 BTUs
  1,800 square foot home: 54,000 to 108,000 BTUs
  2,100 square foot home: 63,000 to 126,000 BTUs
  2,400 square foot home: 72,000 to 144,000 BTUs

  Other factors that affect the size of the new furnace installation you’ll need include:

  Climate zone (for example, Edmonton is in Climate Zone 5)Quality of insulationWindow thicknessCeiling heightNumber of people living in your homePreferred temperatureSize and state of the basement

  For more info om furnace shopping, read our full article on "how to choose the right furnace".

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• How long does it take to install a new furnace in Alberta?

  It typically takes between four and eight hours to install a new furnace in Edmonton or the surrounding areas. However, install time can vary depending on factors like the age of your home and the condition of its wiring and ductwork. 

  No need to worry about spending a long night freezing inside your home during an Albertan winter. A professional furnace company can have your new furnace up and running within a day to keep you and your family comfortable and warm!

  When getting free furnace installation quotes in Edmonton area, make sure to ask how long the installation is expected to take. Local furnace companies will have a good idea based on their experience in your area.

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• How does ProSolutions Inc. install a furnace?

  There are several steps involved in installing your new furnace. These steps will vary depending on the furnace you choose, your home's existing furnace system, and any changes you want.

  Align the new furnace with existing gas lines and ductworkConnect and seal to the ducting systemConnect intake and exhaust pipesConnect the gas lineConnect the furnace to the electrical supply and thermostatConnect the furnace to a drain hole

  At this point, it’s important to check your work, make sure everything is connected properly and there are no gas leaks. 

  Please note: these steps are extremely simplified and meant to provide an overview to understand the professional furnace installation process better. It is highly recommended that you have your furnace professionally installed in order to avoid dangerous problems and issues with your new furnace. Having to get furnace repairs on your new unit would not be covered under warranty without professional installation.

  Hiring a professional will be more costly initially but will save you money in the long run.

  Here's how long it takes to install a new furnace.

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• Can I install my own furnace?

  Unless you’re a trained professional, it’s not a good idea to attempt to install your own furnace. Yes, you’ll save money now but the issues and damage that can occur from an improperly installed furnace can result in costs far beyond what you would have spent to hire professionals to do your install. 

  Hiring a professional heating services provider in your area to install, maintain, and repair your furnace is always the best way to go. This will save you time and money in the long run. In addition to properly installing and calibrating your new furnace system, technicians are trained to help you find the perfect size furnace for your home. This will ensure that your furnace is not too big or too small. This, as well as the additional services provided by professional technicians during installation, including the calibration of your thermostat, will result in a highly-efficient furnace that will save you money in energy costs.

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• When should I replace my gas furnace?

  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.

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• What’s the cost to repair a furnace in Edmonton area?

  It can cost anywhere from $150 to $1,500 to repair a furnace, depending on the issue. If you’re in the Stony Plain/Edmonton area, the average cost to repair a furnace will be around $700.

  Make sure the furnace company you choose to do your repairs is upfront with their pricing. They should be able to provide you with the price ahead of time so that you know exactly what to expect before moving ahead!

  Want to save some money? Often professional heating and plumbing companies will offer a Service Partner Plan. This type of plan will help you keep on top of the regular maintenance your furnace needs for a fraction of the price. Regular furnace tune-ups and maintenance will help prevent any major issues, saving you from repairs and replacements that could cost you thousands of dollars! With plans like this, there is often a discount for members, meaning you’ll save money with every visit.

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• What to check if your furnace isn’t working

  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.

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• Furnace stopped working?Why this happens

  A furnace could stop working for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, furnaces stop working because of:

  Blocked or clogged vents, blowers, and/or ductworkA dirty, clogged filterThermostat malfunctions (or just a low battery)Problem with your power supplyDamage to the flueIssues with beltsProblems with the pilot lightWiring issues

  Winters in Edmonton, Alberta can be cold! Avoid layers upon layers of sweaters - if you’re experiencing any of the following issues, get your furnace repaired right away: 

  Strange smells, like burning or chemicals You can’t turn the furnace onInadequate and inconsistent heat. For example, some rooms are hotter than others and some rooms have no heat at all.Loud, banging or rattling noises

  If you are in Edmonton and surrounding area, contact ProSolutions Inc, we'd love to be your HVAC company of choice. If you're outside of our service area, contact a local furnace company with top ratings on Google.

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• How long should a furnace last?

  A modern, high-efficiency furnace should last approximately fifteen to twenty 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.

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• What is the most energy-efficient furnace?

  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 FurnaceAirEase A97MV High-Efficiency Modulating Gas FurnaceGoodman GMVM97 Modulating, Variable-Speed Gas Furnace

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