Your furnace is considered one of the most necessary large appliances in your home, especially here in Manitoba where winters can be long, cold, and extremely harsh. At times, it can feel like it is running around the clock just to keep your home comfortable. With that said, your energy bills can be pretty high during these months. So, what happens if you’ve noticed those energy bills creeping up as of late? If your furnace is older, there’s a good chance it’s no longer energy efficient, which means you’re spending much more than is necessary.
If you’ve made the decision to shop around for a new furnace that will be more economical in terms of your energy bills, here are some tips to keep in mind. These will help ensure you find the right model for your needs.
Consider the Square Footage of Your Home
The first thing that you’re going to have to consider is the size of your home. The larger the home, the bigger the furnace you will need in order to properly and consistently keep it warm and comfortable. The system size is described as BTUs or tons, and the size is calculated based on your square footage, including your windows. This is why it’s always good to have a contractor come to your home to offer a quote, as it’s the best way to get an accurate figure.
Ask About the Energy Efficiency of the Unit
It's also important you don't just assume that by purchasing a new furnace it will be a high-efficiency model. You need to specifically look for these models and make it clear to the contractor that you want something that will lower your bills. Some units will be much more efficient than others, so it’s best to ask questions.
Take for example Shorty's Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning which offers furnace repairs and installation of high-efficiency furnaces Winnipeg. It offers a variety of York models that range from good, to better, to best when it comes to energy efficiency and reducing your bills.
What About the Fuel Type?
You also need to know what fuel type it is that you're looking for. If you're unsure, a contractor can easily take a look and let you know.
Is There a Warranty?
When you're buying a brand-new furnace, it is a pretty large investment, so you also want to be sure that the model has a warranty. Get all the details on what the warranty includes and how long it lasts.
Ask About Regular Maintenance
While this isn't specific to the model you purchase, it's still a good idea to get the installer's advice on how often the furnace should be serviced and cleaned. Keeping up with a regular maintenance schedule will drastically increase its lifespan.
Each of these tips will help you to find the perfect furnace for your needs that will help to decrease what you’re spending on energy bills.
