24.09.2013
Buying a New Furnace
How to Choose a New Furnace
If you’re in the market for a furnace, it’s worth taking some time to analyze your needs and research your options. After all, a good quality furnace should last you for about 20 years, so making the right choice is definitely in your best interests.
For most people, the furnace is a piece of equipment that’s easy to ignore, so having to find one you’ll be happy with for the next 20 years can seem like a daunting task! Here are some things you should consider before you call a contractor:
The Top 4 Factors in Buying a New Furnace
- Trustworthy name. When you pay for a high quality furnace, you are investing in long-term satisfaction and peace of mind. Typically, it’s worth purchasing a major brand, and in particular one that has been around for more than a few years. As a rule of thumb, if a manufacturer fails to come up on the first page of your Internet search they are probably not one of the more popular ones. Look for established manufacturers who offer at least a 20-year warranty.
- Type and size. A furnace that is too small will not heat your house properly, while a furnace that is too big will be wasteful and expensive to run. Don’t fall prey to the myth of “the bigger the better.” A good quality, fuel-efficient furnace of the correct size will heat your house just as well, and much more cost-effectively, than a bigger one. Your contractor will be able to calculate the perfect size for your home.
- Fuel efficiency. The Government of Canada has implemented energy efficiency standards for some heating equipment and other energy-consuming appliances and products. Look for the EnerGuide label. The higher the rating, the more efficient the furnace.
- Professional installation. A trained and experienced technician will install your furnace properly, ensuring that it is running to the manufacturer’s specifications and according to your home’s requirements.
Whether you are installing a new furnace, upgrading or replacing the existing one, the first and most important step is always choosing a reliable, qualified contractor. An experienced, knowledgeable contractor will have the expertise to help you select the best model, will be able to advise you on different types of fuel and will install your new furnace properly for years of reliable service.
Always choose a professional contractor with well-established experience and credentials, and look for a member of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI), or one who is affiliated with an equally established firm.
Lastly, once you have your furnace, maximize its life with regular cleaning and maintenance. RAM Cleaning Services has been offering complete cleaning care and maintenance in Calgary and area since 1967.
If you have any questions about your cleaning and maintenance needs, Call Ram Cleaning Services at 403-291-1051 and talk to one of our representatives.