Furnace Buying Guide
March 10, 2025
Furnace Buying Guide
At Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating, we understand that purchasing a new furnace is a significant investment. Whether you’re replacing an aging system or installing a furnace in a new home, choosing the right one requires careful consideration of several factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Furnace
When selecting a furnace, it’s crucial to evaluate these key aspects:
1. Home Size and Layout
- The size of your home directly affects the furnace capacity needed.
- High ceilings, large windows, and insulation quality impact heating requirements.
- A properly sized furnace ensures efficiency and avoids excessive energy costs.
2. Efficiency Ratings
- Furnace efficiency is measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating.
- A 96% AFUE furnace means only 4% of the energy is lost, making it an excellent choice.
- While modulating furnaces (98-99% AFUE) exist, they often require custom ductwork and may not be ideal for every home.
- We typically recommend two-stage furnaces (96% AFUE) for better energy efficiency and control.
3. Type of Furnace
- Gas Furnaces: The most common and efficient option in British Columbia.
- Electric Furnaces: Rare in our area but available.
- Oil Furnaces: Uncommon, but some older homes may still use them.
- At Willowbrook, we specialize in gas furnaces due to their efficiency and reliability.
4. Installation Considerations
- Retrofitting a furnace may require ductwork modifications, especially when switching from a boiler.
- Some installations require venting adjustments to meet building codes.
- A professional assessment is necessary to determine installation feasibility and costs.
5. Longevity and Maintenance
- Regular furnace maintenance extends the lifespan of your furnace.
- High-efficiency furnaces require annual servicing to prevent performance issues.
- Choosing a reputable brand with strong support is key. We recommend brands like Goodman for their reliability and service backing.
Smart Features and Additional Considerations
Modern furnaces offer advanced features that improve efficiency and comfort:
1. Smart Thermostats
- Options like the Honeywell T6 Wi-Fi Thermostat allow remote control via smartphone.
- Avoid models like the Nest thermostat, which may interfere with proper furnace operation.
2. Variable Speed Motors
- Furnaces with ECM motors provide adjustable speeds for improved airflow and efficiency.
- Unlike variable-speed motors, ECM motors allow technicians more control over settings.
3. Zoning Systems
- Multi-zone heating can enhance comfort in larger homes.
- However, zoning systems require additional setup and may not be necessary for every home.
Choosing the Right Furnace for Your Home
Selecting the right furnace isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. That’s why we offer free consultations to assess your home’s heating needs and recommend the best solution. Our technicians consider factors such as:
- Ductwork layout
- Number of vents
- Home insulation
- Additional heat sources (e.g., electric baseboards in suites)
We also ensure that any furnace we install comes with strong manufacturer support, so you won’t be left waiting weeks for replacement parts.
Choose a Reliable Furnace For Your Langley Home
Investing in the right furnace can improve energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and ensure long-term comfort. At Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating, we pride ourselves on helping homeowners choose reliable, high-performing systems tailored to their needs.
For a professional assessment and installation, contact us today!
