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Understanding Furnaces: Choosing One & How to Make It Last

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Most people don’t think about their furnace until it stops working. Then they’re suddenly faced with a cold house and a big repair bill. But if you take the time to understand how your furnace works, you can save yourself a lot of money and headaches.

In this article, learn more about furnaces, choosing one, and making it last.

What Is a Furnace?

Your furnace is a heating system that uses either natural gas or electricity to heat your home. The furnace has a burner that ignites the gas or turns on the electric heating element. The heat from the burning gas or the electric element warms the air, which is circulated through your home by a blower.

The furnace also has a thermostat that turns the system on and off as needed to maintain the desired temperature. The thermostat is usually located on a wall in the living area of your home.

What Are the Types of Furnaces?

If you’re in the market for a new furnace, you may wonder about your options. Here’s a quick overview of the different types of furnaces available on the market today.

1. Oil Furnaces

Oil furnaces are popular in areas where natural gas is unavailable. They burn oil to produce heat and can be either direct-vent or vented through a chimney. One advantage of oil furnaces is that they can run on various fuels, including biodiesel and recycled vegetable oil.

2. Natural Gas Furnaces

Natural gas furnaces are the most common type of furnace in the United States. They burn natural gas to produce heat and are very efficient. Many newer models are also equipped with technology that improves indoor air quality.

3. Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces use electricity to generate heat. They are 100% efficient but can be more expensive than other furnaces. Electric furnaces are a good option for homes that do not have access to natural gas.

How to Protect the Lifespan of Furnaces

A well-maintained furnace can last for years, but a neglected one can break down prematurely. Here are four tips to help you protect the lifespan of your furnace.

1. Schedule Annual Maintenance

One of the best ways to protect your furnace is to schedule annual maintenance. Just like your car, your furnace needs regular tune-ups to keep it running properly.

During a maintenance visit, a technician will clean the furnace and ensure all the parts are in good working order. This can help prevent problems before they start and extend your furnace’s life.

2. Pick the Right Size Furnace for Your Home

If you’re shopping for a new furnace, pick the right size for your home. A furnace that’s too small won’t be able to keep your home warm, while a furnace that’s too big will waste energy and money.

3. Install Your Furnace Correctly

If you’re having a new furnace installed, it’s important to make sure it’s done correctly. Improper installation can lead to several problems, including decreased efficiency and premature breakdown.

4. Ensure Your Home Is Insulated and Sealed

One of the best ways to improve the efficiency of your furnace is to make sure your home is properly insulated and sealed. This will help reduce the heat that escapes through cracks and gaps in your home.

Final Thoughts

Furnaces are an important part of our daily lives, providing warmth and comfort in our homes during the colder months. It is essential to understand how they work to maintain them properly and keep your family safe. 

For furnace installation in Pickering, don’t hesitate to contact us at Climate Experts. Let us help you stay warm during the coldest winters by ensuring you have a high-quality, reliable furnace. Call or email us for more information.

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