Updated October 2024
Ottawa Heating Guide Introduction
At Francis Plumbing Heating and Cooling we know how important having a reliable and efficient heating system is for homeowners to stay warm during Ottawa’s cold winters. To help we have created this comprehensive guide to home heating systems including furnaces, heat pumps, and boilers. Whether you are considering a new heating system installation or looking to maintain your current home furnace, this guide is for you. We’ll explore the various types of heating systems, maintenance tips, repair advice, and energy-saving tips to ensure your home remains comfortable all season long.
What This Guide Covers:
- Home heating types - furnaces, heat pumps and boilers - and detailed information on the uses, features and benefits of each one
- The various ways to fund the cost of new heating equipment including outright purchasing, financing and rental
- Heating equipment maintenance and troubleshooting tips
- Energy saving tips to help you reduce your home heating bills and carbon footprint
Different Types of Heating Systems
Select Heating System Type:
Furnace
Heat Pump
Boiler
Furnaces - What to Know
Types of Furnaces
Single Stage Furnace:
A single stage furnace is the most basic type and only has 2 settings: completely on or completely off. When it’s on, it comes on at full capacity, and when the thermostat is satisfied it shuts off on its own.
This option is budget friendly as it requires a low upfront cost, however, it’s not the most efficient as you get somewhat uneven heat throughout the house.
Two- Stage Furnace:
A two-stage furnace has 2 settings while the furnace is on, it has a high setting and a medium setting. This furnace is quieter and gives you better temperature control in your home.
This option is a great balance between cost and efficiency. While this option is more expensive than the single stage furnace, it is more energy efficient.
Modulating Furnace:
A modulating furnace is a more advanced type of heating technology that runs in very precise increments to maintain your home’s temperature. This reduces temperature fluctuation in your home and allows for a more comfortable space.
This type of furnace is the highest performing and most efficient, making it the most expensive upfront.
Technology Used in Today's Furnaces
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Many modern furnaces allow you to monitor and control the temperature remotely through your phone using an app. This helps with convenience and maintenance.
Quiet Operation
Today’s furnaces are significantly quieter than older models due to the use of advanced materials for insulation and design modifications to minimize vibrations and air turbulence.
Types of Fueling Options
This is the most popular type of furnace and is a top choice for many Canadian homeowners because it’s a safe and reliable solution for heating homes. Gas furnaces have become more advanced in recent years and use technology to connect to other home appliances like smart learning thermostats.
Advantages
- Gas is often cheaper than oil or propane making it more cost effective
- Most gas furnaces have an efficiency rating of 96% and above
- Gas burns cleaner than other fossil fuels like oil or coal
- There’s a variety of gas furnaces available making it easy to find one that fits the needs of your home
- Not dependent on electricity for fuel
- Many modern gas furnaces are smaller
Disadvantages
- In rural areas in Ottawa, like Osgoode, gas may not be available
- It’s important that gas furnaces are inspected regularly so scheduling annual maintenance is a priority
- Ducts are required with gas furnaces
Propane furnaces are most common in rural areas or where other fuels are scarce / unavailable. A propane tank is installed outside of your home and connected to the furnace for operation. Keep in mind, your propane tank will need to be refilled as it’s used to fuel your furnace.
Advantages
- Not dependent on electricity for fuel
- Most modern models of propane furnaces have high AFUE ratings of 92% to 98.5%
- Propane is readily available across Canada, including remote areas
Disadvantages
- It’s usually more expensive than a gas furnace but less expensive than electric
- Propane tank needs to be refilled by a licensed and certified professional
- Propane furnaces require ductwork
- Need to be inspected regularly by a professional
An oil furnace is great if you live in a rural area and other fuel, such as gas, is not as accessible. Oil furnaces have decreased in popularity as operating costs, efficiency and emissions are significant concerns.
Advantages
- Oil is more readily accessible as most regions of Canada have access to oil
- Can be paired with a thermostat to control temperature
Disadvantages
Oil furnaces tend to be more costly than gas or propane furnaces
- Operate less efficiently than most modern gas and propane furnaces
- Ductwork is required to heat home
- Regular maintenance is required to keep it operating efficiently
Electric furnaces generate heat using electric heater elements controlled by circuit breakers.
Advantages
- Electric furnaces are extremely environmentally friendly as they contribute almost nothing to carbon emissions
- Easier installation because they don’t require a flue or venting system which simplifies the installation process
- Electric furnaces can be powered by renewable energy sources like solar panels
Disadvantages
- More costly to operate than other fueling options
- Look at other heating system options like heat pumps
- Energy Tip
Check the annual fuel utilization efficiency A.K.A AFUE rating on your equipment. The higher the rating, the more efficient your furnace is.
How a Furnace Works
A furnace works by pulling in cool indoor air into the furnace, heating it, and redistributing it back into the house.
The burner inside the furnace ignites the fuel with gas, propane or oil. The heat from the burning fuel is transferred to the heat exchange which is a metal chamber that heats up as the combustion gasses pass through.
The chamber is designed to transfer heat from the burner to the air inside the furnace while keeping the combustion gasses separate from the air that will be circulated in your home.
Once the heat exchanger is warm, the blower fan turns on and draws cool air from your home into the furnace through return ducts. The warm air is pushed through your home’s ductwork through the blower fan and is distributed to various rooms in your house, increasing the overall temperature.
Electric furnaces work differently as they use a resistive element that heats up and does not ignite fuel or heat a heat exchanger.
- Energy Tip
When selecting a furnace make sure it’s ENERGY STAR rated. An ENERGY STAR rated gas furnace uses 6% less energy and an oil furnace uses 9% less energy, on average. ENERGY STAR rated appliances ensure you’re getting an energy efficient option and will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.
Heat Pumps - What to Know
Types of Heat Pumps
There are many types of heat pumps available so there’s bound to be a perfect one that best suits your Ottawa home.
This type of heat pump is ideal for homes equipped with ducts, as it leverages your home’s existing duct work to distribute heating and cooling evenly throughout your home.
Image Source: Clean BC BetterHomes
This type of heat pump does not rely on traditional duct work. It’s comprised of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units (usually wall or ceiling mounted)
Image Source: Clean BC Better Homes
This is a combination of an electric HVAC system and a fossil fuel based HVAC system. This usually means a heat pump paired with a high efficiency natural gas or propane furnace.
Image Source: Grundofos
- Also known as geothermal heat pumps, transfer heat between the ground and your home. This kind of system stands out for their remarkable efficiency and low operating costs.
- According to Natural Resource Canada, they can be up to 65% more cost-effective to run than electric furnaces and 10-20% more cost effective than air source heat pumps.
- Installing this type of heat pump requires the placement of long underground pipes that take up a lot of ground space, which makes this very well-suited for rural areas such as Greely, Constance Bay, and Dunrobin.
Image Source: Energy Education
This type of heat pump uses a hydronic distribution system to heat or cool any part of your home – through radiators, in-floor heating/cooling, domestic hot water, air handlers, or even pools and hot tubs.
Image Source: Idronics
Advantages and Disadvantages of Heat Pumps
Advantages | Disadvantages |
Save on utility bills Since heat pumps work to transfer heat and not generate it, they will help you heat your home more efficiently than a standard furnace. This results in savings on your winter energy bills. Overtime, your utility bills add up and will end up costing more than the upfront amount of a heat pump. | High upfront cost The initial cost of purchasing and installing a heat pump is usually higher compared to traditional heating systems. |
Heating and cooling Heat pumps work to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer so that you have year round comfort. | Electricity Dependence Heat pumps rely on electricity to operate so if you live in an area with high electricity costs or frequent power outages, this would be something to consider before purchasing. |
Eco-friendly Heat pumps are completely electric systems meaning they don’t directly burn fossil fuels. Therefore they produce lower carbon emissions compared to traditional heating systems. | Aesthetic Impact A heat pump can be bulky and may not blend smoothly with your home’s exterior. |
Space saving With a regular air conditioner and furnace, you have a unit inside and outside of your house. With a heat pump, you only have one unit outside your house, so it gives you more room inside. | Installation complexity It’s crucial that your heat pump is installed properly for optimal performance. This process may require modifications to your home like adding or upgrading ductwork. |
Long lifespan If your heat pump is properly maintained, it can have a longer lifespan than traditional heating and cooling systems. This can result in fewer replacements and repairs overtime, which saves you money. | Maintenance requirements Heat pumps need regular maintenance for smooth operation. Including cleaning filters, inspecting the system for issues, and checking refrigerant levels. |
Quiet Operation Heat pumps are generally quieter than traditional HVAC systems, especially when compared to systems like window air conditioners or ducted air systems. If you want peace and quiet in your home, a heat pump will be able to provide that. | Performance in extreme cold Modern heat pumps are designed to work in colder weather however their efficiency may decrease in very low temperatures. If the temperature is too extreme, you may need supplementary heating. |
A heat pump is an energy-efficient system that can both cool and heat your home. It does this by transferring heat from one location to another rather than generating it. In hot weather, the heat pump moves warm air from your home outside. Then, as the weather cools the reversing valve allows this system to reverse and the heat pump moves heat into your home. A geothermal heat pump, which is another type of heat pump, will use the ground outside of your home to transfer heat to and from. Heat pumps continue to grow in popularity as they reduce your carbon footprint, are much more energy efficient than conventional heating systems which aligns with Canada and Ontario’s goals for greener living. The government offers attractive incentives for you to make the switch.
Boilers - What to Know
Another type of heating system is a boiler which uses a fuel source to heat water inside the boiler chamber. The hot water travels through pipes to your home’s heat distribution system either through a radiator or in floor heating systems. Boilers are usually found in older homes and do not require ductwork.
A boiler works by heating water to produce steam or hot water, which is then distributed throughout a home or building to provide heating.
The process begins when fuel (such as natural gas, oil, or electricity) is used to heat water in the boiler’s tank or heat exchanger.
Once the water reaches the desired temperature, it either circulates as hot water through radiators or underfloor heating, or is converted into steam that travels through pipes to heat different areas.
The system is regulated by a thermostat, ensuring the boiler only operates when needed to maintain the set temperature.
Modern boilers are designed to be energy-efficient and provide consistent warmth, while some systems also provide domestic hot water.
- Benefits
- Ductwork isn’t required for operation
- Boilers usually operate more quietly than forced air systems
- Most flooring will allow you to install underfloor tubing, giving you heated floors
- Disadvantages
- Higher upfront cost
- Cannot cool your home, so you will need another system for air conditioning
- Major repairs or replacements can be costly if something goes wrong
Furnace Filters
A furnace filter protects the blower fan from dust and debris while simultaneously contributing to improving your home’s air quality, as it removes contaminants from being recirculated. If not maintained properly, dust, pollen and other types of particles can clog your system causing higher energy bills, system inefficiency, and possible failure.
There is a wide range of furnace filters that vary in price and quality. Here are the main types of filters you can use for your home:
Fiberglass Filter
Thin, flat surfaces that capture about 20% of pollutants ranging from 3-10 microns. Mostly removes larger particles like small insects, dust, and lint. Less effective for indoor air quality. These filters should be replaced every month and may not provide adequate protection for today’s higher efficiency systems
Electrostatic Filter
These should be replaced every 3 months and acts as an electric charge to attract and trap small particles. This filter would be suitable for a home with pets, smokers or children.
Pleated Filter
These should be replaced every 3 months and acts as an electric charge to attract and trap small particles. This filter would be suitable for a home with pets, smokers or children.
High Efficiency Filter
These filters remove up to 95% of particles including mold, pollen, and tiny dust particles.
Washable Filter
Pleated and flat panelled filters can be bought as a washable/reusable option. These cost more upfront, but are cheaper in the long run as you don’t have to purchase replacement filters. This also makes them more environmentally friendly. They are easily washable with soapy water or a damp cloth and ensure that they are completely dry before reinstalling them.
- How often should I change my furnace filter?
Generally filters should be replaced every 3 months, when you notice they’re dirty, or what’s recommended by the equipment manufacturer. The frequency of filter replacement depends on what type of furnace you have and what kind of filter it uses. If you have increased pollutants due to pets, you may need to check and/or change it more often.
If your furnace is in need of repair, it’s important not to put it off as the equipment can be damaged further and it’s best to have your furnace running smoothly in time for winter weather. For most furnace repair problems, it’s best to call a professional so they can inspect and repair it properly.
MERV Filter Rating: Pros, Cons, & Recommended Locations
If your furnace is in need of repair, it’s important not to put it off as the equipment can be damaged further and it’s best to have your furnace running smoothly in time for winter weather. For most problems, it’s best to call a professional so they can inspect and repair it properly.
MERV Rating
Pros
Cons
Recommended Locations
Merv 1-4
– Least expensive
– Basic filtration
– Ineffective at removing smaller particles
– Low air quality improvement
– Residential areas with minimal air pollution
Merv 5-8
– Affordable
– Removes dust, pollen, mold spores
– Less effective on fine particles like smoke and bacteria
– Homes
– Office buildings
– Light commercial spaces
Merv 9-12
– Great for improving indoor air quality
– Removes pet dander, dust mites, and finer particles
– May cause airflow restrictions in some systems
– Homes with pets
– Hospitals
– Commercial spaces
Merv 13-16
– Great for improving indoor air quality
– Removes pet dander, dust mites, and finer particles
– Expensive
– Can restrict airflow if not compatible with system
– Hospitals
– Smoking areas
– Industrial settings
MERV Filter Rating: What Each Filter Removes
If your furnace is in need of repair, it’s important not to put it off as the equipment can be damaged further and it’s best to have your furnace running smoothly in time for winter weather. For most problems, it’s best to call a professional so they can inspect and repair it properly.
MERV Rating
Removes
MERV 1-4
• Large particles (dust, pollen, carpet fibers)
MERV 5-8
• Dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander
MERV 9-12
• Pet dander, dust mites, auto emissions, fine dust, some bacteria
MERV 13-16
• Smoke, bacteria, sneeze droplets, most allergens, fine particles
MERV 17 -20
• Viruses, carbon dust, combustion smoke, almost all airborne contaminants
Humidifiers
Humidifiers add moisture to the air to prevent dry indoor air that can cause problems like bloody noses, dry sinuses, and cracked lips.
- Do I need a furnace humidifier?
With winter approaching, a lot of Canadians will be spending their time indoors and having a humidifier can improve your comfort level in your home. A humidifier will help add humidity in the air in your home and also add moisture to the air to maintain a comfortable temperature and eliminate any dryness in the air.
- Do I need a furnace humidifier?
Your humidifier pad generally only needs to be changed once a year at the beginning of the heating season, however, it’s best to follow the equipment manufacturer specification. If it has a lot of mineral build up on it, it should be changed as well.
- What is a whole home humidifier?
A whole home humidifier works with your heating and cooling system to increase humidity in your home.
Thermostats
Types of Thermostats
Manual
This is the most basic thermostat and as the name suggests, you must manually change the settings of the thermostat to control the temperature of your home.
- This is a great affordable option, the downside being you must change the temperature manually.
Programmable
This thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature of your home automatically which can help save on heating and cooling costs. These thermostats allow for smooth operation and can be set to your changing needs. Different models allow you to run a certain schedule during the week and a different schedule on the weekends.
- These thermostats are also affordable and most models have different settings, however they’re not suitable for all systems.
Smart Wi-Fi
New smart home technology lets you control your thermostat from your computer or phone.
- These thermostats are more expensive, however it allows you to control the temperature of your home remotely and it’s more convenient and energy-efficient.
Communicating Wi-Fi
This type of thermostat actually communicates with your furnace, meaning your thermostat will receive error codes from your furnace and ensure that everything is running smoothly.
This type of thermostat actually communicates with your furnace, meaning your thermostat will receive error codes from your furnace and ensure that everything is running smoothly.
Where to start when buying a new heating system in Ottawa?
Buying a new heating system for your Ottawa home can feel daunting especially when there are a variety of factors to consider. There are different features available in each heating system that will give you optimal comfort depending on the needs of your home.
To help you better navigate this decision, below is detailed information on each type of heating system so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your home.
Depending on the type of heating system you choose, you’ll want to think about renting versus buying. Both are workable options and it comes down to your time, needs and budget for a heating system.
What to consider before buying or renting:
- Rent
- Buy
Initial Cost
- No upfront cost - fixed monthly payment
- High upfront cost, full payment or financing needed.
Maintenance
- Maintenance and repair costs are often included in rental agreements
- Owner is responsible for all maintenance and repair costs.
Upgrades
- Easy to upgrade to a newer model when the rental agreement ends or is renewed.
- Must purchase a new system when upgrades are desired.
Ownership
- You do not own the system, and it must be returned when the rental contract ends.
- Full ownership, and you can keep the system for its entire lifespan.
Monthly Payments
- Ongoing monthly payments for the duration of the rental agreement.
- No monthly payments once the system is paid off.
Flexibility
- Easy to switch or cancel the agreement if your needs change.
- Limited flexibility once purchased; reselling the system may be difficult.
Tax Benefits
- No tax benefits, as you do not own the system.
- Potential tax benefits through energy-efficiency rebates or deductions.
Long-term Costs
- May cost more over time due to continuous monthly payments.
- More cost-effective long-term, especially if the system is well-maintained.
End of Life
- Rental company handles disposal and replacement at the end of the system's life.
- You are responsible for replacing or disposing of the system.
In our experience we think it makes the most sense to buy a system. A heating system protection plan ensures you’re covered for unexpected costly repairs. Buying is also more cost effective than renting and provides you with overall more long-term value compared to renting. Investing in a reliable and efficient system can provide you with significant financial and practical advantages over time.
Popular furnace brands, Tempstar furnaces and Mitsubishi furnaces, have competitive heating efficiency ratings of up to 96% AFUE.
If you want to go for a more energy efficient option you should consider a heatpump. There are grants available to assist in the transition.
- Money Saving Tip:
Buying your heating system typically saves you more than 40% vs renting over the standard life of the equipment
Canada Greener Homes Grant
The Canada Greener Homes Grant is no longer accepting applications. However, the Canada Greener Homes Loan and the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program remain open.
Canadian Greener Homes Loan
The Canada Greener Homes Loan offers up to $40,000 in interest free financing to homeowners at the pre-retrofit stage. There is loan eligibility that has already been established which can be read here.
Oil to Heat Pump Afforability
The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program is perfect for you if you are currently heating your home with oil and would like to transition to eligible heat pump systems. Making the switch will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and also save you thousands of dollars on your utility bills. You may be able to receive an upfront payment of up to $10,000 to switch.
What to Look for in a Heating Installation Company in Ottawa
- Reputation and Reviews
Online reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into a company’s quality. You can find reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp. At Francis Plumbing Heating and Cooling, we’re proud to have a 4.9/5 rating from over 1,000 Google reviews, showcasing our dedication to exceptional service and customer satisfaction.
- Licensing and Certification
Verify that the company is properly licensed to perform heating installations and look for certifications from recognized industry organizations. Certifications indicate a commitment to high standards.
- Insurance and Warranties
Ensure that the company has proper insurance coverage that will protect you in case of accidents or damage during the installation process. A good warranty will provide you with peace of mind and protect against potential issues in the future.
- Experience and Expertise
Look for a company with a proven track record in heating system installations. Experience in the industry correlates with a higher level of expertise. Make sure that the company specializes in installing the type of heating system you’re interested in.
Maintaining Your Heating System
A well-maintained heating system is essential to ensure your Ottawa home remains comfortable, energy-efficient, and safe throughout the colder months. Annual maintenance of your furnace, heat pumps or boiler not only prolongs the lifespan of the system but also helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. In this section, we’ll cover essential maintenance tasks to ensure your heating system runs smoothly all winter long.
- Why is it important to maintain your system?
- Your furnace might be working poorly which strains the equipment and increases the chances of system failure earlier than expected
- The quality of the air in your home will decrease if your furnace filter has not been changed in a long time
- A furnace that is performing poorly could cost more to operate
Make sure your furnace is regularly maintained so you don’t have to pay for a potential costly breakdown in the middle of winter.
Preparing your Heating System for Winter
It’s best to ensure your furnace is running smoothly for the cold before the cold comes as you don’t want to face any issues with your furnace when you actually need it. Try to book furnace maintenance in September or October to beat the rush.
Here are some steps to take to ensure your home is prepared for winter:
- Schedule a professional inspection
- Check for safety issues
- No gas leaks and that all safety features are working properly.
- Change air filters
- Check your furnace filter, humidifier pads, and ventilator filters and change/replace them
- Check the thermostat
- If your thermostat has batteries, be sure to check them. Check your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide batteries at the same time. Set your thermostat to different temperatures and ensure that the system responds accordingly.
- Declutter the area around your furnace
-
Tip:
Consider a protection plan
Put your furnace inspections and regular service on autopilot, by signing up for a compressive protection plan to make sure you are always covered. Learn More Here.
Symptom
Possible Cause
Repair
No Heat at All
Thermostat not set properly
Power issue (blown fuse, tripped breaker)
Malfunctioning furnace/blower motor
Check thermostat settings, ensure it’s on “heat” mode.
Reset breaker or replace fuse.
Contact a professional like Francis Plumbing.
Uneven heating in
rooms
Blocked or closed vents
Dirty air filters
Ductwork issues
Ensure all vents are open and unblocked.
Replace or clean air filters.
Contact Francis Plumbing for ductwork inspection.
Unusual noises
(banging, rattling,
whistling)
Loose parts or debris in system
Air in radiators or pipes
Serious mechanical issue
Tighten any loose parts or clear debris
Bleed radiators if applicable
Contact Francis Plumbing for ductwork inspection.
System is constantly
running
Thermostat set too high
Dirty air filters
Faulty thermostat or control issues
Lower thermostat settings.
Replace or clean air filters.
Contact Francis Plumbing for ductwork inspection.
Cool air blowing from
vents
Furnace pilot light out or ignition issues
Clogged or dirty burners
Relight pilot or check ignition system.
Contact Francis Plumbing for ductwork inspection.
Short cycling (turning
on and off frequently)
Overheating due to clogged air filters
Thermostat issues
Replace or clean air filters.
Contact Francis Plumbing for ductwork inspection.
Strange smell from
furnace
Dust burning off after inactivity
Gas leak
Normal during first use of the season, but monitor for continued odours.
Shut off gas supply and contact emergency services and Francis Plumbing.
Noisy radiators
Air trapped in system
Failing boiler or circulation pump
Bleed radiators to release trapped air.
Call Francis Plumbing for boiler inspection and repair.
Furnace FAQ's
If your furnace isn’t working, check your thermostat, ensure the furnace power switch is turned on, examine the air filter, air ducts may be blocked. Consult a professional and have it inspected if you checked the above and it still isn’t working.
If you maintain your furnace regularly, it should generally last 10-15 years. If your furnace is making noises, has rust or is needing repairs more frequently, it may be time to look for a new furnace.
If you maintain your furnace regularly, it should generally last 10-15 years. If your furnace is making noises, has rust or is needing repairs more frequently, it may be time to look for a new furnace.
If your furnace is beeping this means something is wrong and you should have it checked by a qualified technician.
If your furnace is beeping this means something is wrong and you should have it checked by a qualified technician.
If you have an older HVAC system, a newer smart thermostat may not be compatible with it. You may need an adapter or professional installation. Consult a professional to explore your options.
The most common reasons for your furnace having an odour is your air filter is clogged, furnace parts are overheating or there’s a natural gas leak. The most serious reason would be the gas leak, so if you smell rotten eggs near your furnace, open all the windows and leave your house immediately. Call a professional right away. ur adipisicing elit. Optio, neque qui velit. Magni dolorum quidem ipsam eligendi, totam, facilis laudantium cum accusamus ullam voluptatibus commodi numquam, error, est. Ea, consequatur.
Heat Pump FAQ's
The average life expectancy of a heat pump is 15 years. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t run longer.
Consider the following factors when choosing a heat pump:
- The size of your home
- Local climate
- Layout of your home
- Electricity rates
- Ductwork
Yes, you can rely on a ductless heat pump to effectively heat and cool your home.
Air Source Heat Pump: $6,700 – $12,000
Geothermal Heat Pump: $15,000 – $45,000+
Buying is recommended since it offers the clearest and lowest costs to homeowners, as well as, offers the maximum flexibility for choice of service providers and maintenance and protection plans.
While renting has lower upfront costs, the smaller monthly fee adds up considering you will be paying it for at least 12 years. Rental agreements also include a buyout fee if you choose to opt out of your rental contract.
Boiler FAQ's
It’s recommended to have your boiler serviced annually to ensure it runs efficiently and safely.
Boilers typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance, but this can vary depending on the model and usage.
Banging, whistling, or gurgling noises could indicate air in the system, low pressure, or a mechanical issue that needs professional attention.
A combi boiler provides hot water on demand without a tank, while a conventional boiler uses a separate water tank for storage.
Regular maintenance, bleeding radiators, and upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient boiler can improve performance and reduce energy costs.
Low pressure may indicate a leak or need for a system top-up. Check the pressure gauge and consult a professional if unsure.
Yes, many homeowners switch to gas boilers for greater efficiency and lower fuel costs, but it requires professional installation and may involve additional costs.
This could be due to a faulty thermostat, pressure issues, or a broken component. It’s best to have it inspected by a certified technician.
Choosing and maintaining an effective home heating system is crucial for comfort and efficiency. By understanding the types of furnaces available, their respective benefits, and the importance of regular maintenance you can make informed decisions that ensure warmth and energy savings for years to come.
Whether you opt for a traditional forced-air furnace, a modern heat pump, or an innovative radiant heating system, each choice comes with its own set of advantages tailored to different needs and preferences. Regular maintenance, including timely inspections and tune-ups, not only prolongs the life of your furnace but also enhances its performance, preventing costly repairs and ensuring consistent, reliable heating.
In addition to selecting the right system, considering energy efficiency and taking steps to improve your home’s insulation and overall energy use can further reduce heating costs and environmental impact. By staying informed and proactive, you can enjoy a cozy, efficient, and cost-effective home environment throughout the heating season.
Thank you for exploring this guide. We hope it serves as a valuable resource in making well-informed decisions for your home heating needs, ensuring comfort and efficiency for you and your family.
If you have any questions, call Francis Plumbing as we’ve been serving the Ottawa community for over 90 years. Our HVAC specialists can help you get the answers you’re looking for. Book a free consultation or get advice here!
- Need advice on your heating system?
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