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Which Furnaces Last The Longest?

Are you searching for a reliable and efficient furnace that will last you through the coming cold season and beyond? You've come to the right place! Navigating choices in furnaces can be tricky, but with a little research, it's possible to find the one that best meets your comfort needs and budget.

In this blog post, we'll look at which furnaces last the longest so you can make an informed decision when purchasing your new heating system.

Factors Affecting Furnace Longevity

One of the essential things to consider when purchasing a furnace is how long it will last. To determine the longevity of a furnace, you have to consider several factors, such as brand reputation, maintenance, installation, and usage.

Brand

Brand reputation is a significant factor that affects the lifespan of a furnace. Brands that have established themselves as reputable and have been in the industry for a long time will likely produce top-quality furnaces that last long. Brands that cut corners and produce low-quality products often have furnaces that break down and require expensive repairs or replacement shortly after installation.

A furnace built well doesn't need much maintenance and can last for decades. When shopping for a furnace, it's important to research and check out different brands' reputations. You can read reviews, ask for recommendations from people who have purchased certain brands, and check the warranties offered by the manufacturer. Buying from a reputable brand may mean spending more initially, but the long-term savings are worth it.

Maintenance

Maintenance is another crucial factor that determines how long your furnace lasts. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning can significantly elongate a furnace's lifespan. Failing to maintain your furnace leads to wear and tear that can result in expensive repairs or premature replacement. Some essential areas that require regular maintenance include the filter, blower motor, and heat exchanger.

Cleaning or replacing the filter every 1-3 months is necessary to keep your furnace running efficiently. The blower motor should be lubricated annually, and the heat exchanger should be cleaned annually. Scheduling yearly inspections and maintenance services from a reputable HVAC contractor can keep your furnace running for years and identify minor issues before they become major problems.

Installation

The installation of a furnace also plays a vital role in its lifespan. If a furnace is not installed correctly, it can cause many problems that shorten its lifespan. For example, if the furnace is not installed on a level surface, the unit may vibrate excessively, leading to wear and tear that causes damage to the furnace's components.

Thus, it's essential to have the furnace installed by a licensed and experienced HVAC contractor. They will ensure the furnace is installed correctly and all components are aligned and connected. A professional installer can also ensure the ductwork is correctly installed and configured to maximize the furnace's performance and longevity.

Usage

Usage is another factor that determines the lifespan of a furnace. Overuse or misuse of a furnace is likely to shorten its lifespan significantly. A furnace used frequently to heat a large space or household is more susceptible to wear and tear than one used less frequently.

One way to extend the lifespan of your furnace is to use it optimally. For example, if you're frequently away from home, consider setting back the thermostat to reduce the workload on the furnace. This strategy can also help to save energy and lower your utility bills.

Lifespans of Different Furnaces

Different types of furnaces have varying lifespans, and it's essential to know the average lifespan of the different systems to make an informed decision about which furnace to purchase.

Gas Furnaces

Gas furnaces are the most common type of furnace used in Canada. On average, the lifespan of a gas furnace ranges from 15 to 20 years. However, this lifespan depends on several factors, including the brand, usage, maintenance, and installation.

High-quality gas furnaces from reputable brands can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. Regular maintenance activities such as filter cleaning and lubrication of moving parts can also help extend the lifespan of a gas furnace. Problems such as clogged filters can cause the furnace to overwork and wear out, leading to premature replacement.

Oil Furnaces

Oil furnaces have an average lifespan of 15 to 25 years. Like gas furnaces, a furnace's lifespan depends on different factors, such as the quality of the furnace, maintenance, usage, and proper installation. Regular maintenance activities such as filter cleaning, inspection, and heat exchanger cleaning can significantly improve an oil furnace's longevity.

One significant factor affecting an oil furnace's lifespan is the availability of oil in the region. If oil is scarce in a particular region, running an oil furnace can be prohibitive, leading to neglect of essential maintenance activities and premature replacement.

Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces are relatively less popular when compared with gas and oil furnaces, yet they offer many benefits. For instance, electric furnaces are environmentally friendly, have zero carbon emissions, and operate quietly. The average lifespan of an electric furnace ranges from 15 to 20 years or more, depending on the quality of the furnace, usage, and maintenance.

Electric furnaces require much less maintenance than gas and oil and are not susceptible to the same issues with internal parts. However, homeowners who use electric furnaces usually report higher energy bills than homeowners who use gas furnaces. Electric furnaces remain an excellent option for homeowners who prefer a cost-effective, low-maintenance heating solution.

Propane Furnaces

Propane furnaces are a type of gas furnace that burns propane gas. Propane furnaces are relatively more expensive than natural gas and electric furnaces, but they offer excellent heating benefits. Propane furnaces generally have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

One benefit of propane furnaces is that they provide more heat output than natural gas furnaces. Additionally, propane furnaces do not require electricity to operate, making them an excellent option for those who live in areas with frequent power outages. Regular maintenance is crucial in prolonging a propane furnace's lifespan, and homeowners must have the furnace inspected and serviced every year before the heating season.

Conclusion

In summary, the lifespans of different furnace types vary, with gas furnaces having a lifespan of 15-20 years, oil furnaces lasting 15-25 years, electric furnaces lasting 15-20 years or more, and propane furnaces lasting up to 30 years. Each type of furnace offers unique benefits and drawbacks, so homeowners should choose a system that fits their needs and fulfills their heating requirements.

Ultimately, understanding the significance of proper maintenance, choosing a reputable brand, considering fuel source and usage, and proper installation are essential when purchasing and maintaining a furnace to ensure it provides the most efficient, long-lasting, cost-effective performance. Following these guidelines, homeowners can avoid costly mistakes, prolong their furnace's lifespan, and stay warm and comfortable during colder months.

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Where are Furnaces Located in a House?

As temperatures drop during winter, most homes rely on furnaces to stay warm and comfortable. However, many homeowners may not know the location of their furnace and why it is crucial to know it. Knowing where are furnaces located in a house can make a big difference in the maintenance and safety of your home.

For one, knowing the location of your furnace can help you quickly access it when you need to change air filters or make repairs. In case of a malfunction, it helps to know where to find it so that you can shut it off or inspect it for safety reasons. In addition, understanding where your furnace is located allows you to monitor it for signs of wear and breakdowns. This awareness can save you time and money on new replacements or costly repairs.

Here are the most common places where furnaces are usually installed:

Why Basements are Ideal Locations for Furnaces

Basements are commonly the central point for most homes' heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Basements are ideal locations because they provide a safe and convenient place for installing the furnace unit. It also allows for proper ventilation and heating of the unit since it has adequate space to operate. While the basement may not be a living area, it is an ideal place to house the furnace to maintain the comfort of the entire house.

Moreover, the basement can offer other benefits for the furnace unit. For example, it can provide an area for storing tools and spare parts, allowing for a convenient and centralized location for all the HVAC system components. Finally, the basement offers natural insulation to the furnace, keeping it from working overtime and saving energy costs.

Distribution of Heat in the House

The reason why the basement is an ideal location for a furnace is that heat rises. Therefore, the furnace in the basement ensures that the heat can conveniently distribute throughout the house. A basement furnace typically provides an energy-efficient solution for heating your home, making it easier for the warm air to flow through ducts and reach all house parts.

Furthermore, the furnace in the basement can be placed centrally in the home, close to where the ductwork begins. This setup enables the furnace to force air through the ducts easily, providing even heating throughout the house.

Why Some Homes Use Attics to House Furnaces

While the basement is the most common location for a furnace, some older homes, particularly those in milder climates, may have their furnace installed in the attic.

Attics were commonly used to house furnace units in older homes, particularly those without basements. The furnace is installed in the attic and connected to the ductwork that delivers warm air to the rooms below.

Attics free up living space, particularly where the housing density is high and for aesthetic reasons. The furnace is located in the attic to create more space for living areas. For example, attics are convenient places for townhomes, apartments, and other smaller units, with limited space for the heating unit.

Reasons Why Attic Location is Less Common

While the attic may be a convenient location for the furnace in some homes, it has some challenges that make it less desirable than the basement. One significant challenge is the attic's insulation, which can make it difficult to maintain uniform temperatures. Heat in the attic creates hot spots, which makes it hard to spread heat evenly throughout the house. It can cause a waste of energy, resulting in high energy bills.

Another challenge is the location of the furnace in the attic; it makes it less accessible for repairs and maintenance. Attics are usually challenging to reach, and homeowners have to use ladders or crawl spaces to get to the furnace to perform maintenance services.

Other Locations for Furnaces in Homes

Apart from the attic and basement, some homes have their furnace installed in other locations, such as closets and utility rooms. While these locations may provide additional functional or space-saving benefits, they come with specific challenges that can cause significant headaches during repairs.

Sometimes, households use closets for housing furnaces, but they have limited space and pose difficulties whenever maintenance is needed. Classically, a closet will have limited ventilation and circulation, which can cause overheating, damaging the furnace, the closet, and even the clothes kept inside the cabinet.

Utility rooms are in many homes to hold washing machines, dryers, and other utility equipment alongside the furnace. Utility rooms are slightly larger than closets, allowing for more room for the furnace. However, unlike basements and attics, utility rooms do not typically offer proper ventilation or insulation, resulting in potential fire risks or damage to the utility equipment.

Challenges Associated with These Locations

Locating a furnace in a closet or utility room poses several difficulties and challenges, which can make it less common. One significant challenge is limited accessibility. These small spaces are challenging to access and, in some cases, may require the removal of shelving, wires, or even HVAC ducts, making it harder to fix issues with the furnace.

Closets and utility rooms also offer limited ventilation, which can cause the furnace to overheat, leading to major wear issues, damages, or posing a fire hazard. Additionally, if the furnace is not functioning well, it can compromise the safety and well-being of the household, and there are potential health risks involved.

Conclusion

Knowing your furnace's location is crucial to ensure a safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient home. The location of your furnace can significantly impact its functionality, efficiency, and lifespan. A furnace is a critical element of your home's HVAC system. Ignoring it or failing to maintain it can lead to devastating results.

Although attics are often used as furnace locations, they come with unique challenges that make them less common than the basement or other room options. Whichever location you choose, keep your furnace in good condition and have it regularly serviced for optimum performance.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/where-are-furnaces-located-in-a-house/

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Oil Furnace vs. Electric Furnace: Advantages & Disadvantages

The allure of an oil furnace is that it costs less to operate on a monthly basis, especially when purchasing the fuel on a contract. All things being said, the type of furnace isn't a deal breaker for a prospective home buyer. Granted it is a nice selling point if a house uses an energy efficient HVAC system but curb appeal and floor plan eventually trump all. There are times though when Edmonton homeowners wonder if an oil furnace is better than an electric furnace, usually when a furnace upgrade is up for debate. For help deciding, check out the tale of the tape of each system. Related: How to choose a garage heater?

Electric More Convenient?

Depending on the current furnace situation in your home, upgrading or installing a new system could be a pipe dream, literally. An oil furnace mechanic (OBM) must modify your home to implement the oil system. First off, the OBM must bury or install above ground a 275 gallon oil tank. Then he must bury the lines to the home. None of this includes running the duct work and rigging up the actual furnace unit.

An electric furnace, on the other hand, can be installed by tapping into your existing circuitry and many people simply decide to stick with the setup that is already on hand. Of course, in a new home build, to decide which furnace is the best fit, you must consider a number of other factors, e.g., furnace lifespan, operating costs, environmentally friendly, etc.

Oil More Consistent Month to Month

One nice thing about oil furnace service is the ability to purchase the fuel on a one-time fee contract. Homeowners tend to preserve their oil fuel more than they would with an electric furnace because they know the quicker they plow through it, the sooner they'll have to cut another huge check. While buying the oil upfront does represent a huge investment, some people like having one less bill over the holiday months. Although an electric heating system is less expensive to install, its operating costs generally makes it less popular than the oil furnace and other furnace systems.

Electric More Options?

With an electric furnace, a consumer does have more options for heating on a room to room basis. While oil furnace services are starting to implement more programmable thermostat options, electric furnaces services have fine-tuned them to get the most energy efficiency. A nice option with the oil furnace is that it can operate even while the power is out whereas an electric furnace shuts down, which could be damning over a long period.

Oil Lasts Longer

While each situation varies and a lot depends on if you follow proper maintenance procedures, the lifespan of an oil furnace is supposedly 20-30 years compared to 12-15 for an electric unit.

Pricing

The allure of an oil furnace service is that it costs less to operate on a monthly basis, especially when purchasing the fuel on a contract. That being said, the initial installation cost is much lower for an electric unit. There's no real answer to whether an electric or oil furnace service is the wiser choice, but it's nice to have a choice.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/oil-furnace/

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When to Call an Emergency Residential Plumbing Service?

There are some pretty obvious circumstances when a plumber should be called, mainly when your toilet has suddenly transformed into a geyser, or your kitchen floor is doubling as a wading pool. These residential plumbing situations require quick access to the water shutoff and a lot of towels in addition to calling a plumbing service. There are some plumbing situations however that you can do-it-yourself – but when do you know? Related: Hot water tank repair

Does the Water Shutoff Work?

The main thing, to familiarize yourself with in your home, is the water shutoff valve. Knowing exactly where this valve is and getting to it too quickly cut off the access could be the difference in the hundreds of dollars of damage. In modern residential plumbing, there is not only a main water shutoff valve, but also ones for individual fixtures. These shutoff valves are handy when one fixture might be malfunctioning, but you still need to use appliances like a washing machine or a refrigerator ice maker.

Is There Immediate Danger?

By all means, if you cannot shut off the valve and the plumbing increasingly backs up, call a residential plumbing professional immediately. The old saying of 'better safe than sorry' rings true when it comes to having plumbing issues fixed in a hurry.

Are There Alternatives?

A non-flushing toilet is grounds for a plumbing call but if you have a second bathroom that can be used it's more of a service visit than an emergency situation. If you are experiencing issues with the pipes in the home, identify if there are alternatives you can use until you make that a service call.

Assess The Situation Thoroughly

There are other variables to inspect before calling in residential plumbing service. For instance, your home might be without water but it could be that the whole block is out. Another example is a valve could have accidentally gotten turned off which results in the lack of water – an easily fixable solution and a waste of time and money to call in a plumber. In essence, make sure everything is secure on your end before calling for a visit by a plumber. There are some things to remember about having a residential plumbing service call compared to an emergency. An after-hours call may cost more, and it will be a definite nuisance to the service person. That being said, if you've got Old Faithful spewing out of your kitchen drain and the water shutoff does nothing, time is of the essence.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/residential-plumbing/

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Calling For Hot Water Tank Repair? Read this first…

Master Plumber Repairing Hot Water Tank There are a number of situations in which home emergencies must be tended to immediately.  A furnace that goes out or pipes that burst present real threats to the house and furnishings inside. There are other minor issues however such as hot water tank repair that fall into a gray area – they aren't necessarily an emergency, it is a nuisance, and it is a sign of a potentially larger problem. Besides screaming at the kids to turn off the sink or not flush the toilet when you're in the shower trying to take a warm breather, there are a few methods to seek out for hot water tank repair when the water goes ice on you. Take these steps to get your tank back functioning or to determine if a replacement unit is needed.

Be Patient

Before calling in for hot water tank repair as soon as your shower starts losing some heat, first try and wait it out. A water heater tank holds a certain amount of water whether it is 30 gallons, 40 gallons, 50 or more. It takes a little bit of time to heat up this water and the supply is kept in a reserve. Thus when two or three members of the household take showers simultaneously it may drain the reserves rather quickly, especially if a dishwasher or kitchen sink is being used at the same time. While these times of frequent use are pretty rare, if they are a regular deal in your home you may want to think of upgrading your water tank size.

Check the Pilot Light

A hot water heater may not go down at all, instead it may have simply had the pilot light go out. A pilot light ignites the gas that heats the water in your home. This mechanism can go out for a number of reasons either because the power went out or an outside force pushed it off. Modern water tanks feature an easy ignition switch in which a valve is turned from 'gas' to 'pilot' and the light is restarted by holding down a button for a couple minutes. Older model water heaters require actually crawling down and locating the light and igniting it with a match or a barbecue lighter.

Flush the Water Heater of Sediments

Water and metal don't always mix, especially in cool conditions like a utility room where a water heater would be located. The water coming into the system itself carries small bits of debris and combined with the flaking of the metal can plug the access holes of the tank. If there is a noticeable lack of pressure through your plumbing system, the only form of hot water tank repair you might need is just a good flushing of the system. By turning off the cold water and hooking up a garden hose to the water tank you can effectively flush a majority of the sediment that has been causing either low pressure or lack of hot water. This should be done between every 1 and 3 years.

Check Thermostat Settings / Electrical Issues

One of the main causes of a tank losing hot water either subtlety or altogether is bad thermostat or electrical elements. Perhaps the easiest solution to fix a lack of hot water coming through the system is to check for a flipped breaker. If a water heater is hooked up to its own power box it's possible to lose electricity in the basement but still have lights in the bathroom. Flipping the breaker back on in the utility room should solve the problem. If the breaker continually trips you're likely dealing with a fried element or two in the water heater itself. This is actually a very common occurrence as a lower element that is out you have a minimal supply of hot water but if the top element is out you'll have none. Another issue that might lead you to believe hot water tank repair is needed is thermostat issues. There could be faulty wiring with the thermostat or the temperature could just be turned down. Either way it's probably best to have a professional look at the tank to make sure the problems aren't caused by something more severe.

Repair Corrosion, Leaks, Etc.

Corrosion on the heads of the fittings and leaks in the tank will have negative effect on the performance of the plumbing. Leaks will result in low water pressure and corrosion will start to flake off and plug the tank. Most leaks can be replaced by either cleaning off the heads of the fittings or replacing them but advanced corrosion is cause for a tank replacement. Once again it's best to get hot water tank repair on site to examine the situation and give the best plan for recourse.

Upgrade Tank Size

One thing that could cause a person to believe their water tank has gone bad is an increase in water consumption. Additional people living in the house, the inclusion of new appliances such as a dishwasher or hot tub, or the remodeling to add a bathroom could all increase the workload of the water heater. A 30 gallon tank may have been fine for one or two people just taking showers and doing the wash but it may time to upgrade as your household grows.

Get an Inspection

If you think your in need of hot water tank repair, the best plan of attack is to simply get an inspection. It's much better to know what isn't wrong than wonder what is.

Related Posts...

Tankless Water Heater | Edmonton Buying Guide

How to maintain a kitchen drain

Drain Cleaning Services

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Tankless Water Heater | Edmonton Buying Guide

An image of a worn-out hot water tank and a new tankless water heater If you're like most Edmonton homeowners, you don't pay much attention or really appreciate your water heater until a problem arises. Not saying you have to keep a picture of your water heater in your wallet to show off to family and friends but the unit is something that a professional plumber should properly inspect on a regular basis. Gas leaks and bad wiring could have catastrophic implications but the more common problem that people face is simply insane utility bills. If you find that your current model is a cash drain perhaps it might be time to look into a tankless water heater but what really is the difference? Well, we're glad you asked. Related: Find a 24-hour plumber

How Storage Water Heaters Work

Most of the common water heaters in homes today are of the storage type, or 'regular' heaters. These units feature the large tanks that you often find in the utility room or basement of a house. The tanks hold anywhere between 20 and 120 gallons of water constantly. Cold water comes in from the bottom of the tank and heats as it nears the top of the tank. The water is heated either by gas or electric means and the water at the top of the tank is constantly being warmed. When you turn on a warm shower or do the dishes with hot water you're drawing the water from the top of the tank for instant heat.

Some Problems With Storage Water Heaters

The main problem with storage water heaters is a loss of efficiency as the heat escapes through the tank's walls. Granted the units are insulated but with the tanks being stored often in cool, wet places the warmth is just sucked out of them. What this basically means is that your water heater is constantly working to supply warm H20 on demand which is a waste when you're gone to work for the day and the house is empty. Another plumbing problem is that since only the water near the top of the tank is being warmed, a large family who takes multiple warm showers in the morning could deplete their warm water reserve, leaving the last person in with about 4 seconds of warm water.

The Tankless Water Heater Alternative

Tankless water heaters have been around for decades but have surged in popularity in recent years thanks to a push for a 'greener' and more sustainable home. The tankless water heater in Edmonton aims to alleviate the problem of standby heat loss and running out of warm water by displacing the tank altogether. Tankless heaters work by running water through a burner so that it's warmed almost as soon as it cycles meaning a person can always have hot water in an instant. Since there is not tank people aren't losing the energy efficiency of heat constantly escaping and don't have the problem of running out of hot water. The units are typically run by gas and are also smaller, hung on the wall, and space saving in tiny utility rooms. The tankless water heater dubs itself as having an endless supply of hot water and lower costs of operation over the life of a unit compared to storage heaters. Tankless Water Heater

Some Downfalls of the Tankless Models

It seems that a tankless water heater that delivers unlimited hot water any time you want while saving utility bills in the process seems like a slam dunk installation but that's not necessarily always the case. There are a few setbacks that have held the tankless units from being the norm for every house in Canada.

Higher Initial Costs – Having to replace a storage water heater is one of the most unexpected costs a homeowner can face and can be strapping in tough financial times. Multiply that cost by 3 or 4 times or more for a tankless water heater and people might be really scared off. It doesn't matter that the energy savings will pay themselves off plus some over the life of the tankless model, some consumers just don't put much value into that when comparing up front costs.

Flow Requirements – For the most part modern tankless water heaters require a minimum amount of water flow up to ½ a gallon per minute before they 'kick-in'. This means if you wanted to draw just a little stream of hot water say for a cup of tea or to brush your teeth you'd have to still turn the faucet on max flow.

Endless Hot Water Not Always Good – One thing about storage water heaters is that they'll typically supply enough warm water for multiple showers in succession...unless you have teenage girls or a passed out dad in your family. When a shower starts to run out of hot water in 20-25 minutes it serves as a warning sign for the 'long showerer' to wrap things up. Unfortunately since a tankless water heater supplies an endless amount of warmth you could have household members taking 45 minute to an hour long showers, which wastes water and basically negates all the energy savings for while the unit was installed in the first place. In an irresponsible household timers need to be installed which is yet another expense.

Not Always Easy to Integrate – Since tankless water heaters need to heat water in an instant, they typically have larger burners, which usually require a bigger gas line than is currently installed in the home. Also most of the units are gas but electric ones do exist. Therein lies another problem where the current draw needed to supply warm water to the whole house is a larger amperage than most homes supply. Plus even though the tankless water heater itself is smaller, it still requires a large air flow to operate which means you still need to install it in a decent sized space.

There are definitely some pros and cons to the installation of a tankless water heater. For a new house going full 'green' they are probably a necessity but to retrofit them in your house will take a one on one evaluation.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/tankless-water-heater-edmonton/

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How to Find Rebates for a High Efficiency Furnace

High efficiency furnace with an AFUE of 98% One of the many gripes that people give for putting off installing a new high efficiency furnace is that 'we just can't afford it right now'. While it's true that money can be tight, paying 150% for utility bills due to an old furnace or poor insulation around the house is financially irresponsible just the same. What many people have found out is that replacing an old dilapidated heater with a new high-efficiency furnace doesn't have to be an all or nothing equation. In fact, government kickbacks are available even if you build your 'green' household piece by piece. Here is an example of some of the rebates that are available and the average prices:

Programmable Thermostats $20

Replacing an old thermostat with a programmable thermostat provides an instant rebate but also starts the steps for a high-efficiency furnace system. The programmable thermostat will save on utility bills by only heating the area before people arrive and to be more efficient while individuals are sleeping. The thermostat must have programs for weekends and weekdays with two settings for each to qualify for the stipend.

High Efficiency Furnace $200-$300

The factor on how Governments decide on furnace efficiency is called the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). A furnace with a high AFUE burns less gas to produce the same amount of heat. A stipulation for the rebate is that a professional contractor must install the high-efficiency furnace, but that's good advice with any furnace. Plus the higher AFUE rating a unit has, the bigger the furnace price tag, but also the bigger the rebate:

92% AFUE = $200 rebate

95% AFUE = $250 rebate

97% AFUE = $300 rebate

In addition to the incentive of money for purchasing a more fuel efficient furnace, the lower heating bills have reduced costs from 40-50% for some consumers.

High Efficiency Boilers $425

High-efficiency boilers have an 85% AFUE or above. Most utility companies will require that a consumer purchases a 95% AFUE or above-rated boiler to accurately round out their high-efficiency furnace and to get the maximum amount of rebate available. High-efficiency boilers also include features that use less energy overall such as a variable speed motor, which allows for fewer stops and starts and less temperature variation.

Air Sealing and Insulation Work

Saving energy does not only involve purchasing high-efficiency appliances. In fact, simply sealing up gaps in the home and placing new insulation in rooms could save a homeowner upwards of $1000. The air sealing must be performed by a professional but is eligible for up to $0.40 per CFM50 reduction in airflow up to $400. A duct sealing contractor could earn another $350 rebate whereas upgrading insulation in the walls and attic of a home is worth $900. The best thing about sealing up the home and better insulation, besides the rebates, are lower heating bills, and a longer lasting furnace since it will not have to work as hard. I hope you enjoyed this article re: high efficiency furnace.  Here are some related posts...

Residential Furnaces | 5 Key Factors to Consider

Replacing Furnace? 6 Signs It’s Time!

Where to Buy a Furnace | Furnace Shopping 101

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/high-efficiency-furnace/

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The Many Benefits of Central Air Systems

It is no fun being in your home in the dog days of summer if your home does not have air conditioning. You will get irritable, be a sweaty mess and may even have trouble sleeping. All that can be avoided with the simple addition of air conditioning to your home. If you are considering adding air conditioning to your home then you might want to take a look at central air condition in particular. Here are some of the benefits of using central air conditioning as opposed to other types of air conditioning systems.

Related: The history of air conditioning.

Space Considerations

The small amount of room that a central air system takes up is one of the biggest advantages of them. Similar to ductless AC, a large part of the workings of the system are either hidden in floors and walls or based outside the home. They do not take up any precious window space or take up space on the floors of your home.

Home Air Quality

Central air systems will actually improve the quality of the air you breather in your home. They do this by placing an air filter somewhere in the air circulation path. The filters come with various qualities that enable them to filter out dust, pet dander, pollen and other irritants so you can breather better as you go about doing things in your home.

Efficiency

It is also a well-known fact that central air systems are very efficient when it comes to making the air cooler for the amount of energy that they use. This was not the case years ago but technology has come a long way in this area over the last 10 – 15 years. The efficiency of modern day central air systems can be as high as 95%.

Convenience

There is no repeated turning on and off the system with a central air system so that makes them extremely convenient too. All you have to do to determine how often they run is to simply set the thermostat control on the wall and the system itself will do the rest. They will maintain the house temperature at the cooling level that is set and the system is automatically turned on and off to accomplish this.

Energy Conservation

We mentioned that a central air system can be very efficient these days, which is one of the ways that they tend to be energy efficient devices. They also save you money because they do not have to constantly run to cool your house, so no energy is not being used during those down periods.

Cooling Volume

Since the cool air is moved with force it produces a large air volume when doing it. This is great because the central air unit will fill the rooms with cool air over the entirety of it and it won’t leave certain rooms cooler than others.

With all these advantages anyone would do well to at least look into the possibility of having a central air conditioning system in their home.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/central-air/

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How to Select the Right 24 Hour Plumber in Edmonton

We've all been burned by poor service before whether it be through a hair stylist, a lawn service, a restaurant, etc. For the most part we cut our losses and chalk it up to a learning experience and look for a replacement service. With larger investments or repairs like those to a home or automobile it's not always feasible to sport a learning curve. In the case of a 24 hour plumber for instance a bad experience could cost thousands of extra dollars and make your home unlivable. To help avoid this, it's a wise idea to go out searching for a trusted plumber even before you need their service – and here's how to do it.

Does Customer Service Matter?

Personal assessments need to be made before you prequalify a plumber. For instance, what are your top priorities which could include any of the following:

Customer service – is it important to you if your 24 hour plumber is friendly, prompt, and explains the details of their visit or could you care less and just want the fixes made?

Price – is the lowest price your ultimate deciding point regardless of quality, customer service, etc.?

Quality of work – It's important to have workmanship you can trust but often that comes with a higher price.

There are a number of 24-hour plumbing services out there from the friendly guys who are priced low but do shoddy work to the pipe experts who don't always show up to the job site promptly but always make great repairs. Make a list and decide which is important to you.

What Is Their Service Scope and What Extras Do they Offer?

Another area to pre-qualify about is what type of services they offer. Some companies specialize in installation while others are repairs. Some companies are strictly toilets and sinks while others service washing machines and everything else. Make sure your 24 hour plumber is adept to handle your issues.

Research the Business Online Before Making a Contact List

When pre-qualifying any service in current times it's crucial to use your online resources to see what others are saying about the business. From online reviews to other customer testimonial sites you can get a pretty good example of how a company operates.

Always Contact Multiple Companies

Another thing that's important in the early search for a quality 24-hour plumber is to never be satisfied with your first contact. For one, you'll have nothing to compare to in regards to price, services offered, etc. Another reason to investigate multiple companies is so that you can rank them – in case the top choice is busy you'll know the chronological order in which to call a backup, third choice, etc. Pre-qualifying a 24 hour plumber before you actually need one might seem extraneous but doing some early legwork could save you grief down the road.

Related Articles...

How to Replace a Toilet Read this before repairing your water tank How to Plan for a Tankless Water Heater

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Common Air Conditioner Problems and Troubleshooting

If you are like most people you love coming home to your nice cool house after being out and about on a hot summer day. There is something magical about that nice cool air hitting you in the face as you walk through your door. What if you walk through the door and the magic doesn’t happen because your air conditioning does not seem to be working? Here are some common air conditioner problems and possible remedies for the situation.

Related: How much does an air conditioner cost?

The system is running but the house is not cool and the air coming out of the vents does not have much pressure.

This very likely could be the result of a dirty air filter. Air conditioning systems need to be fed lots of air in order to initiate the cooling process in the system; a dirty air filter can almost completely shut the air flow to the unit down. To find out if this is the cause simply take the filter out and see how the system runs without it; if the air flow gets stronger and you start to feel cooler air after removing it you will know that was your problem.

Make cleaning and replacing your all-important air conditioning filters a part of your routine household maintenance schedule. When you by an air conditioning filter it should say right on it how long before they usually need to be replaced too. Dirty filters are the number one cause of air conditioner problems.

The air conditioning unit shuts on and off repeatedly.

This could be a problem with something blocking air flow to the unit if your air conditioning unit is based outside of your house or it could be something like a blocked condenser line or evaporator. Try removing any tall grass, weeds or brush that are growing around the unit and make sure there is no debris such as tree branches and wet leaves that are collecting inside or outside the unit. These types of things when bad enough can cause a variety of air conditioner problems.

The central air conditioning system does not work at all

The first thing to do here is to check all the electrical breakers on the system and check the master switch at the unit itself. If these are all on, next take a close look at the emergency disconnect and see if it shows any rust or other residue on the outside of the switch that may indicate corrosion (*** NEVER attempt to open the cover on an electrical device if you do not have working knowledge of electricity and the safety procedures for working on it***). If you have done these things and cannot get the unit to work you may need to call an electrician or HVAC technician to come out and look at it.

The general rule with any HVAC troubleshooting to take care of air conditioner problems is to look for the obvious such as dirty filters and debris around the unit and if these things do not correct the problem you will need to schedule a service appointment with a professional heating and air service company.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/air-conditioner-problems/

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Forced Heating and Allergy Sufferers: An Unfortunate Bond

A forced air heating system creates too many obstacles to overcome as the air is warmed in the utility room and sent through the duct system until blown out dirty registers and into a room.

At first glance, it would seem like the Winter is ideal for those who suffer allergies and colds year round. After all the flowers and pollen spreaders have died out, and the bitter air helps to slow down the reproduction of cells. While this is true, most of the Winter is spent indoors, what amounts to a prison of dander, debris, and other irritants constantly wreaking havoc from being blown about by a forced heating system. While turning off the furnace and being cold isn't a viable alternative to suffering indoor allergies, there are some ways to turn your home from a prison into a pure air playground.

Humidity

While one of the main jobs of an air-conditioner is to regulate the humidity in a room and prevent excess moisture, forced heating systems have a love/hate relationship with the H-word as well. Too much moisture in a house can lead to mold and mildew formation that is one of Allergy and even non-allergy sufferers biggest nightmares. Low humidity is also bad though as it leads to difficulty breathing as well as cracked skin. Make sure to buy a furnace that is the correct size for the space needing heat and supplement with a humidifier if the problem continues.

Dirty Filters

Leaving a filter to collect dust and debris for months or even years at a time drives up your energy bills and puts an unneeded stress on your HVAC system. Heating systems with dirty filters also wreak havoc on allergy suffers as well though. Old filters form holes that allow more and more dirt to escape which then gets cycled through the duct work and out the registers almost directly into the lungs. Now to go along with an excessive heating bill you also have a persistent cough all due to a $10 replacement item.

Forced Air Heating Systems As a Whole

Even if you change your filter persistently or purchase a special HEPA filter that attracts even more particles, if you suffer from allergies, you face too difficulties simply because the HVAC is a forced heating system. There are just too many obstacles to overcome as the forced air heating system warms the air and distributes the warm air via the duct system until being blown out dirty registers and into a room. Those with an extra special sensitivity to dust and dander could benefit with radiant heating systems instead. Radiant heat transfers energy instead of air and something like in-floor heating lifts up the warmth through the entire room without any physical disruption.

Allergies can be bad enough without a forced heating system. With proper care and product selection heating systems don't have to be a contributor and homeowners don't have to make the decision between air and warmth.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/forced-heating-system/

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How to Achieve High Furnace Air Quality During Cold Months

For those of us that suffer from allergies, indoor furnace air quality monitors are proving to be a winter lifesaver. Monitoring the levels of these elements in your home is greatly beneficial, especially in the winter where there is a minimal clean air source and where gas furnaces can malfunction and become dangerous.

Unless you're “lucky” enough to work outside during the cold winter months it's easy to feel like a hermit crab from around late November to early April every year. Besides the fact that it's dark so early there really aren't a whole lot of outdoor activities to partake in when the temperatures are in the single digits. Because most of our time is spent indoors during the winter, it's especially important to take steps to make sure the furnace air quality is top notch. The human body and immune system is more prone to breaking down in cold weather so don't escalate those weaknesses by inhaling a constant supply of allergens and dander – follow these tips:

Change Air Filters

Changing air filters is number 1, 1A, 2, and three on the list as I cannot stress its importance. Air filters should be changed up to once a month in the winter as the furnace is seemingly constantly running during these cold stretches. A dirty air filter filled with hair, dirt, and grime starts the irritation process by delivering this unhealthy furnace air quality to every room in the house. By having a clean filter every month you'll not only notice improved breathing, but also lower utility bills and a longer furnace life.

Ease Up on the Thermostat

While it may be tempting to hit up on the thermostat an extra time or two before nestling on the couch to watch a movie, doing so could bring on all sorts of problems with furnace air quality. Creating a more humid indoor environment leads to the formation of mold and mildew in addition to a dry environment that cracks skin and lips. If you are a person who believes that 24° to 30° is your winter comfort zone then at least purchase a humidifier to combat the tropical environment that you've created.

Open the Windows

For about five months in the winter, there's very little fresh air getting in the house. However, opening the windows for just five quick minutes a day can change the home's makeup during the winter. Some people even sleep better with the bedroom window open just a tad.

Purchase Air Quality Monitors

For those of us that suffer from allergies, indoor furnace air quality monitors are proving to be a winter lifesaver. Some of the things these amazing devices can detect include:

Carbon dioxide

Carbon monoxide

Particle matter

Gasses such as formaldehyde, ethylene glycol, benzene, acetone, and more

Temperature

Relative humidity

Monitoring the levels of these elements in your home is greatly beneficial, especially in the winter where there is a minimal clean air source and where gas furnaces can malfunction and become dangerous.

Purchase Air Cleaners and Purifiers

Another big step in improving indoor furnace air quality in the winter is with cleaners and purifiers. An example of how these machines work is by sending negative ions out which attract to positive airborne particles which help to remove smoke and odors. Furnace air quality is important so don't breath in toxins while you're trying just to stay warm.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/furnace-air-quality/

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Is Your Air Conditioning or Heating System Making You Sick?

Toxic indoor air can be costly and should be attacked head on with a proactive approach. Read these important steps to understanding how home air conditioning and your furnace can cause toxic air. Indoor air quality is important year-round but especially during the winter when we're forced to spend most of our time indoors to get away from the brutal cold spells. The quality of air in the home is bad enough with the filth of hair, pet dander, dust mites, and germs before you add a possible gas leak from a furnace or a faulty central AC into the mix. Either way toxic indoor air can be costly and should be attacked head on with a proactive approach. These are important steps to understanding home air conditioning as well because pure air is a necessity. Related: Air Conditioner Problems

Particle Counters

A particle counter will take a sample of the air and give a reading of the purity of the air. The results can be tracked for up to 30 days to find out just how many instances of dander and dust mites are in the air and if the methods you are taking to reduce it is actually working. A home air conditioning or furnace cycles these allergens all throughout the day so limiting them is important.

Gas Detectors

Not only is it important to monitor allergens in the air, but the presence of gas for obvious reasons. A faulty furnace or oven can lead to carbon monoxide or natural gas leaking into the home that can be deadly. A standard monitor costs only about $40 and simply plugs into a wall outlet. The unit gives a digital readout of the methane or carbon monoxide concentration and sends out a shrieking alarm when it detects a threat.

Temperature and Humidity Sensors

Temperature and humidity sensors are a nice item for homeowners that want to know that extra level of detail about the air in their home. A second temperature reading can come in handy if a thermostat is malfunctioning that in turn could be resulting in higher utility bills. Knowing humidity levels inside the home is also important in both hot and cold weather. Low humidity in the winter causes dry skin and throat while also damaging woodwork. Too much humidity from a home air conditioning leads to condensation that in turn enables mold and mildew to form causing breathing problems.

Mold Test Kits

A large mold growth on a sheet of drywall in the basement is easy to detect, but this toxin doesn't always work that visibly. Mold kits allow you to collect a sample and test it for 30+ different types of mold and allergens. Many even include options to send the sample to a lab for professional scanning.

Indoor Air Quality Audit

While many of the marketed home air quality testers are very reliable, there's no substitute to the atmosphere audit by a professional home air conditioning company. Specialty testing equipment can be used to inspect furnaces, duct work, basements, attics, and other potential problem areas to give the home or apartment a clean bill of health. Many clients opt for a seasonal audit in the fall time when the family spends more time outside. Living with poor indoor air quality can lead to serious health problems down the line and is outright dangerous. Thus, make sure the home air conditioning and heating are cycling a breathable and a livable air.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/home-air-conditioning/

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History of Air Conditioning - How AC Technology Existed

Old schematic illustrations of house aeration system. The history of air conditioning is fascinating. To many people, running their air-conditioner during the summer is as much of a tradition as drinking lemonade and cutting the grass. Obviously though it wasn't always that way. The popularity of watering holes in the early 1900's was at an all-time high because taking a dip was the only legitimate way to cool off on hot days. Even in the 1930's and 40's only the rich people owned air-conditioners, and they were the ones the least likely to work up a sweat! Eventually the big bulky window air-conditioners were the norm but they were often noisy and a complete drain on the power grid. Today it seems that the air-conditioning technology has come full circle as the units on the market are quiet, energy-efficient, inexpensive, and easy to install. That being said, let's take a closer look at the history of air conditioning.

1758: Franklin and Hadley Freeze Water

Benjamin Franklin (Writer, Inventor and Scientist) and a Cambridge University Professor (John Hadley) discovered that they could freeze water by evaporating highly volatile liquids such as alcohol.

1848: Gorrie Files Patent for Machine that Manufactures Ice

In 1941, Dr. John Gorrie commenced his research to manufacture an ice-making machine at the Florida hospital where he worked. Over several years, he designed a steam-powered machine that extracts heat from water, which in turn makes ice as it was cooled below freezing. Gorrie imagined that his invention would cool buildings all over the world, but his dream died when he was unsuccessful in securing financial backing. Modern refrigeration descends from Gorrie’s principles.

1902: Willis Carrier Invents the First Modern Air Conditioner

Those familiar with the Carrier Air Conditioner Company will recognize the name of Willis Carrier, the father of air-conditioning as we know it. Willis Carrier invented the first a/c, calling it the “Apparatus for Treating Air”, for the Sackett-Wilhelms Lithographing Company. The publishing company needed a way to keep the room temperature cool and the humidity down so the paper wouldn't wrinkle and the ink would stay aligned during production runs. Carrier's machine blows air over cold coils and into the room creating a comfortable work area. When word spread concerning this innovation, companies started lining up to bide for Carrier's services.

1906: Stuart Cramer Conditions the Air

The first term of 'air-conditioning' is used in 1906 by Stuart Cramer a mill engineer in North Carolina. Cramer added a ventilating device to Carrier's basic design that would add water vapor into the air. The design is basically contradictory of what air-conditioners do today as Cramer's a/c actually added humidity to the air so that yarn was easier to spin and more durable.

1914: Not Just For Factories Anymore

Conceivably, a device that keeps factories and mills cool would be a welcome addition to individuals struggling to deal with hot temperatures in their homes. In 1914 that became a reality but much like the first computers that took up a whole room, the first home a/c was 7 feet high, 6 feet wide, and 20 feet long (and people complain how heavy their window air conditioner is today!). The unit was installed in the mansion of a Minneapolis millionaire and was likely never used since it was a 'spare house' that nobody ever lived in.

1931: First Window Air Conditioners As They're Known Today

Having the foresight to understand that a 7' X 6' X 20' air conditioner just wasn't conceivable, two inventors came up with the design for an individual room a/c that sits on a window ledge. The incarnate principals of that first window air conditioner are still in use to this day and for much less than the $10,000 to $50,000 price tag of back then.

1939: Air Conditioning Comes to Cars

Cool air finally came to automobiles in 1939 but they were anything but convenient to operate. The dashboard controls as they're recognized today came down the line but in order to turn on the first a/c's drivers had to stop the engine and disconnect a compressor belt underneath the hood.

1942: Power Plants Do Their Part

With more and more people purchasing air-conditioners for their homes and business, the United States built the first “summer peaking” power plant that was effectively designed simply to handle all the excess electrical loads of air-conditioners being run in the summer.

1950's ERA: Air-Conditioners Become Mainstream

After World War II an economic boom surged that made it easier to manufacture air-conditioners, which in turn made them more affordable. This led to air-conditioners going from being a luxury item to a household norm. As a result, in 1953 over 1,000,000 air-conditioners are sold.

1970's ERA: Central Air Conditioners Hit the Market

The next big evolution in the life of air-conditioning is the advent of the central air units. Whereas window air-conditioners were designed to cool only one room, central a/c became popular because it cycled chilled air through duct work into any vented area in the house. The central air was generally quieter because the condenser and compressor units sat outside and the main noise was from an air handler located in a utility room or garage.

1990's ERA: Environmental Worries Challenge Air Conditioners

With central air conditioners being around for 20 years by the mid 1990's, it came as a shocking blow when it was discovered that the refrigerant used, Freon-12, was contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer. Several companies banned the refrigerant and major a/c manufacturers scampered to develop refrigerants that are more environmentally friendly.

2000's ERA: Smart Technologies Advance Air Conditioners Even Further

For the most part the same basic components that operated the first central air systems remained in place in modern times. One thing that changed was how those systems were controlled. With the advent of smart phones and programmable thermostats, people can now monitor their HVAC systems from across the globe as well as set their units to turn on and off at specific times of day such as when returning from work or while sleeping. These technologies are considered not only convenient, but have also contributed to increased energy efficiency as the systems run only when they are needed.

The History of Air Conditioning: What does the future hold?

The future of air-conditioning units is largely unknown. There are some next-level concepts in place such as cooling with sound-waves and using refrigeration free cooling methods which will probably be here sooner rather than later. It's hard to predict though, after all for all we know we may be living in an air-conditioned dome in a decade or so. I hope you enjoyed this article about the history of air conditioning. Other articles you many enjoy: History of Geothermal Heating All about home air conditioning What you need to know about AC repair

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5 Key Factors to Consider Before Buying Residential Furnaces

5 key factors to consider when replacing residential furnaces When purchasing some items the options are fairly limited and/or unimportant. It's not a huge deal-breaker if a cooler holds 48 or 60 beverages or if a backpack is red or blue. Unfortunately when it comes to appliances and equipment for the home the details are what make the purchase such an excruciating task. One such instance is when purchasing or replacing residential furnaces. At first glance one might think he or she will be able to walk into a dealer, tell them what kind of house they have, and have the furnace delivery man come in a day or two. As most people who have that thought soon find out, there's much more than meets the eye.

Energy Ratings

There are different energy ratings and minimum efficiency requirements depending on the climate in which you live. Those who live in areas with a milder winter won't need as high of an energy rating on their residential furnaces but those who have bitter cold spells would benefit from an upgrade. There's a slippery slope with energy ratings because the higher they are, the more the furnaces cost – but also the more money that will be saved in utility bills.

Gas, Fuel Oil, or Electricity

Often times when looking for a new residential furnace, the choice of whether to buy a gas, oil, or electric one is already made for you based on the house hookups. That being said while the basic essentials of how a furnace works internally are very similar, whether they run on gas, fuel oil, or electricity is a huge difference.

Single, Double, or Modulating

How many stages a furnace has kind of goes along with the energy rating but it is an important factor that sets residential furnaces apart. For instance a single stage is less expensive but has a burner that is either just 'on' or 'off'. A double stage has a setting where the burner and flame can be on 'high' and 'low' simultaneously depending on how much heat is needed. A modulating is most efficient because it has fine settings that kick out only the amount of heat that is needed.

Capacity

In essence the capacity of residential furnaces is basically their size. Capacity is very comparable to engine horsepower meaning that the physical size isn't that much different but the internal workings produce much more power. The capacity is measured in BTU and it's important to get a large enough capacity furnace to heat your entire house.

Conventional or Condensing

Conventional furnaces are the familiar older ones where the exhaust escapes out a chimney flue or vent whereas modern condensing heating units capture and break down the exhaust and use parts of it as a resource. Consumers now know there are options to consider when buying residential furnaces and they should no longer flip open a book and say, “that one will do.”

Related Posts...

Replacing Furnace? 6 Signs It’s Time!

Why Natural Gas Furnaces are Rates Best

History of Geothermal Heating

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Radiant Heating – Consistent Warmth, Low Energy Bills

Radiant heating is an exciting alternative for Edmonton homeowners looking for a cost-effective heating system that provides consistent warmth and low energy bills. If you are wondering if radiant heaters or in-floor heating are for you, let us familiarize you with how they work, the different types, and how they compare to the vastly popular furnace. This knowledge will help you decide if a radiant heating system is right for your home. Other Resource: Supplement your heating with infrared heat.

How They Work

Radiant heaters creates warmth through infrared light. You may remember from science class that we cannot see infrared light such as light from the sun. The sun emits light that heats our skin, clothes and other objects around us.  The heat transfer is called conduction.  When we go into the shade, we receive less direct light, and thus, less warmth. Once an object absorbs radiant heat, it then emits radiant heat to other objects, and so on.  The end result is even heat distribution throughout the house.

Types of Radiant Heaters

Radiant heating systems supply heat directly from the floors or from panels in the walls or ceiling of a house.

Radiant Floor Heaters

The two main types of radiant heating systems electric radiant floors, and hot water (hydronic) radiant floors. Electric radiant floors usually consist of electric cables built into the floor. However, due to the high cost of power, they are only viable if both of the following occurs:

the floor absorbs and retains heat for up to 10 hours (e.g., thick concrete floor); and

your local electrical company offers time-of-use rates (discounts for off-peak hours).

Electric radiant floors may be effective for home additions where it would be impractical to extend the heating system. Hydronic (liquid) systems are the most popular and cost-effective radiant heaters.  By way of tubing below the flooring, hydronic systems circulate heated water from a boiler.  By regulating the level of hot water, you can control the temperature of each room.

Radiant Panels

Radiant panels mounted on walls and ceiling are normally made of aluminum.  Both  electricity and hot water power radiant panels, although some consumers worry about leakage with the latter. Thus, the popular choice is electrically heated radiant panels. Like any type of heat powered by electricity, radiant panels are expensive to operate.  However, they are very useful as a backup heat source. Since radiant heating panels operate on a line-of-sight basis (you are more comfortable closer to the panel), some Edmonton homeowners don’t like that their heads and shoulders are warmer than the rest of their body with ceiling radiant systems.

Benefits of Radiant Heaters

Radiant heating:

Provides immediate heat. Within minutes of turning on the radiant heater, you will be warm. Other heating systems warm the surrounding air, which takes longer to heat.

Avoids allergens. Forced air systems heat rooms by circulating warm air, which contain dust and airborne particles that have gathered in the furnace. In contrast, radiant heaters emit light to heat objects. If you or your loved ones are prone to allergies, you may want to consider radiant heating.

Is more economical to operate. Radiant heating systems can cut heating costs by 25 to 50 percent.

Radiant heating systems do not use ducts. Ducts lose energy when air leaks into them or out of them. Moreover, duct systems lose energy when the hot air heats the duct walls. In winter, the duct walls in an attic or crawl space can be almost as cold as the outside.

Hydronic radiant systems use lower water temperatures than hydronic baseboards.

Radiant heating systems run on lower temperatures because they don't warm up the air like forced air systems. Instead, they radiate heat directly to the objects and people in a room.

Radiant heaters are virtually invisible. The heater occupies minimum space in your home. As a matter of fact, nobody will ever notice that you have a radiant heater.

Silent heat. Without a fan or blower, radiant heaters do not produce any sound.

Minimal maintenance. You do not need to clean your radiant heater because no dust and dirt ever enters the heater lines. On the other hand, forced air heating systems require regular maintenance (e.g., furnace, filters and ductwork).

Choosing the Right Type of Radiant Heating

For existing homes, the cost of labour and materials make it cost prohibitive to install radiant floor heating.  On the other hand, radian ceilings are cost-effective since all you have to do is lower a ceiling, making it a popular choice with homeowners. Radiant panels have the quickest response time of any heating technology.   Homeowners can increase the temperature setting and be comfortable within minutes.  Moreover, since panels can be individually controlled for each room, you can conserve energy by turning down the heat in rooms infrequently occupied. Radiant panels cost far less than radiant floors.  In most cases they cost less than half of a radiant floor.   They take less effort to design and install. Hydronic radiant heating (HRF) systems are less expensive to operate than panels since natural gas is cheaper than electricity.  Moreover, radiant floors are best in rooms with smooth surface floors (e.g., marble, tile stone or wood), such as bathrooms, where occupants are often barefoot.

Summary

You can use radiant heaters either as a main source of heating for your home or as a supplementary heating source. The cost of installing radiant heaters in your home may be more expensive than any other heating systems. However, if you look long-term, radiant heating is the most cost-effective and energy-efficient heating system available on the market today. Many homeowners in Edmonton are now shifting to a radiant heating that combines heating efficiency, energy efficiency and clean air without the need for bulky ductwork. A radiant heater is able to provide warmth at a low temperature setting. As well, you can lower temperatures in rooms used less often. Both contribute to lower energy bills. Being 100% efficient, radiant heaters are now gaining popularity for home heating in Edmonton and the rest of Canada. Radiant heaters transform all of the energy that passes through it into heat. Therefore, there is no unused heat energy. Contract a professional HVAC Contractor to find out if radiant heating is right for you.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/radiant-heating/

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How to Avoid Plumbing Supply Edmonton Scams

How to Spot a Plumbing Supply Scam In a perfect world when plumbing problems arise we could conveniently make a call, have the issue resolved, and settle up with no thoughts looking forward. As most of us know, the world of plumbing supply isn't always perfect. Unfortunately there are scammers out there that take advantage of you opening your door to them to either perform shoddy work, bill you for work not done, or attempt to convince and scare you that more repairs are needed imminently. You can get the upper hand and not let these degenerates win by learning how to spot a plumbing supply Edmonton scam.

If They Call “Their Guy”

One of the biggest red flags about a plumbing scam comes if the person who visits your home makes a call to 'their guy.' After all, why is the company not sending 'the guy' in the first place if they already know you're having plumbing or water heater issues. A common rhetoric from a service personnel goes something like “I just got off the phone with my guy and he says it's sounding like you need a new water heater.” First of all, the person on the other end of the phone hasn't seen the issues firsthand and this is likely just a way to use a middleman that may or may not exist to get you to purchase unneeded equipment or services.

If They Warn of Dire Circumstances

One way that plumbing supply Edmonton scams work is by using scare tactics to get you to purchase new or upgraded equipment that doesn't yet need replacing. For instance when checking out a water heater that is leaking, a scammer will often tell you that if you don't replace it the unit will turn into a pressure backed bomb that will level your house to smithereens. That's definitely a remote possibility with water heaters and tankless water heaters experiencing major issues but not indicative of one that simply needs the top nut tightened.

If They Don't Give a Thorough Inspection

Another good indicator of a possible plumbing supply scam in Edmonton is a super-quick diagnosis. Many times a plumbing inspector is nothing more than a salesperson whose job is to instantly sell you on an upgrade or replacement equipment. A quality 24 hour plumber will cover every area of your home to find the problem causing your issues. Even if a problem is cut and dried such as a clogged drain or cracked toilet, the inspector will take longer than 5 minutes to make the diagnosis because secondary issues might have arisen from the primary trouble spot. Also, it's important that the inspector or plumber shows you directly what the problem is to make sure they're not feeding you a line to get an upsell.

If They Don't Give Options

If a plumbing supply inspector in Edmonton or service tech gives you only one option for a fix (usually a very expensive one) then some questions should arise. What a quality technician will do is point out the problem and give you a number of solutions such as “we can solder the pipes together now but we'll probably have to end up replacing them altogether in the next 1-3 years.” Conversely a plumbing specialist who states that the 'only recourse is a complete replacement of all your pipes' is probably just serving with the bottom line as his or her motivator. The common denominator in all scams is money and when service personnel are constantly trying to make you spend more without offering alternative solutions it's a good indicator that some deceptive practices are in play.

By Getting a Second Opinion

The best way to decipher a scam is by getting multiple opinions on your plumbing supply issues. There will come times when a water heater needs fully replaced or pipes have expensive repairs attached to them but it's best to be sure. Unless multiple plumbing suppliers are corroborating on scamming you a common answer from two or more companies gives you the best answer to your problems. Conversely if multiple service technicians explain to you different problems you're facing there's a good chance one of them is being deceitful or is just inept at their job. You wouldn't trust a doctor that tells you in 5 minutes that amputating your arm is the only cure for a sore throat and you shouldn't listen to the first thing a supposed 'trusted' plumbing inspector tells you either.

By Seeing a License

A great way to tell if a plumbing supply Edmonton company is sincere or just trying to scam you is by seeing their license. A fly by night operation is only out looking to make a quick buck and are many times not even certified to inspect plumbing. Licensed contractors on the other hand no that their honesty and integrity is their lifeblood and bad marks from customers could mean the loss of their working privileges. Checking out a plumbers online reputation or getting word of mouth referrals from friends and neighbors is also a great way to find a quality supply company you can trust. Now there is a very real possibility that the plumbing supply company you hired is simply really bad at their job. That being said it's best to do business with a reputable company that is licensed and has an online presence that backs up their work. Fly by night operations are not plumbers, they're simply salesmen trying to take you for all your worth with no remorse. Quality plumbers care about a job done right and will stand by their word.

https://furnace-repair-edmonton.ca/plumbing-supply-edmonton/