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Buying a new furnace is one of the most important home decisions you’ll make — especially in Canada, where reliable heat isn’t optional. But with so many brands, models, and efficiency options, it can be tough to know what’s right for your home. Here’s everything you need to know before buying a new furnace, so you can stay warm, save money, and make an investment that lasts.
Before buying a new furnace, take time to understand your home’s heating needs, efficiency options, available rebates, and the importance of professional installation. Choosing the right furnace isn’t just about cost — it’s about long-term comfort, performance, and peace of mind.
A furnace isn’t just another appliance — it’s the heart of your home’s comfort system. When it starts to fail, you feel it everywhere: uneven warmth, higher bills, strange noises, and the constant worry that it might stop working on the coldest night of the year.
Choosing the right replacement isn’t just about picking the first model that fits your budget. It’s about understanding how size, efficiency, fuel type, and installation quality all impact long-term comfort and savings. A well-chosen furnace can keep your home cozy for 15–20 years, while the wrong one can lead to costly repairs, wasted energy, and poor air quality.
Whether you’re replacing an aging unit or buying your first furnace for a new home, this guide will walk you through the key things to consider — from efficiency ratings and rebates to warranties and proper installation.
At Econoair, we help homeowners across Toronto and the GTA make smart, economical decisions when it comes to heating and cooling. Here’s what to know before you buy your next furnace.
Not all furnaces are created equal. Before buying, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they fit your home’s specific needs.
Gas Furnaces
Gas furnaces are the most common choice in Ontario. They run on natural gas and are known for delivering strong, consistent heat — even during extreme cold. Modern gas furnaces can reach efficiency levels of 95–98% AFUE, meaning almost all the fuel is converted into usable heat. They’re cost-effective to run and ideal for most homes with existing gas lines.
Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces are another option, often chosen in areas where natural gas isn’t available. They’re clean, quiet, and relatively easy to install — but they can be more expensive to operate due to higher electricity costs.
Oil Furnaces
Oil furnaces are less common today but still used in older homes or rural areas without access to natural gas. While they deliver powerful heat, they require more frequent maintenance and can have higher operating costs.
Modulating and Two-Stage Furnaces
If you’re looking for comfort and efficiency, modulating or two-stage furnaces are worth considering.
Two-stage furnaces have two heat settings — low for mild days and high for very cold ones. This means they run more evenly and quietly.
Modulating furnaces adjust their heat output in small increments for maximum comfort and energy efficiency.
Understanding which type suits your home helps you balance performance, cost, and comfort before making a decision.
The most important number to look for when shopping for a furnace is its AFUE rating — or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This tells you how efficiently your furnace converts fuel into heat.
A furnace with 95% AFUE converts 95% of its fuel into usable heat, wasting only 5%.
Older furnaces may have ratings as low as 60–70%, meaning you could be losing up to 40% of your heating energy through exhaust gases.
High-Efficiency vs. Standard-Efficiency Furnaces
Standard-efficiency models (80–89% AFUE): Lower upfront cost but higher long-term energy bills.
High-efficiency models (90–98% AFUE): Cost more initially but can reduce your monthly heating bills by 15–30%.
Energy Savings Example
Let’s say you spend $1,500 annually heating your home with an 80% AFUE furnace. Upgrading to a 96% model could save you about $300 each year. Over 15 years, that’s $4,500 in energy savings — enough to pay for the upgrade.
Additional Features to Consider
Modern furnaces often come with:
Variable-speed blowers for quieter operation and better airflow.
Smart thermostats that optimize efficiency.
Sealed combustion chambers for improved safety and reduced heat loss.
Efficiency doesn’t just lower your bills — it improves your comfort and helps reduce your carbon footprint.
Even the most efficient furnace won’t perform well if it’s the wrong size for your home or poorly installed.
Why Size Matters
If your furnace is too small, it will struggle to keep up, running constantly and wearing out faster.
If it’s too large, it will short-cycle — turning on and off too often — which wastes energy, causes uneven heating, and reduces lifespan.
The Importance of a Load Calculation
A professional installer should perform a heat load calculation, which considers:
Home square footage
Insulation quality
Window efficiency
Ceiling height
Local climate conditions
This ensures your furnace is perfectly matched to your home’s heating needs.
Proper Installation
Installation affects up to 50% of your system’s performance. Even a high-end furnace won’t work efficiently if it’s poorly installed or incorrectly vented. Always hire licensed, experienced technicians — like Econoair’s team — who follow safety codes and manufacturer guidelines.
A correct installation means better efficiency, longer lifespan, quieter operation, and fewer repairs down the road.
Buying a new furnace can feel like a big investment, but there are plenty of ways to make it more affordable and secure.
Government Rebates and Incentives
Homeowners across Ontario may qualify for rebates on high-efficiency furnaces or heat pumps through federal and provincial programs. These incentives can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars when upgrading to an energy-efficient model.
Econoair helps customers identify eligible rebates and guides them through the application process — so you don’t leave money on the table.
Manufacturer Warranties
A strong warranty protects your investment. Look for:
10-year parts warranty for major components.
Lifetime heat exchanger warranty (offered by brands like Carrier).
Optional labour warranty to cover repair costs.
Always confirm what’s included and keep your warranty valid by scheduling annual maintenance.
Econo Care Plan
To make maintenance simple, Econoair offers two Econo Care Plan options — one with annual maintenance included and one without. Regular tune-ups help prevent costly breakdowns, improve performance, and extend your furnace’s lifespan.
With the right rebate, warranty, and care plan, your furnace purchase becomes a smart long-term investment rather than just another expense.
Even the best furnace won’t deliver results without the right team behind it. Choosing a trusted HVAC company ensures your investment pays off in comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
What to Look for in a Contractor
Licensing and Certification – Always verify that your installer is TSSA-certified and insured.
Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees or surprise charges.
Experience and Reputation – Read reviews and ask for references.
Full-Service Support – From installation to maintenance, look for a company that’s there year-round.
Why Homeowners Trust Econoair
At Econoair, we take pride in providing honest, reliable, and economical HVAC solutions across Toronto and the GTA. Our licensed technicians don’t just install furnaces — they guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right system to ensuring it runs efficiently for years to come.
We work with top brands like Carrier, offer transparent quotes, and back every installation with exceptional service and support.
When you choose Econoair, you’re choosing comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind — without overpaying for quality.
Explore Econoair’s most popular high-efficiency furnaces trusted by homeowners across Toronto, Richmond Hill, and the GTA. Each model is selected for its reliability, performance, and energy savings — keeping your home warm and efficient all winter long.
ENERGY STAR® certified. Our highest efficiency and most advanced furnace with up to 98.5% AFUE for premium energy savings with excellent humidity control and premium comfort
ENERGY STAR® certified. Up to 96.7% AFUE for premium energy savings with enhanced comfort features.
ENERGY STAR® certified. Up to 96.7% AFUE for premium energy savings with enhanced comfort features.
A new furnace in Toronto typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on your home’s size, insulation, and the furnace’s efficiency rating. High-efficiency models cost more upfront but can save you hundreds of dollars annually on heating bills. At Econoair, we provide free consultations and upfront pricing so you can make the best decision for your budget. We also help homeowners explore available rebates and financing options, making it easier to invest in comfort and long-term savings.
Choosing the right furnace size is critical. An oversized furnace wastes energy, while an undersized one can’t keep up with demand. A professional HVAC technician should perform a heat load calculation, which considers your home’s square footage, insulation, ceiling height, and window efficiency. At Econoair, we ensure every system we install is perfectly matched to your home’s heating needs — maximizing comfort and efficiency across every room.
Yes! Homeowners in Ontario can take advantage of government rebates and manufacturer incentives for upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace or heat pump. Programs like Enbridge’s Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) can help you save up to $10,000 when paired with energy-saving home upgrades. Econoair’s team handles the paperwork and rebate process so you can focus on enjoying your new, efficient system — without the stress.
Most furnace installations in the GTA take between 4 and 8 hours, depending on your home’s layout and the type of furnace being installed. If ductwork adjustments or venting updates are needed, it might take longer. Econoair’s licensed technicians complete installations efficiently and safely — often on the same day. We also offer evening and weekend appointments to fit your schedule.
The best time to buy a furnace in Toronto is spring or early fall, before the winter rush. HVAC companies often offer seasonal promotions, discounts, and rebates during these months. However, if your furnace fails in winter, Econoair provides 24/7 emergency service across the GTA — ensuring you’re never left in the cold.
Yes, a high-efficiency furnace (95%+ AFUE) is ideal for Toronto’s cold winters. These furnaces convert nearly all fuel into usable heat, keeping your home consistently warm while cutting energy costs. They’re quieter, better for the environment, and often eligible for rebates and financing programs. With energy prices rising, a high-efficiency furnace is a smart long-term investment for any Toronto homeowner.
Econoair proudly installs Carrier furnaces, trusted for their reliability, quiet operation, and superior performance in Canadian winters. Carrier’s advanced technology ensures precise temperature control and long-lasting comfort. We also offer models with modulating heat systems and variable-speed blowers, giving homeowners optimal efficiency and consistent warmth. Every Carrier furnace we install comes with strong warranties and expert service support from Econoair’s certified team.
You should have your furnace serviced once a year, ideally before winter. Annual maintenance helps catch small issues early, improves energy efficiency, and extends your furnace’s lifespan. It also keeps your manufacturer warranty valid. With Econoair’s Econo Care Plans, homeowners enjoy priority service, annual tune-ups, and discounts on repairs — ensuring your system runs smoothly all season long.
Econoair proudly provides furnace installation, repair, and maintenance across Toronto, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Markham, Mississauga, Brampton, Aurora, and the entire GTA. Our local team of licensed HVAC professionals offers fast response times, honest quotes, and professional service — day or night. Whether you’re in a downtown condo or a suburban home, we’re just a call away.
Booking your consultation is simple! You can call (416) 123-4567, visit econoair.ca, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation quote. Our technicians will assess your home, explain your options, and recommend the best system for your comfort and budget. With transparent pricing and expert advice, Econoair makes upgrading your furnace easy and affordable.
Econoair is one of Toronto and the GTA’s most trusted furnace experts, helping homeowners make informed decisions before investing in a new high-efficiency system. Our team provides honest guidance, professional installation, and energy-saving solutions designed to fit your home, comfort needs, and budget.
From choosing the right furnace size and efficiency rating to understanding rebate programs and long-term maintenance, our licensed technicians are here to simplify the process and ensure you get the best value for your investment.
We proudly serve Toronto, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Markham, Mississauga, Brampton, Scarborough, and surrounding GTA areas, helping homeowners reduce energy bills, improve comfort, and enjoy reliable heating all winter long.
Whether you’re replacing an older system or upgrading to a high-efficiency model, Econoair makes buying a new furnace easy, transparent, and worry-free — with 24/7 support, competitive pricing, and guaranteed satisfaction.
Unsure what you require or what system you have? Call us!
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