5 Furnace Features that Best Protects Against the Cold Weather in Canada
Winters are getting more intense with every passing year, thanks to the increasing effects of global warming around the world. In lieu of such extreme conditions, it is important that we take every mandatory measure to ensure our families and loved ones stay safe and secure as nature unleashes its fury outside. One of the fundamental components of these measures is a furnace.
Over time, furnaces have evolved. Today, the old gas furnace will drain out the energy bill and still not provide the required results. So, what are the features that are important to look for while you go out shopping for a furnace in preparation for the winters?
1. Things Like: Size and Brand are Very Important
Before you head out to the market, make sure you know your requirements accurately. You can have the internet aid your efforts in determining these. A large furnace in a small house or a lesser known brand will launch your energy bill skywards leaving you sweating in the extreme cold. Brands have counterfeits as well, so make sure you’re extremely thorough before paying for a new system.
2. An Energy Efficiency Certification
Energy efficiency certification is proof that the system meets official standards set by the concerned government department, in terms of emissions and energy consumed. It is recommended not to buy a furnace system without an energy certification because it will not only put a dent in your pocket, but will also make you prone to government fines when the system is detected.
3. Variable Speed Blowers
A blower is the fan that directs the conditioned air towards and out of the vents. Variable speed blowers mean that these systems are electronically controlled to adjust the blower speeds according to the temperature of the surrounding environment. Blowers running at constant speeds obviously consume more energy in the same time as compared to those that adjust according to the temperature of the room. According to estimates, these blowers are able to reduce overall energy bills by 60% – 75%.
4. Smart Thermostat
The old pilot lights in furnaces have now been replaced by thermostats that control the amount of heat delivered by the furnace in a home. Additional features you can purchase are smart thermostat compatible furnace systems. These thermostats starts work in a similar fashion to the variable speed blowers. However, it is much more efficient because it controls the overall amount of electricity that flows into the system, thus saving more.
5. Additional Safety Features
Features like limit switches and carbon monoxide sensors are sold as extras. These options, are vital and you should consider investing in them since they keep your belongings and loved ones safe, in case of an emergency or malfunction. Carbon monoxide is a lethal gas that is produced during combustion and can prove fatal if inhaled in large quantities. Carbon monoxide sensors can detect and trigger a warning if the level of this toxic gas rises in the house.
Furnaces, like all electrical equipment, are becoming smarter and intelligent due to high tech features. It is a wise choice to invest in furnace systems that incorporate some of these features like; variable speed blowers, and smart thermostats, because they are an immense help in substantially lowering your energy bills.
