Assessing Your Current Home Heating System

According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), 17% of the energy used in Canada today is used to run our homes. Within the home, nearly 50% of that energy goes towards heating and cooling. Clearly, greater efficiency in our home heating and cooling systems can save us money and help reduce our energy consumption.

NRCan recommends the use of Energy Star (high-efficiency) furnaces to help control heating costs and reduce harmful carbon dioxide emissions. An Energy Star furnace has an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90% or more, compared to 60% in older furnace models. According to Alberta's Climate Change Central website, a new Energy Star furnace can also reduce annual fuel costs by up to 30%.

Before you contact your local HVAC specialist to inquire about a new furnace, make sure you follow the procedures required to qualify you for government rebates. The first step is to get an energy audit done by a licensed, independent energy advisor.

The simple assessment outlines the steps that you can take to improve the energy efficiency in your home. It also provides a benchmark efficiency level for you to use when seeking grants, many of which are based on the amount of improvement in your home's energy efficiency. After you've done your retrofits, a second assessment will be done to prove that the changes were made and to gauge your new efficiency level.

Consult the NRCan Website for a list of licensed companies.

Installing Your New Furnace

Once your energy audit is complete, you can speak to your local HVAC company to select a new high-efficiency furnace.

To qualify for a grant, you need to complete the work within 18 months of your first energy audit. HVAC companies can get busy at certain times of the year, so don't wait until the last minute.

Your HVAC dealer will help you decide on a new furnace. There are many makes and models to choose from, so a professional can help you make the right choice. Here are few factors to consider:

• Size – You need a furnace that suits the size of your home. Too much furnace will be a waste of money, and too little will leave you cold.

• Two-stage heating – Two-stage furnaces work at a lower level until the temperature drops by a significant amount. These furnaces are usually quieter too.

• Variable speed DC motor – Running on a lower fan speed most of the time, furnaces with a DC motor save energy and run more quietly.

If you install a new furnace with an AFUE rating of 92% or higher and a variable DC motor, you can get a $500 rebate from the federal government, and may be eligible for additional rebates from your province. With new incentives promised in the most recent federal budget, you may be eligible for even more savings.

New Furnace, More Cash on Hand

We're all looking for ways to save money, but it's even better if we can save money and help the environment at the same time. With governments prepared to help with the costs, now is the time to consider a new furnace. Contact your local HVAC company to learn more.