We understand that our industry and its products can be difficult to comprehend due to the extensive knowledge required. That's why we are here to help make your heating and cooling experience easier to understand.
Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section contains a wealth of information for you to explore. While this information only covers the basics, we believe it's our responsibility to provide you with advice and access to HVAC product and service knowledge. A well-informed customer is our ideal customer.
Our FAQ section is divided into the following categories:
1. Common Industry Terminology
2. Brands Offered
3. Promotions/Rebates
4. Tips for Property Owners
5. General HVAC Questions
6. Cooling-related Questions
7. Heating-related Questions
We hope this information proves helpful to you, and please feel free to contact us by telephone at (905) 619-5000 or by email with any questions.
Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section contains a wealth of information for you to explore. While this information only covers the basics, we believe it's our responsibility to provide you with advice and access to HVAC product and service knowledge. A well-informed customer is our ideal customer.
Our FAQ section is divided into the following categories:
1. Common Industry Terminology
2. Brands Offered
3. Promotions/Rebates
4. Tips for Property Owners
5. General HVAC Questions
6. Cooling-related Questions
7. Heating-related Questions
We hope this information proves helpful to you, and please feel free to contact us by telephone at (905) 619-5000 or by email with any questions.
COMMON INDUSTRY TERMINOLOGY
HVAC - Heating, ventilating and air conditioning. This term applies both to the heating and cooling industry and to the products they manufacture.
ARI - Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute. A non-profit, voluntary organization comprised of HVAC manufacturers. ARI publishes standards for testing and rating heat pumps and air conditioners and ensures a level of quality within the industry.
Btu - British thermal unit. This is the amount of heat that will raise or lower the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Btuh - British thermal units per hour. A measure of heat transfer rate.
COP - Coefficient of Performance. This is a measurement of a heat pump’s heating capacity against the amount of electricity required to operate it.
SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. It is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of a continuously operating air conditioner by the electric power input. The higher the SEER, the less your unit will cost to operate. SEER2 takes into account real-time variations, providing a more comprehensive understanding of a system’s performance. The key takeaway: It’s not about having the highest SEER, but more about the right SEER for your needs and corresponding to your living conditions.
HSPF - Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. This measurement is similar to SEER, but it measures the efficiency of the heating portion of your heat pump. Like the SEER, HSPF industry minimums have risen in recent years. The current industry minimum is 6.80 HSPF.
Ton - A ton is 12,000 Btuh. A typical single family residence uses air conditioning or heat pumps ranging between two and five tons of capacity.
Watt (W) - A unit of electrical power.
Kilowatt (kW) - One thousand watts.
KWh - Kilowatt-hour. A unit of electrical energy equal to the work done by one kilowatt acting for one hour of heating, ventilating and air conditioning.
ARI - Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute. A non-profit, voluntary organization comprised of HVAC manufacturers. ARI publishes standards for testing and rating heat pumps and air conditioners and ensures a level of quality within the industry.
Btu - British thermal unit. This is the amount of heat that will raise or lower the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
Btuh - British thermal units per hour. A measure of heat transfer rate.
COP - Coefficient of Performance. This is a measurement of a heat pump’s heating capacity against the amount of electricity required to operate it.
SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. It is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of a continuously operating air conditioner by the electric power input. The higher the SEER, the less your unit will cost to operate. SEER2 takes into account real-time variations, providing a more comprehensive understanding of a system’s performance. The key takeaway: It’s not about having the highest SEER, but more about the right SEER for your needs and corresponding to your living conditions.
HSPF - Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. This measurement is similar to SEER, but it measures the efficiency of the heating portion of your heat pump. Like the SEER, HSPF industry minimums have risen in recent years. The current industry minimum is 6.80 HSPF.
Ton - A ton is 12,000 Btuh. A typical single family residence uses air conditioning or heat pumps ranging between two and five tons of capacity.
Watt (W) - A unit of electrical power.
Kilowatt (kW) - One thousand watts.
KWh - Kilowatt-hour. A unit of electrical energy equal to the work done by one kilowatt acting for one hour of heating, ventilating and air conditioning.
what brands does comfortwave offer?
See our 'Brands' page.
what promotions and rebates are currently available?
- See our 'Promotions and Rebates' page.
tips for property owners
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1. Importance of Regular HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency and can prevent costly repairs in future. If you notice an increase in energy consumption when usage is unchanged, it could be an issue with your HVAC system. Dirty filters, duct leaks, low refrigerant, failing parts or other issues could be the cause. Comfortwave recommends scheduling two seasonal HVAC tune-ups each year: one in the spring for the air conditioning and one in the fall for the heating and humidifier. Request Preventative Maintenance. Click here to book your maintenance. |
2. Keep the Area Around Your HVAC Units Clear
Many home and business owners lack the desired storage space and store items dangerously close to their HVAC equipment. This can potentially pose a safety risk. Did you know:
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3. Regulate Your Home Temperature based on Schedule
Operate your HVAC system based on your schedule. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature at different times of the day, using systems less when you are away from home or sleeping. Adjusting the temperature by just a couple of degrees will result in the system running less frequently, using less power, and lasting longer.
4. Install and Maintain your Carbon Monoxide Detector
A carbon monoxide detector is an essential safety device in homes with combustion-based heating systems such as natural gas or fuel oil. It monitors the level of carbon monoxide in the air and sounds the alarm if unsafe levels are present. Carbon monoxide can build when clutter around an HVAC unit prohibits adequate air movement and ventilation. Similarly, if your HVAC system is not serviced on a regular basis by a qualified technician. Book your system maintenance now!
Operate your HVAC system based on your schedule. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature at different times of the day, using systems less when you are away from home or sleeping. Adjusting the temperature by just a couple of degrees will result in the system running less frequently, using less power, and lasting longer.
4. Install and Maintain your Carbon Monoxide Detector
A carbon monoxide detector is an essential safety device in homes with combustion-based heating systems such as natural gas or fuel oil. It monitors the level of carbon monoxide in the air and sounds the alarm if unsafe levels are present. Carbon monoxide can build when clutter around an HVAC unit prohibits adequate air movement and ventilation. Similarly, if your HVAC system is not serviced on a regular basis by a qualified technician. Book your system maintenance now!
general hvac faqs
What is HVAC?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning and covers everything from your heating/air conditioning source to the ventilation systems. All homes have some form of HVAC system, but not all homes have Air Conditioning (AC). The extent of the system depends on the climate and personal preferences.
What are the latest innovations in hvac?
HVAC manufacturers are focused on creating systems that deliver optimal performance with minimal noise, minimal energy use, and reduced environmental impact. Comfortwave has witnessed increased demand for Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps and Smart HVAC Technology, with a renewed focus on Indoor Air Quality.
Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps
Comfortwave recommends cold climate air source heat pumps as a smart choice for both your bottom line and the environment. These heat pumps:
Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps
Comfortwave recommends cold climate air source heat pumps as a smart choice for both your bottom line and the environment. These heat pumps:
- Are specially adapted to the cold Canadian climate
- Provide both heating and cooling in your home by controlling where the heat is transferred (inside or outside)
- Are up to three times more efficient than oil furnaces or boilers
- Dramatically reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and your carbon footprint, as compared to systems which rely on fossil fuels
- Often qualify for government grants
- In Ontario, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program (a partnership between Enbridge Gas and the Canada Greener Homes Grant) has been a huge success recently. More than 100,000 Ontario households took part in the program contributing to a cleaner energy future, by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The response was overwhelming.
- Comfortwave saw a significant rise in HVAC installations as a result of the grant programs and supported customers through the grant application process. See https://www.enbridgegas.com/ontario/rebates-energy-conservation/home-efficiency-rebate-plus
A Rise in Smart HVAC Technology
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New Focus on Indoor Air Quality
Noise Reduction Technologies
- Comfortwave witnessed an increased focus on indoor air quality in the wake of COVID-19 when public health agencies recommended consulting an HVAC professional to help improve indoor air quality. See https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/guidance-documents/guide-indoor-ventilation-covid-19-pandemic.html.
- Demand for portable air filtration devices with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters continues. Comfortwave customers are now more focused on scheduling regular HVAC system maintenance and are purchasing filters that are most efficient at removing particles.
Noise Reduction Technologies
- Comfortwave customers are looking for modern technologies aimed at reducing noise created by HVAC units. They are interested in sophisticated designs for quieter fans, materials that absorb sound, and soundproof enclosures to quieten the noise coming from compressors and air conditioning units. Furthermore, methods to isolate vibrations and materials for lining ducts can reduce the noise that travels through the ducts. In summary, Comfortwave helps customers choose HVAC systems that work more quietly and offer a more serene environment.
What is the ideal SEER2 rating for my home?
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rates how efficient an AC unit is at converting energy into cooling. A higher SEER rating means more efficiency. SEER2 is an updated version of SEER for air conditioners and heat pumps, effective January 2023. Manufacturers are now introducing systems that boast higher SEER2 ratings, translating to lower energy consumption and lower household bills.
What is the ideal SEER2 rating for your home? It’s difficult to provide a quick answer because an ideal rating depends on several factors unique to each home including size, location, and personal preferences. Since SEER2 ratings vary, it’s important to talk to a specialist at Comfortwave about your needs and energy savings goals. Comfortwave also recommends that you keep an eye out for ultra-high-efficiency models that could redefine how we heat and cool our homes in the future.
What is the ideal SEER2 rating for your home? It’s difficult to provide a quick answer because an ideal rating depends on several factors unique to each home including size, location, and personal preferences. Since SEER2 ratings vary, it’s important to talk to a specialist at Comfortwave about your needs and energy savings goals. Comfortwave also recommends that you keep an eye out for ultra-high-efficiency models that could redefine how we heat and cool our homes in the future.
What kinds of HVAC costs are involved in a home renovation?
The cost for a professional installation of a new HVAC system depends on many factors such as:
- Size of the home (which dictates the capacity of the units)
- Efficiency ratings desired (SEER) – typically the more energy efficient a system is, the more expensive it is upfront
- Type of system, with or without ducts, etc.
- Brand
- Any additional features or accessories such as humidifier, air exchanger, etc.
- Amount of work needed and the cost of labour in your area
what is the average lifespan of an hvac system?
Lifespan varies based on climate, usage, brand, quality of parts, and whether the unit was properly installed and maintained. AC’s and furnaces typically start to deteriorate anytime after the 10-year mark.
Comfortwave recommends that you start planning to replace your HVAC equipment when you notice that your system isn’t as reliable/efficient as it used to be. This may help avoid having your system crash on the coldest night or hottest day.
Comfortwave recommends that you start planning to replace your HVAC equipment when you notice that your system isn’t as reliable/efficient as it used to be. This may help avoid having your system crash on the coldest night or hottest day.
Do i have to replace my AC and furnace at the same time?
No, you do not generally need to replace both units at the same time; however, you may qualify for rebates or other discounts by replacing both at once.
How to Choose an HVAC Contractor?
Finding the right HVAC contractor can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the industry. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision, from checking credentials and experience to seeking reviews and comparing quotes.
Licensing and certification
Before hiring an HVAC contractor, ensure they are licensed and certified as having the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to handle your HVAC needs while adhering to safety guidelines.
Great customer service
Ensure your contractor is easy to communicate with and will take the time to answer your questions and concerns. Confirm whether the contractor is available to respond to any emergency situations such as when your system is down.
Experience
Before hiring an HVAC contractor, it's important to check how long they have been in business and how they will support any warranty claims in the future. Get to know the contractor by browsing their website or social media and see if they have elite status for example.
Comfortwave has been family-owned and operated since 2002 by Gord Foley and his wife Sharon. Their son Daniel has recently joined the company.
Comfortwave is recognized as a TEMPSTAR Elite Dealer, although less than 10% of dealers qualify for this designation. Our elite status allows us to offer perks such as longer warranties while ensuring our staff has the latest training.
Licensing and certification
Before hiring an HVAC contractor, ensure they are licensed and certified as having the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to handle your HVAC needs while adhering to safety guidelines.
Great customer service
Ensure your contractor is easy to communicate with and will take the time to answer your questions and concerns. Confirm whether the contractor is available to respond to any emergency situations such as when your system is down.
Experience
Before hiring an HVAC contractor, it's important to check how long they have been in business and how they will support any warranty claims in the future. Get to know the contractor by browsing their website or social media and see if they have elite status for example.
Comfortwave has been family-owned and operated since 2002 by Gord Foley and his wife Sharon. Their son Daniel has recently joined the company.
Comfortwave is recognized as a TEMPSTAR Elite Dealer, although less than 10% of dealers qualify for this designation. Our elite status allows us to offer perks such as longer warranties while ensuring our staff has the latest training.
how do i decide whether to repair or replace an existing unit?
When the system starts giving you more problems than seem cost-effective to fix, particularly when major components start making unusual noises or otherwise indicating the need for a service call, it may make sense to consider replacing the system. New technology has resulted in quieter systems that offer greater efficiency, reduced carbon footprint and lower operating costs.
A new report and online calculator from the Canadian Climate Institute are the latest to show that many Canadian households could save money by making the switch. Source: CBC News. |
Comfortwave recommends cold climate air source heat pumps as a smart choice for both your bottom line and the environment. These heat pumps:
- Are specially adapted to the cold Canadian climate
- Provide both heating and cooling in your home by controlling where the heat is transferred (inside or outside)
- Are up to three times more efficient than oil furnaces or boilers
- Dramatically reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and your carbon footprint, as compared to systems which rely on fossil fuels
- Often qualify for government grants
- In Ontario, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program (a partnership between Enbridge Gas and the Canada Greener Homes Grant) has been a huge success recently. More than 100,000 Ontario households took part in the program contributing to a cleaner energy future, by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The response was overwhelming.
- Comfortwave saw a significant rise in HVAC installations as a result of the grant programs, and supported customers through the grant application process. See https://www.enbridgegas.com/ontario/rebates-energy-conservation/home-efficiency-rebate-plus
cooling-related faqs
what do all those heat pump and air conditioning ratings mean?
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the array of efficiency ratings, abbreviations and acronyms used to describe or explain heat pumps and air conditioners! In this fact sheet, we’ll tell you what they all mean and how you can use the knowledge gained to make a more informed choice on your comfort needs.
EFFICIENCY RATINGS
SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. It is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of a continuously operating air conditioner by the electric power input. The higher the SEER, the less your unit will cost to operate.
HSPF - Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. This measurement is similar to SEER, but it measures the efficiency of the heating portion of your heat pump. Like the SEER, HSPF industry minimums have risen in recent years. The current industry minimum is 6.80 HSPF.
SOUND RATINGS
In recent years, HVAC equipment has not only gotten more energy efficient, it has gotten quieter. Although sound does not affect the efficiency of a unit, it can certainly affect your comfort. If your unit has a low sound level, you (and your neighbors) will hardly notice when it is operating.
db - Decibel. A term to describe the relative loudness of a sound. Typically, heat pumps and air conditioners are between the sound of a human voice (70 db) and a blender (88 db).
SRN - Sound Rating Number. A unit based on ARI tests. Average sound ratings range from 74 to 80 db. The lower the SRN rating, the quieter the unit.
COMFORT SYSTEMS
Heat pumps and air conditioner systems have an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit is the actual heat pump or air conditioner. The indoor unit includes the coil or blower coil. Combinations of various units result in vastly different efficiency ratings.
THE PRICE OF QUALITY
There is more to buying a heat pump or air conditioner than ratings. The quality of construction and materials used as well as the reliability of the manufacturer and installing contractor can all affect your long-term satisfaction and comfort. Top quality, high-efficiency equipment will cost more initially, but it will save you money on utility bills and service calls for years to come. Be sure to weigh all the factors before choosing your new system.
Comfortwave offers a full line of top quality, high-efficiency heat pumps and air conditioners to meet any comfort needs. Let Comfortwave recommend the best system for your home and lifestyle. Book your free quote now!
EFFICIENCY RATINGS
SEER - Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. It is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of a continuously operating air conditioner by the electric power input. The higher the SEER, the less your unit will cost to operate.
HSPF - Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. This measurement is similar to SEER, but it measures the efficiency of the heating portion of your heat pump. Like the SEER, HSPF industry minimums have risen in recent years. The current industry minimum is 6.80 HSPF.
SOUND RATINGS
In recent years, HVAC equipment has not only gotten more energy efficient, it has gotten quieter. Although sound does not affect the efficiency of a unit, it can certainly affect your comfort. If your unit has a low sound level, you (and your neighbors) will hardly notice when it is operating.
db - Decibel. A term to describe the relative loudness of a sound. Typically, heat pumps and air conditioners are between the sound of a human voice (70 db) and a blender (88 db).
SRN - Sound Rating Number. A unit based on ARI tests. Average sound ratings range from 74 to 80 db. The lower the SRN rating, the quieter the unit.
COMFORT SYSTEMS
Heat pumps and air conditioner systems have an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit is the actual heat pump or air conditioner. The indoor unit includes the coil or blower coil. Combinations of various units result in vastly different efficiency ratings.
THE PRICE OF QUALITY
There is more to buying a heat pump or air conditioner than ratings. The quality of construction and materials used as well as the reliability of the manufacturer and installing contractor can all affect your long-term satisfaction and comfort. Top quality, high-efficiency equipment will cost more initially, but it will save you money on utility bills and service calls for years to come. Be sure to weigh all the factors before choosing your new system.
Comfortwave offers a full line of top quality, high-efficiency heat pumps and air conditioners to meet any comfort needs. Let Comfortwave recommend the best system for your home and lifestyle. Book your free quote now!
when should i replace my old air conditioning system?
There are actually several situations in which you should consider replacing your current air conditioning system. For instance, if you have to call for repairs for your current system repeatedly, your system probably doesn’t have many good years left. And even if the repairs are relatively minor, they’re still costing you money every time you have someone come out.
Rather than continuing to dump money into a system that probably isn’t working all that efficiently to begin with, it makes much more sense to simply invest in a new system now. You’ll start saving right away on your energy bills and you won’t have to worry about whether or not your air conditioner is going to work on any given day.
You many even want to consider replacing an older air conditioning system that’s still working fine because newer models are so much more energy efficient than even those installed 10 years ago. Since you’ll likely have to replace your AC in a few years anyway, you’re better off investing in a new system now so that you can start saving on your energy bills right away.
Please also see our Promotions and Rebates. There may be time-sensitive offers available.
Rather than continuing to dump money into a system that probably isn’t working all that efficiently to begin with, it makes much more sense to simply invest in a new system now. You’ll start saving right away on your energy bills and you won’t have to worry about whether or not your air conditioner is going to work on any given day.
You many even want to consider replacing an older air conditioning system that’s still working fine because newer models are so much more energy efficient than even those installed 10 years ago. Since you’ll likely have to replace your AC in a few years anyway, you’re better off investing in a new system now so that you can start saving on your energy bills right away.
Please also see our Promotions and Rebates. There may be time-sensitive offers available.
how long will a new air conditioning system last?
While the life expectancy of a new air conditioning system can vary a good deal from one brand and model to another, most new systems being installed these days can be expected to last from 10 to 15 years. However, this will still depend on how much you use your system and how well you maintain it over the years. In fact, some air conditioners that receive proper maintenance can exceed their projected lifespan by several years. Book your maintenance now!
how does an air conditioner work?
At a high level, an air conditioner transfers heat from the inside of a house / building, where it is not wanted, to the outside. Refrigerant in the system absorbs the excess heat and is pumped through a closed system of piping to an outside coil. A fan blows outside air over the hot coil, transferring heat from the refrigerant to the outdoor air. Because the heat is removed from the indoor air, the indoor area is cooled.
Heat pumps — which use electricity and don't burn fossil fuels — are more efficient than traditional means of indoor climate control because they transfer warm and cold air rather than generate it. Learn more here.
Heat pumps — which use electricity and don't burn fossil fuels — are more efficient than traditional means of indoor climate control because they transfer warm and cold air rather than generate it. Learn more here.
what should i do to ensure my air conditioning system runs efficiently and to MINIMIZE potential breakdowns?
The main thing is to have the system checked each year before the peak-cooling season by a qualified service technician. Then, remember to keep the air filter clean and the outdoor unit free of leaves and debris. Book your spring AC maintenance here.
heating-related faqs
what size furnace do i need?
A trained Comfortwave HVAC specialist knows all the standards and can evaluate your home for not only the heating appliance, but also the quality of the heated air, and how well the air is distributed in the home. This home heating evaluation, includes taking into consideration any changes that may have been done sine the last furnace was installed. Book your free quote now!
how long do heating systems last?
The amount of time you can expect your heating system to last will depend on what type of system it is. In general, a new heating system you purchase today will last you on average 15 years. Keeping up with regular maintenance is one way to extend the life of your home heating system. Book your furnace maintenance here.
what is the best time to replace my furnace?
There are many factors involved in determining the best time to replace a furnace, such as its current operating efficiency, condition, make, model and the age of the furnace.
The only way to truly know the best time to replace your furnace is to have an HVAC inspection and energy analysis performed. Comfortwave offers this service as part of any appointment, and may help you decide when the time is right. A Comfortwave specialist will help guide you through all the options available including heat pumps. Learn more about heat pumps here. Please also check out our Current Promotions page and book an appointment with Comfortwave. |
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE BEST HEATING SYSTEM FOR MY HOUSE?
Some of the factors to consider are:
• Available fuel source
• Size and square footage of your home
• What type of system you are replacing
• What are the particular heating needs of your family
It can be helpful to get some professional advice and guidance so that you can get a better idea of what your options really are. A Comfortwave specialist can easily walk you through the selection process. Book your free quote now. Please also check out our Current Promotions page.
• Available fuel source
• Size and square footage of your home
• What type of system you are replacing
• What are the particular heating needs of your family
It can be helpful to get some professional advice and guidance so that you can get a better idea of what your options really are. A Comfortwave specialist can easily walk you through the selection process. Book your free quote now. Please also check out our Current Promotions page.
help me understand furnace ratings
Furnace efficiency ratings refer to the measurement of how efficiently a furnace converts fuel into heat. These ratings help homeowners understand the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of different furnace models. If you’re looking to purchase a new furnace, understanding these ratings is crucial in making an informed decision.
Other important factors to consider include:
• How long you plan to live in your house
• Special comfort needs
• Fuel availability
• Fuel cost
• Geographic area and climate
All these factors, plus your lifestyle and family needs, add up to show you which system is best for you.
Other important factors to consider include:
• How long you plan to live in your house
• Special comfort needs
• Fuel availability
• Fuel cost
• Geographic area and climate
All these factors, plus your lifestyle and family needs, add up to show you which system is best for you.
why should i choose a variable speed unit?
The term “variable-speed” refers to the furnace indoor air blower motor. The blower motor is the component that determines the amount of air the blower is required to deliver to your home. How does it work?
When your furnace is installed, the speed and airflow for your home is set (depending upon your specific situation, layout and size of your home.) Think of variable-speed technology as your insurance for home comfort the way you prefer it. The variable-speed technology ensures that your home receives the amount of air required to keep you and your family comfortable. Variable-speed motors have intelligent technology that monitor incoming data from the blower and adjust accordingly so you can feel confident that your system is working as it should.
Why Should I Buy a Unit with a Variable-Speed Motor?
Having the technology of variable-speed in your furnace offers many benefits: electrical Efficiency Variable-speed motors can actually save you money on your energy bill as they consume less electricity than standard motors.
Cooling efficiency
Having a variable-speed furnace as part of your home’s comfort system means you will gain air conditioning efficiency or SEER. The higher the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) the more energy efficient the unit, the more money you can save.
Air Quality
A variable-speed motor combined with a humidistat, allows you to control the humidity in your home. Humidity plays a big role not only in the comfort of your home but also in its air quality. The relative humidity in the average home should be between 30-60%. This range is most ideal to minimize the growth of biological pollutants such as mold and mildew. The consistent airflow of the variable-speed motor also helps to improve air filtration and even heat/cooling distribution.
When your furnace is installed, the speed and airflow for your home is set (depending upon your specific situation, layout and size of your home.) Think of variable-speed technology as your insurance for home comfort the way you prefer it. The variable-speed technology ensures that your home receives the amount of air required to keep you and your family comfortable. Variable-speed motors have intelligent technology that monitor incoming data from the blower and adjust accordingly so you can feel confident that your system is working as it should.
Why Should I Buy a Unit with a Variable-Speed Motor?
Having the technology of variable-speed in your furnace offers many benefits: electrical Efficiency Variable-speed motors can actually save you money on your energy bill as they consume less electricity than standard motors.
Cooling efficiency
Having a variable-speed furnace as part of your home’s comfort system means you will gain air conditioning efficiency or SEER. The higher the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) the more energy efficient the unit, the more money you can save.
Air Quality
A variable-speed motor combined with a humidistat, allows you to control the humidity in your home. Humidity plays a big role not only in the comfort of your home but also in its air quality. The relative humidity in the average home should be between 30-60%. This range is most ideal to minimize the growth of biological pollutants such as mold and mildew. The consistent airflow of the variable-speed motor also helps to improve air filtration and even heat/cooling distribution.
what are the advantages of two stage heating?
Traditional furnaces are designed to heat your home, and keep you warm during the coldest weather in your climate, therefore, they operate at one level — high. However, even during winter, temperatures fluctuate and many winter days can be somewhat mild.
Unlike traditional furnaces that turn on and run at full capacity with each demand for heating, two-stage furnaces operate like two separate furnaces to maintain more consistent comfort in your home. The unit starts out running in its first stage, and operates at about 68% of its heating capacity. This reduced capacity is sufficient to warm your home on mild winter days. But when the temperature outside really drops, the furnace adjusts to full capacity (second stage) to meet the demand for heat within the home. It’s kind of like having two furnaces for the price of one. With two-stage heating, you won’t have to keep adjusting the thermostat.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF TWO-STAGE HEATING?
Consistent Comfort: Thanks to two-stage technology, the temperature inside your home should vary only a few degrees versus the larger temperature swings that are common with traditional furnaces.
Quiet Comfort: Because a two-stage furnace starts in its first stage, when the level and amount of heat required is lower, and runs in this stage the majority of the time, it greatly reduces the noise associated with furnaces that turn on and run full blast. Two-stage technology means quiet comfort.
Improved Air Filtration: A two-stage furnace provides more consistent airflow and with more consistent airflow comes improved air filtration, which means you’ll breathe easier with two-stage heating.
Efficient Operation: Because the furnace operates mostly at lower capacity, first stage, it uses less fuel than a traditional furnace that runs at full capacity and then shuts off when heating demand is met.
DO I NEED A TWO STAGE?
Ask yourself these questions:
• How much time do you and your family spend inside your home?
• Did you take time and care to pick furniture, appliances, and other items that met your lifestyle and made you feel comfortable? Then why wouldn’t you do the same thing with your heating equipment?
Although you can’t see the air and temperature within your home you certainly can feel it. It affects you every day. A two-stage furnace can provide preferred comfort within your home despite the range of weather outside your home. If you want and expect high-level performance from your heating equipment then a two-stage furnace is the right choice for you! Book your free quote now!
Unlike traditional furnaces that turn on and run at full capacity with each demand for heating, two-stage furnaces operate like two separate furnaces to maintain more consistent comfort in your home. The unit starts out running in its first stage, and operates at about 68% of its heating capacity. This reduced capacity is sufficient to warm your home on mild winter days. But when the temperature outside really drops, the furnace adjusts to full capacity (second stage) to meet the demand for heat within the home. It’s kind of like having two furnaces for the price of one. With two-stage heating, you won’t have to keep adjusting the thermostat.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF TWO-STAGE HEATING?
Consistent Comfort: Thanks to two-stage technology, the temperature inside your home should vary only a few degrees versus the larger temperature swings that are common with traditional furnaces.
Quiet Comfort: Because a two-stage furnace starts in its first stage, when the level and amount of heat required is lower, and runs in this stage the majority of the time, it greatly reduces the noise associated with furnaces that turn on and run full blast. Two-stage technology means quiet comfort.
Improved Air Filtration: A two-stage furnace provides more consistent airflow and with more consistent airflow comes improved air filtration, which means you’ll breathe easier with two-stage heating.
Efficient Operation: Because the furnace operates mostly at lower capacity, first stage, it uses less fuel than a traditional furnace that runs at full capacity and then shuts off when heating demand is met.
DO I NEED A TWO STAGE?
Ask yourself these questions:
• How much time do you and your family spend inside your home?
• Did you take time and care to pick furniture, appliances, and other items that met your lifestyle and made you feel comfortable? Then why wouldn’t you do the same thing with your heating equipment?
Although you can’t see the air and temperature within your home you certainly can feel it. It affects you every day. A two-stage furnace can provide preferred comfort within your home despite the range of weather outside your home. If you want and expect high-level performance from your heating equipment then a two-stage furnace is the right choice for you! Book your free quote now!