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FAQ Category: Heating

Have questions on general Heating questions? Find answers to some of the most common questions on heating in our FAQ section.

The difference between a boiler and a hot water tank has to do with the way in which each uses the hot water that it produces.

Both boilers and hot water tanks take cool water, heat this water and then distribute it throughout a home via pipes. However, the water that is heated by a boiler is distributed throughout the home via pipes, radiators and radiant in-floor systems in order to heat it – to keep the rooms, floors, garage, etc. comfortable and warm.

On the other hand, a hot water tank heats water that is used for cooking and cleaning purposes – for showers, dishwashing, laundry, etc.

There are several steps involved in installing your new furnace. These steps will vary depending on the furnace you choose, your home’s existing furnace system, and any changes you want.

  1. Align the new furnace with existing gas lines and ductwork
  2. Connect and seal to the ducting system
  3. Connect intake and exhaust pipes
  4. Connect the gas line
  5. Connect the furnace to the electrical supply and thermostat
  6. Connect the furnace to a drain hole

At this point, it’s important to check your work, make sure everything is connected properly and there are no gas leaks. 

Please note: these steps are extremely simplified and meant to provide an overview to understand the professional furnace installation process better. It is highly recommended that you have your furnace professionally installed in order to avoid dangerous problems and issues with your new furnace. Having to get furnace repairs on your new unit would not be covered under warranty without professional installation.

Hiring a professional will be more costly initially but will save you money in the long run.

Here’s how long it takes to install a new furnace.

Boiler heat is not expensive on a day-to-day basis. In fact, you may save in energy costs when heating your house with a boiler compared to a furnace.

However, installing a boiler is typically more complex and therefore more expensive than installing a furnace. On average, a boiler will cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 to purchase and install (depending on the brand and the system’s energy efficiency rating). Plus, your home will need extensive modifications to make a boiler system work – radiant heating must be implemented.

On the other hand, the average cost to buy and install a furnace in Edmonton is only $5,500 to $10,000+. With boiler heat, you will save in the long run but will have to pay more upfront.

Furnace on the fritz? Here are a few things to check if your furnace isn’t working:

  • Power switch – is the power on? If so, try turning the furnace off and then on again.
  • Furnace filter – check to see if the filter is clogged. If it is, exchange it for a new one. You should be changing your furnace filter ever 3 months.
  • Batteries in the thermostat – check the batteries in your thermostat and replace them if they’re low.
  • Flame sensor – turn off the power to your furnace (this is an important first step) then remove the sensor and clean it.
  • Pilot light – check to make sure the pilot light is on. If it’s out, relight it using your furnace model’s igniting instructions.
  • Air intake and exhaust pipes – check the exhaust flue for blockages and clear any blockage you find. For example, during the winter in Alberta, you might find icicles covering the screen of the flue. Remove these to solve the problem.

If one of these is not the issue, you may need a professional to help you uncover and solve the problem. Don’t wait until it’s too late – a broken furnace, especially during an Edmonton winter, can result in broken and burst water pipes! Find a local furnace repair contractor to fix the problem as soon as possible.

It can cost anywhere from $150 to $1,500 to repair a furnace, depending on the issue. If you’re in the Edmonton area, the average cost to repair a furnace will be around $700.

Make sure the furnace company you choose to do your repairs is upfront with their pricing. They should be able to provide you with the price ahead of time so that you know exactly what to expect before moving ahead!

Want to save some money? Often professional heating and plumbing companies will offer a Service Partner Plan – we call ours the ProComfort Plan. This type of plan will help you keep on top of the regular maintenance your furnace needs for a fraction of the price. Regular furnace tune-ups and maintenance will help prevent any major issues, saving you from repairs and replacements that could cost you thousands of dollars! With plans like this, there is often a discount for members, meaning you’ll save money with every visit.

There are several heating systems to choose from, including:

  • Gas Furnaces: These are efficient and widely used for their affordability and heating capabilities.
  • Electric Furnaces: These are suitable for areas with milder winters but tend to be less energy-efficient.
  • Heat Pumps: They can both heat and cool your home, providing year-round comfort.
  • Hybrid Systems: Combining a heat pump and a gas furnace for maximum efficiency in different weather conditions.
  • Ductless Mini-Splits: Ideal for heating individual rooms or spaces without a central duct system.

Can’t decide if a furnace service plan is worth it? Beyond saving you time, money, and the headache of an unexpected furnace breakdown in the dead of winter, here are some of the benefits of a service plan:

  • Identification of potential breakdowns before they occur
  • Piece of mind and the ensured safety and comfort for you and your family
  • Lower utility bills as a result of regular maintenance
  • No premium fees for emergency service
  • Automatically scheduled service – so you don’t have to worry about calling to book an appointment!
  • Priority service
  • Discounts on furnace services provided
  • Professional services from trusted experts
  • Satisfaction guarantee

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