Should I get an Armstrong Air Furnace?

 

Furnace installation in Ottawa or even an upgrade, is a big investment decision for any homeowner. From the size, power and installation costs to the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings, maintenance expenses, and warranties, you may consider a range of aspects while comparing different furnace brands. 

One such trusted and reliable brand that promises efficient heating, low energy bills, and reliable performance is Armstrong Air®. Read on to understand whether an Armstrong Air furnace may be the right fit for your home.  

Key Features of Armstrong Air® Furnaces.

Available in an extensive array of models, Armstrong Air® furnaces come with variable speed or constant torque blower, as well as single or multi-stage performance models. With AFUE ratings between 80% and 95%, many of their models are ENERGY STAR® certified.

·        EHXTM Heat Exchanger Technology

·        Quiet CombustionTM Technology

·         Advanced Heat Exchanger

Whether you are looking to buy or rent the furnace, at The Energy Centre we provide installation, maintenance, and furnace repairs in Ottawa for an extensive range of heating systems.

Originally Posted on The Energy Centre

Should I Get An Aire-Flo Furnace? Key Features and Benefits

 Are They the Right Furnace for Your Ottawa Home?

Looking to replace or upgrade the furnace in your Ottawa home? Are you currently evaluating a few different brands to compare and choose the one that best meets your requirements and budget? As one of the most time-tested names in durable and reliable gas furnaces, Aire-Flo® furnaces are highly likely to make it to your shortlist. However, before investing in a new system, it is important to look at some key aspects, such as furnace installation costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings, warranties, and overall performance.

Read on to learn whether an Aire-Flo® gas furnace may be the right fit for your home.

Aire-Flo® furnaces: A Snapshot of the Features and Benefits

Offering a wide selection of heating and cooling products, Aire-Flo® is a trusted name in HVAC systems. With over 50 years of experience, expect nothing less than top-notch equipment quality, low maintenance costs, and long lifespan. Some of the other key features include:

• Compact models with a small footprint that make them highly suitable and flexible for smaller homes.
• Affordable price range that makes them one of the most competitively priced, budget-friendly options in the market
• Wide choice of ENERGY STAR® qualified furnaces. The 95AF2V and 95AF1 offer a 95% AFUE rating and 44,000 to 110,000 British Thermal Unit per Hour (BTUH), while the 92AF1 features a 92.1% AFUE rating and 44,000 to 130,000 BTUH.

At The Energy Centre, we offer a range of Aire-Flo® furnaces for rent, as well as sale. Besides supplying and installing various globally reputed HVAC systems, we also provide furnace maintenance and repairs and emergency after-hours support.

 

Check out the complete range of furnaces from Aire-Flo® at our HVAC store in Ottawa or call us for a free in-home estimate. Our qualified and experienced technicians will be happy to assist you in choosing a model that best fits your space.

Originally Posted on The Energy Centre website

Which Furnance Suits My Needs Best?

 

A Comparison of Top Furnace Brands by Your HVAC Experts in Ottawa

Deciding on a new furnace installation in Ottawa is a critical decision for any homeowner. Once you finalize an option and go through with the installation, you are unlikely to replace this equipment for the next 12 to 15 years. It is important to invest in a brand that delivers value on your key priorities. The home’s layout and area, your family’s comfort and heating needs, and your budget, will be the primary drivers of this decision. In addition, you may also have to consider the cost of installation, ongoing Ottawa furnace repair expenses, Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings, and warranties that come with each furnace brand.

The HVAC experts at The Energy Centre in Ottawa compare the top furnace brands for residential use to help you choose the one that best meets your needs.

A Roundup of the Best Furnace Brands in the Canadian Market

Besides keeping your home warm and toasty through the harsh, cold Ottawa winters, a good furnace should help you save on your energy bills and maintenance expenses by being reliable, consistent and efficient. Learning the nuances and benefits of the furnace brands available on the market today will help you make the right choice.

• Armstrong Air^® Furnace: Available in variable speed or constant torque blower, single or multi-stage performance models, and AFUE ratings between 80% and 95%, Armstrong Air^® furnaces are affordable, reliable and efficient. Their large selection of models (many of them ENERGY STAR^® certified), along with innovative features, such as EHX heat exchanger technology and Quiet Combustion technology ensure comfort, durability and a match for every home.
• Aire-Flo^® Furnace: A versatile brand with a wide selection of ENERGY STAR® certified heating products, Aire-Flo® gas furnaces are one of the most affordable options available on the market. Their compact 92AF1 model provides greater flexibility in limited spaces, making it an ideal fit for smaller homes.
• Ducane^TM Furnace: With AFUE ratings of 92% to 95% Ducane^TM furnaces offer a range of efficient, yet cost-effective heating systems that are suitable for colder climates. While their smaller opening requirement makes them an easier option for retrofitting, the minimal duct usage promises lower energy consumption and reduced energy loss.
• Goodman^® Furnace: Renowned for their solid build, quality, reliability, and great warranty programs, Goodman ® furnaces offer affordable heating options for Canadian homeowners. Their products range from 92% to 98% AFUE and offer smart home compatibility, as well as excellent value for money.
• Keep Rite^® Furnace: Offering top-of-the-line, high-efficiency (up to 98% AFUE rating) heating equipment with ultra-quiet performance, Keep Rite ® furnaces are known to provide lasting comfort for years to come. Their wide range of energy efficient models, backed with attractive warranties make them a trustworthy brand for Canadian homes.

Whether you are looking to upgrade an old heating unit, or adding heat to a new home, the HVAC experts at The Energy Centre can guide you on the various options available on the market and help you make a smart and cost-efficient decision. We supply and install an extensive range of leading furnaces in Ottawa from renowned global brands, and also offer installation, maintenance, and emergency after-hour repairs.

Originally Posted on: https://energycentre.ca/which-furnace-suits-my-needs-best/

5 Tips for Reducing Your AC Bills During the Summer

Fortunately, staying cool in the summer does not have to come with steep AC bills. There are a few simple tricks and hacks which a savvy homeowner can employ to stay out of the heat without feeling the burn in your bank account.

Here are some helpful tips for you to follow:

1. Check your windows: Particularly in older homes, or ones that get a lot of direct sunlight, windows are probably one of the main factors leading to steep AC bills. However, if you are not willing to undertake an expensive upgrade, there are some easier solutions you can use to minimize costs. By resealing your windows where necessary and installing blackout blinds on windows that get a lot of direct sunlight, you can greatly cut down the loss of cool air in your home.
2. Install a programmable thermostat: So much money is wasted every year cooling homes that are empty for several hours a day. By installing a programmable thermostat, you can take control of when your AC unit is cooling your house, ensuring it is only used when needed and shuts off when the desired temperature is reached.
3. Use fans when possible: Plug-in and ceiling fans are a great solution when you only need cooling in a single room or for a short amount of time. They consume relatively little power and do not waste money cooling rooms you are not spending time in.
4. Replace HVAC filters: A lot of people neglect their HVAC filters, letting layer upon layer of particulates build up. This can greatly reduce the performance of an HVAC unit while putting extra strain on the system. This not only consumes more power but also can reduce the lifespan of an HVAC unit in the long run.
5. Get your AC system serviced: By far the best way to keep you AC bills down is to have your HVAC unit regularly serviced by a trained professional. They will be able to identify any issues with a unit which might be causing it to run inefficiently, increasing power consumption.

Read more: https://energycentre.ca/ways-to-lower-your-ac-costs-in-ottawa-this-summer/

Should I Get An Air Conditioner This Year?

If your AC is over 10 to 15 years old and shows the below signs, it may leave you sweating on a hot summer day!

• Inadequate air flow or absence of cold air
• Uneven cooling in different zones that does not resolve with a thermostat replacement
• Excessive leakage or moisture around the AC unit, which is damaging flooring or furniture
• Loud sounds coming from the AC – banging, rattling, grinding, or other unusual sounds
• Need for frequent repairs or component replacement to keep the machine up and running

Read more: https://energycentre.ca/should-i-get-an-air-conditioner-this-year/

How Do I Know If My Air Conditioner Will Last Another Year?

If your home’s cooling is currently dependent on an old and tired air conditioning unit, it may be time for you to decide between AC maintenance and AC replacement for the current year. With routine servicing and timely repairs, most ACs will last up to 10 to 15 years. However, if your AC is already nearing the end of its lifespan, it could potentially break down in the middle of a hot summer. The last-minute hassle of replacing an old AC means:

• Insufficient time to research different brands, evaluate your options, and organize your finances
• Sultry spaces that leave you and your loved ones sweating and uncomfortable
• Higher costs as you may not be able to take advantage of seasonal deals and discounts

The Energy Centre’s AC Experts suggest that homeowners should watch for certain key signs to identify an old and failing AC that may not last you through the season.

• Is the air flow and cooling uniform across all the rooms in your home?
• Is there any excessive leakage or moisture around your AC unit, which is leading to secondary issues, such as moisture, and mold?
• Does your AC make any loud or unusual sounds, such as whistling, banging, rattling, or grinding?
• Does your AC need frequent component repairs or replacement to keep it running through the season?
• Are your energy bills showing an unusual spike in recent months?

Read more: https://energycentre.ca/how-do-i-know-if-my-air-conditioner-will-last-another-year/

The Top 10 Best Furnace Brands and Models in Canada

A good furnace will offer you stable and efficient warmth during the winter months, while providing you with reliable service for 15-20 years when professionally maintained. That’s why it’s so important to take your time to consider your options so you can select the right heating system for your home. Here is our list of the top 10 best high-efficiency and cost-effective furnaces in Canada:

Best Value

1. York LX TM9V – 96% AFUE
2. Goodman GMVC96 – 96% AFUE
3. KeepRite ProComfort G9MX –5% AFUE

Middle-Range

1. Bryant Preferred Series 926TA –5% AFUE
2. American Standard Gold S9V2-VS – 97% AFUE
3. Amana ACVM97 – 97% AFUE
4. Coleman LX TM9V – 96% AFUE

High-End

1. Trane S9V2 – 96% AFUE
2. Carrier Performance Series 59TP6A –5% AFUE
3. Lennox Signature Collection SLP98V – 96% AFUE

Read more:https://energycentre.ca/what-are-the-top-10-best-furnaces-in-canada/

HOW TO KNOW WHEN YOUR AC UNIT NEEDS REPLACING

An efficient AC unit is an important feature to have in your home. If you can’t quite reach a comfortable temperature when you’re indoors or notice that your energy bills have sky-rocketed, it may be time to re-evaluate your air conditioner and consider investing in a new, more energy-efficient model. When your air conditioner stops working as effectively as it did in previous years, switching to a high-efficiency system can drastically reduce your energy consumption and in turn, help you save money.

 

5 Signs it’s Time to Upgrade Your AC Unit

 

HVAC systems, like other machines, won’t last forever, but they do provide comfort in your home for several years. In fact, your cooling systems works incredibly hard to help keep you and your family cool and comfortable, so it should come as no surprise that it will need replacing eventually. Before the summer season kicks into high gear, it’s a good idea to figure out whether it’s time to upgrade your AC unit so you can avoid any nasty surprises during the upcoming months when you need it the most.

 

Here are some of warning signs you can look out for:

 

• The most obvious sign—your current AC unit is old: Generally, air conditioners can last 15-20 years with regular care and preventative maintenance. However, as it ages, your system may start to consume more energy and become less effective at cooling – even if it’s technically still functional. Thanks to advancements in modern HVAC technology, the systems that are on the market today are much more efficient and reliable.
• Your bills are going up: Older air conditioners are prone to breakdowns, leading to costly maintenance fees. They also consume more energy, meaning your monthly energy bills will reflect this. In order to avoid these rising costs, consider replacing your existing system before it starts costing you more in repairs and monthly energy expenses.
• Your air conditioner is noisy: It’s normal for HVAC systems to emit a certain level of noise but if you begin to notice that your air conditioner becomes especially noisy once it starts running, this may indicate an issue with an internal component. Abnormal noises you should pay attention to are rattling, squeaking or banging sounds.
• The temperature in your home is inconsistent: If you feel too hot or cold in certain areas of your home, it could indicate that your AC unit is not doing its job properly. In some cases, your system may just be in need of a simple repair but in other cases, it may be time to consider a replacement. Experiencing inconsistent temperatures in the home could also mean that your HVAC system is improperly sized or is too old and can’t produce an adequate distribution of cool air.
• Your System Needs Frequent Repairs: If it feels like your AC unit has undergone frequent repairs, it’s a good sign that it may be time to get rid of the system entirely and start fresh. Constant repairs within a short period of time may indicate that your system is wearing out and will likely stop working in the immediate future.

If you see warning signs that your AC unit is nearing end of life, it’s time to get in touch with the HVAC professionals from The Energy Centre. While the cost of a new cooling system may feel a little daunting at first, you will end up saving more money on your monthly energy bills by making the investment to upgrade your air conditioner. Our service technicians can accurately identify any issues with your unit and help you decide if a repair or replacement is necessary based on the condition of your system. As always, we are committed to providing residents and businesses in Ottawa and the surrounding area with high-quality HVAC products and unrivaled customer service that won’t be beat.

For More Information: https://energycentre.ca/how-to-know-when-your-ac-unit-needs-replacing/

4 Signs it's Time for You to Upgrade Your Home Heating Unit

HOW TO TELL WHEN IT’S TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR HEATING UNIT

While you may not give it a second thought when it’s working properly, your heating unit is an important part of your home. You depend on it to keep you and your loved ones safe and comfortable when the temperatures drop, making it an extremely valuable piece of equipment. However, when it isn’t functioning as well as it should, or you start to notice that your monthly energy bills are skyrocketing, it may be time for you to consider an upgrade. If you think you need a new heating unit and want to find a more efficient system, get in touch with the HVAC experts at The Energy Centre. In addition to the latest products, we have the required knowledge and experience to help you choose the right system for your home that’ll provide you with reliable service for years to come.

 

4 Signs it’s Time to Upgrade Your Home Heating Unit

 

If you think that you’ll be saving money by making quick fixes to your heating unit every now and then instead of investing in a new system, you may want to reconsider. These little expenses can quickly add up and end up costing you more than you realize. Here are a few signs to help you determine when it’s time to upgrade to a new heating unit:

 

• Your Heating Unit is Old: When it comes to HVAC systems, age is not just a number. On average, a heating unit should be replaced every 10-15 years depending on the type of system you have. The older your system gets, the more problems you are likely to encounter. Upgrading the efficiency of your system will help you save more money in the long run.
• Soaring Energy Bills: If you notice that your energy bills are rising for no apparent reason, your heating unit may be to blame. That’s because an older and less efficient system uses up more energy to perform the same job. New systems are much more efficient and can help reduce the amount you pay towards your energy bills every month.
• Increase in Loud Noises: If there are strange creaks and squeaks coming from your heating unit, you can assume that this is not a good sign. Loud noises may indicate that your system either needs a repair or must be replaced. An HVAC professional can help you determine which solution is right for you.
• Requires Continuous Maintenance: If your heating unit requires more attention than usual to reach a desired and consistent temperature throughout the home, it’s a good sign that it’s time to replace the entire system.

Whether you have determined that you need a new heating unit, or you are interested in more information about what an upgrade could offer you, the next step is to reach out to an HVAC professional at The Energy Centre. We offer a wide range of HVAC services including routine maintenance and cleaning, to system installation and more. After all, our goal is to help you maintain a safe and comfortable environment with high-quality and affordable heating and cooling services. As the weather gets warmer, now is the perfect time to assess the status of your existing heating equipment and make any upgrades as necessary so you are prepared for next winter.

Contact the team at The Energy Centre to learn more about our heating products and services. You can schedule an appointment by calling 613-746-7000 or contact us online for more information.

Original Source:- https://energycentre.ca/how-to-tell-when-its-time-to-upgrade-your-heating-unit/

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The Ultimate Spring Tune-Up Checklist for Your HVAC System

 

It’s finally time to shake off winter and get ready for the warm weather season! There is nothing better than cracking open those windows, enjoying the fresh air and doing some heavy-duty cleaning around the home in the spring. While you may not have to rely on your HVAC system right away, now is the perfect opportunity to let it rest, inspect it and perform any maintenance tasks as necessary with help from the professionals at The Energy Centre. Doing so will ensure that your air conditioning performs as it should throughout the summer so you can enjoy the season with comfortable indoor temperatures.

 

How to Get Your HVAC System Ready for the Summer Season

 

If you want your HVAC system to run at peak performance and make sure that you pay as little as possible on your energy bills each month, it’s important to perform regular inspections and tune-ups on your equipment. If you’re wondering where to begin, follow our spring maintenance checklist for your HVAC system below:

 

·         Change the Air Filters: Over time, dust, dirt and other debris can build up on the filters in your HVAC system and result in poor air circulation. These filters should be inspected every month and cleaned or replaced every 30-90 days to maintain a reliable level of performance as well as optimal indoor air quality.

·         Clean Your Outdoor Unit: The transition between winter to spring can leave behind a lot of build-up and debris on and around your outdoor HVAC unit. After turning off the power source, remove any natural fragments around the unit to allow for a 24-inch clearance at a minimum, which promotes proper air flow. Once cleared, gently rinse off the unit with your garden hose and inspect for any damage. If you suspect there is damage, contact an HVAC professional at The Energy Centre.

·         Clean Your Ducts: Just like the air filters in your HVAC system, ducts are also notorious for attracting dirt, debris and other harmful contaminants. A professional can help you with duct cleaning and prevent you from breathing in any contaminants that are trapped in your ductwork. During duct cleaning, technicians can also notify you if they notice any other problems which you may not have been able to identify on your own.

·         Update Your Thermostat: If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, it’s time to invest in one. Programming your thermostat will help maintain a more comfortable temperature throughout the day and enable you to save money by automating your heating and cooling needs.

·         Schedule a Professional Tune-Up: The last thing you want when the warm temperatures hit is to turn on your AC unit – only to realize it’s not working. Scheduling a professional inspection service will ensure your system is in full working order so you don’t encounter any surprises later on. In fact, routine HVAC maintenance in the spring and fall can reduce unexpected breakdowns, lower energy bills, validate manufacturer warranties and help maximize your system’s overall performance all year round.

 

Proper HVAC maintenance is essential in order to prolong the life of your system, keep your energy bills low and ensure your safety and comfort at home. A spring HVAC inspection is a great way to make sure your system continues to run efficiently throughout the summer months when you need it most. At The Energy Centre, we have been taking care of our customers for nearly 25 years, providing professional air conditioning maintenance and repair, and other HVAC services for homeowners in Ottawa and the surrounding area. Our high-quality, affordable services include planned service, service and repairs, cleaning and maintenance and 24/7 emergency services. Make sure you’re ready for the summer season and reach out to our team to schedule your HVAC system tune-up today.

 

Contact the team at The Energy Centre for your spring HVAC system inspection. You can schedule an appointment by calling 613-746-7000 or contact us online for more information about our products and services.

 

Original Source: https://energycentre.ca/your-ultimate-hvac-system-checklist-for-spring/

What makes furnaces energy efficient?

 Today, the furnaces that are available are so much more efficient than they were in the past. This is mainly due to the fact that these systems are simply designed better, thanks to the recent advancements in technology and innovative solutions that have emerged from the HVAC industry. Now, it is possible to heat your home and remain comfortable, without using an excessive amount of fuel to do so. Make sure you’re ready for winter with an energy efficient furnace from The Energy Centre.

 

How Energy Efficient Furnaces Reduce Fuel Waste

 

If it’s time to replace your existing furnace with an energy efficient system, take a look at some of the models that are currently available. Older furnace models typically have an efficiency rating of 85% or below, whereas high-efficiency models operate at 90-95% efficiency. That means, these furnaces only allow 10-5% of the fuel they consume to go to waste. This margin is extremely crucial to note, as it means the amount you spend on your energy bills during the winter will be significantly reduced.

 

Here are a few key factors that make furnaces energy efficient:

 

• Sealed Combustion Furnace: The furnace’s combustion chamber is not open to the air of the house. Rather, the furnace draws only the air it needs and forces it through a pipe that leads outside of the home. A sealed chamber means less heat escapes as the burners work.
• Multi-Stage Burners: The burners in a standard furnace are either on or off. If they are on, they continuously run at the same power level. Therefore, multi-stage burners adjust according to how much power it consumes so that it can operate at reduced energy levels whenever possible.
• Variable Speed Blowers: This fan sends heat from the furnace to the ventilation ducts. Like burners, the fan can only operate at one speed, ultimately using more energy in some cases than is required. On the other hand, a variable speed blower can adjust how the fan operates and consume less energy.

Find a Heating System That’s Right for You at The Energy Centre

 

Are you shopping for a new energy efficient furnace? We understand that having to choose between the options that are available can be overwhelming. That’s where we can help. If you have questions about energy efficient furnaces, or you need an expert to install a heating system in your home, contact our furnace specialists at The Energy Centre. We provide high-quality and affordable products and services for homeowners in Ottawa and the surrounding area. We recognize that every home is different and that’s why we work closely with every customer to find the right furnace that meets your specific heating needs.

Original Source: https://energycentre.ca/what-makes-furnaces-energy-efficient/