Buyer’s Guide for Electric Furnaces (Cost, Quality)
When it comes to choosing an electric furnace, several factors must be taken into account. This buyer’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from build quality to ongoing maintenance.
Call in the experts on the North Shore
What Is an Electric Furnace?
An electric furnace is a central heating system that uses electricity to generate heat. The warm air is pushed through your home’s ductwork, allowing heat to be distributed evenly throughout every room. The thermostat regulates the process according to your heating needs.
Unlike gas or oil heating systems, electric furnaces do not require fossil fuels, making them a cleaner, more environmentally friendly choice.
This type of system can also be paired with a central heat pump — an excellent combination for efficient and cost-effective winter heating.
3 Types of Electric Furnaces on the Market
– Fixed-speed furnace: The blower speed and heating elements are set during installation, based on your home’s characteristics.
– Furnace with variable heating elements: The blower operates at a fixed speed, while heating elements adjust through built-in temperature sensors. This option is more energy-efficient than fixed-speed models.
– Variable-speed furnace: Both blower speed and heating elements adjust according to demand, helping you save substantially on energy bills. These models are equipped with higher-quality motors and operate more quietly.
Build Quality
Build quality plays a crucial role in the durability and reliability of your electric furnace. It is always recommended to choose a well-established and reputable brand.
Stelpro, York, and Supreme are among the trusted manufacturers that have proven themselves in Quebec and across Canada.
Power and Capacity
Several factors determine the required furnace capacity to heat your home properly:
- Home size and square footage
- Room layout
- Level of insulation
- Local climate
Oversizing risks: too much capacity can cause excessive energy consumption and higher utility bills.
Undersizing risks: insufficient power may cause temperature fluctuations, discomfort, and premature wear due to continuous operation.
In short, the power of an electric furnace is a key factor when making your purchase. An HVAC expert will help you determine the exact capacity your home requires.
Electric Furnace Cost
On average, the electric furnace cost ranges between $4,000 and $5,000 (including installation).
For your purchase, it’s best to rely on companies with many years of experience. This guarantees that the installation meets all codes and that you’ll benefit from dependable after-sales service.
Warranty
Warranty coverage varies from one manufacturer to another, but generally lasts between 5 and 10 years on major components.
It’s also essential to make sure that after-sales service is reliable and accessible for your chosen brand. With proper maintenance, an electric furnace can last up to 20 years.
Maintenance of an Electric Furnace
Air Filters
Furnace filters serve two purposes: they ensure your system runs efficiently and they help maintain healthy indoor air quality.
– The MERV rating (1 to 16) indicates filtration quality. The higher the number, the finer the filtration. For residential use, a MERV 8 filter usually provides the best balance between performance and cost.
– Filters can be disposable or washable. Disposable filters must be replaced at the end of their lifespan. Washable ones can be vacuumed and rinsed, but must be completely dry before reinstallation.
Always turn off the furnace and cut power before replacing or cleaning filters. If you’re unsure of the filter location or how to replace it, call a professional.
Other Components to Inspect
When replacing filters, pay attention to visible signs of wear and inspect all surfaces and electrical components.
Contact a licensed technician if you notice:
- Abnormal dirt or dust buildup
- Damaged or broken parts
- Leaks or blocked ductwork
- Moisture inside or outside the unit
Do not operate the furnace under these conditions. A professional inspection is required.
Blower
The blower assembly (fan wheels and motors) should be inspected and serviced at least once per year.
Motor Lubrication
Newer furnace motors do not require lubrication. However, older models may still need annual greasing.
RBQ-Certified Work
When purchasing an electric furnace, make sure the contractor performing the work holds all required licenses:
- Refrigeration 15.10
- Warm air heating 15.1
- Ventilation 15.8
- CMEQ – Electrical work license (16)
- Liability insurance to cover potential damages caused by installation
At Les Entreprises MPH, we strictly follow the regulations of the Régie du Bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). We are specialists in the installation, maintenance, cleaning, and repair of electric furnaces on the North Shore.
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