For years, furnaces have kept Canadian homes warm through the harsh winters. However, many homeowners still have questions about how they work and what the best practices are. This confusion often leads to myths and misconceptions that can cause more harm than good.
Following the wrong advice can result in costly repairs, higher bills, and less effective heating. To help you avoid these pitfalls, let’s uncover and debunk 5 common furnace myths that simply aren’t true:
Myth #1: Closing vents completely in unused rooms saves energy.
FALSE: While partially closing certain vents to balance airflow can be effective, completely shutting them off in a room can force your furnace to work harder. Furnaces are designed to distribute heat evenly, so closing these vents can disrupt airflow, increase pressure in the ductwork, and can lead to leaks, heat exchanger damage, and reduced efficiency. This not only increases energy bills but can also shorten the lifespan of your system.
Myth #2: Cold feet indoors in fall and winter are normal.
FALSE: Many people assume cold feet are just part of the season, but they actually signal poor insulation in your home. When hot air escapes through gaps in the floors, windows, or walls, it creates energy inefficiencies and reduces comfort. To improve heat retention, check the seals around doors and windows. Additionally, have a professional assess your home’s insulation.
Myth #3: Efficiency should be your top priority when buying a furnace.
FALSE: While energy efficiency is important, focusing solely on it isn’t enough. Today’s furnaces are much more efficient, with high-efficiency models reaching up to 98.5% AFUE. However, a furnace’s performance is also dependent on how well your home is optimized for heating.
Proper insulation, sealed doors and windows, and well-maintained ductwork are equally crucial. A large portion of heat is lost through leaks in ducts, so having an HVAC professional inspect and seal your ductwork can make a big difference.
Myth #4: Keep your old furnace running as long as possible.
FALSE: Many homeowners delay replacing an old furnace, constantly repairing it instead. While repairs are necessary, an aging furnace (over 15-20 years) becomes less efficient, leading to higher utility bills and decreased comfort. Replacing your furnace with a more energy-efficient model saves money in the long run by reducing energy consumption and the need for constant repairs.
Myth #5: Your furnace doesn’t need regular maintenance.
FALSE: Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your furnace running efficiently. A yearly inspection, along with changing air filters regularly, helps catch small issues before they become costly problems. Neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, energy inefficiency, and a shorter lifespan for your system. Keep your furnace in top shape with professional maintenance.
For furnace repair, maintenance, and installation, Team Harding is here to assist with all your furnace needs.
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Team Harding has been Ottawa’s leading home comfort specialist since 1994. We are a family-owned and operated local business and all of our installers and technicians are fully licensed.
