Make a confident, informed decision on your next furnace. This guide breaks down sizing, efficiency, technology, costs, installation best practices, and the questions to ask your contractor—tailored for homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Quick Highlights
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Right-size first: Manual J load calculation > rule-of-thumb estimates
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Efficiency matters: Look for AFUE 95%+ for lower fuel bills
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Comfort tech: Two-stage or modulating burners + variable-speed blowers
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Quiet & clean air: Proper ductwork, filtration (MERV), and humidity control
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Smart controls: Ecobee and similar thermostats improve comfort and savings
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Total cost of ownership: Compare energy, maintenance, and warranty—not just the sticker price
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Pro install: Permits, commissioning, and safety checks protect performance and warranty
How to Choose (At a Glance)
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AFUE (Efficiency): Higher AFUE = less wasted fuel. In cold climates, 95%+ often makes financial sense.
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Burner Staging:
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Single-Stage: Most affordable; full output only.
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Two-Stage: Runs low most of the time; quieter, steadier temps.
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Modulating: Fine-tunes output for best comfort and efficiency.
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Blower Motor:
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PSC: Basic, lower cost.
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ECM/Variable-Speed: Quieter, better airflow/filtration, improved efficiency.
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Condensing vs. Non-Condensing:
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Condensing (High-Eff): Uses secondary heat exchanger for more heat from exhaust; needs PVC vent/condensate drain.
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Non-Condensing: Lower upfront cost; lower efficiency.
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Fuel & Venting: Natural gas, propane, or electric. Venting (direct/power vent, chimney liner) must meet code and manufacturer specs.
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Ductwork: Proper sizing, sealing, and returns are essential for comfort, noise, and equipment life.

Right sizing prevents short-cycling, noise, and uneven temperatures. We perform Manual J room-by-room calculations and verify static pressure and return/ supply balance. If needed, we recommend duct modifications (larger returns, sealing, transitions) to protect your new furnace and improve comfort.
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Smart Thermostats: Schedules, geofencing, and energy reports; remote access for easier management.
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Filtration: Choose MERV 8–13 based on allergies, pets, and indoor air quality goals; pair with variable-speed blowers for better capture.
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Humidity Control: Humidifiers (winter) and dehumidifiers (summer) protect finishes and improve comfort.
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Fresh Air & Ventilation: HRV/ERV systems exchange stale air with filtered outdoor air, reducing stuffiness and pollutants.
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Zoning: Multi-zone dampers/thermostats customize temperatures across floors or additions.
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Good: 95% AFUE, single-stage burner, ECM blower
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Best for: Smaller homes, tighter budgets, basic comfort upgrades
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Better: 96–97% AFUE, two-stage burner, variable-speed blower
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Best for: Most detached homes; improved comfort, quieter operation
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Best: 97–98.5% AFUE, modulating burner, variable-speed blower + smart thermostat
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Best for: Top comfort, lowest fuel use, consistent temps, quietest operation
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(Model availability and features vary; we present multiple options during your quote.)
Consider purchase + installation + energy + maintenance over 10–15 years. A higher-efficiency, variable-speed furnace can often pay back via lower gas use and improved comfort—especially with rebates and smart controls. Add a maintenance plan to extend life and preserve efficiency.
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Protection & Removal: Floor/area protection; clean removal of old equipment.
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Code-Compliant Setup: Gas/electric, venting/condensate, drain pan, and clearances.
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Duct Transitions & Sealing: Proper fits and sealed joints for airflow and quiet operation.
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Commissioning: Combustion analysis, gas pressure, temperature rise, and static pressure checks.
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Walkthrough & Training: Filter access, thermostat setup, and maintenance schedule.
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Registration & Warranty: We register your equipment and provide documentation.
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Age: 12–15+ years with repeated failures
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Major Repairs: Heat exchanger cracks, control board failures + poor efficiency
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Comfort Issues: Hot/cold spots, rising bills, frequent short-cycling
We’ll provide a repair vs. replace comparison showing lifetime costs and available incentives.
High-efficiency furnaces may qualify for manufacturer, utility, or government incentives. We confirm eligibility, handle paperwork, and can pair incentives with financing or rental options.
See: Furnace Rebates & Incentives
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Will you perform a Manual J load calculation and verify static pressure?
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What AFUE, staging, and blower options fit my home?
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What duct changes (returns, sealing) are needed for comfort and noise?
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How will you commission the furnace (combustion analysis, temp rise, gas pressure)?
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What are the warranty terms (parts, heat exchanger, labor) and who handles registration?
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Which rebates/incentives apply, and who files the paperwork?
Proudly serving the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and surrounding communities. Contact us to confirm availability in your neighborhood.
- Get a Furnace
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Furnace Buyer’s Guide
What size furnace do I need?
We never guess. We run Manual J heat-loss calculations and verify duct capacity to match BTUs to your home.
Is a modulating furnace worth it?
If you value steady temperatures, quiet operation, and lower fuel use, modulating + variable-speed is often the best comfort upgrade.
Do I need new ducts?
Not always. Many systems benefit from added return air, sealing, or minor transitions to meet airflow and noise targets.
Gas vs. electric vs. propane?
We’ll compare fuel availability, local rates, and venting to recommend the most economical choice for your home.
What maintenance is required?
Annual tune-ups, filter changes, and verifying temperature rise/static pressure help preserve efficiency and warranty coverage.
Can I use my existing thermostat?
Usually yes, but smart thermostats unlock better scheduling, insights, and savings—especially with two-stage/modulating furnaces.
Keep it running like new
Add our Furnace Protection Plan for annual tune-ups, priority service, repair discounts, and safety/CO checks. Preventive maintenance extends lifespan and preserves efficiency.
Ready for quieter, more efficient heat? Book your free in-home quote today.
- Phone: (905) 895-7787
- Email Us: Send Email
- Service Area: Greater Toronto Area
At Coffee Heating and Air Conditioning, we proudly offer a full spectrum of residential and commercial HVAC services across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. From expert installation of high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and water heaters to precision repairs, emergency service calls, and routine system maintenance, our certified technicians ensure year-round comfort and safety for every client. We also specialize in air quality improvements, duct cleaning, smart thermostat integration, and energy-saving upgrades tailored to your home or business. Whether you’re building new, upgrading, or need fast repairs, our team delivers responsive, reliable solutions backed by industry expertise and a commitment to excellence.