Furnaces

We asked Canadians who requested a quote through FurnacePrices.ca how much they paid for their new furnace in 2022 and so far in 2023.

The consensus? The average cost of a new natural gas furnace in Canada is between $4,000 and $6,500, including installation.

Of course you could end up paying more or less than that, as each home and situation is different.

Actual furnace prices in Canada will depend on factors like:

• the size of your home
• the furnace brand and model you choose
• the efficiency rating, among other factors
• where you live, as prices tend to vary quite a bit by region

This guide will give you a complete breakdown of high-efficiency natural gas furnace prices in Canada. We’ll talk about actual furnace costs, what you’ll pay to replace an older system, furnace installation costs, and more. 

See our Best Furnaces compared here >>

and our Complete Furnace Buying Guide here >>

Interested in buying a new air conditioner? Check out Central Air Conditioner Prices in Canada

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Factors Impacting Furnace Prices in Canada

The prices we talk about in this article are just a general estimate. Every home and installation is different. Like any home improvement project, various factors can impact the final price. 

Local furnace companies that are licensed and experienced can help you understand the following factors that affect furnace prices in Canada:

• Size of your home & BTU output: A larger home will require a larger furnace size/output with a higher heating capacity (BTU output) will cost more than a smaller furnace
• Region & market factors: Local competition, supply chain effects, surges in demand, and many other factors will impact cost from region to region
• Replacing an old furnace & modern building codes: Installation costs will be higher if you have to upgrade your ventilation or existing ductwork, for example
• Natural gas vs. propane furnace: Natural gas and propane furnace prices are generally similar, but propane forced-air furnaces might be pricier because they’re often installed in more rural areas
• Furnace efficiency: The best furnaces tend to cost more as they have additional technology which makes them more efficient, like variable-speed motors and modulating burners. A 98.9% AFUE (annualized fuel utilization efficiency) rated furnace, which is about as efficient as you can currently buy, will likely cost about $1000 – $2000 more than a 95% AFUE furnace on average (including installation). This means a higher cost upfront but somewhat lower energy consumption and operating costs.

Is it worth the extra cost for a higher-efficiency furnace?

The increase in efficiency won’t necessarily have a dramatic impact on heating bills, but the features that make top of the line furnaces more efficient also usually make them quieter and better at maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. They also tend to have the best warranty coverage. 

How Furnace Prices Vary by Region: Prices Are Higher in Rural Areas

The average price of a new high-efficiency propane or natural gas furnace is mostly consistent across Canada, usually in the $4000 – $6500 range, including installation. 

But prices will vary from one home to the next and one region to another, especially when it comes to rural areas. Rural areas tend to have higher prices, because:

• There’s less competition among HVAC contractors
• There are fewer customers, so contractors must charge more to cover operating costs
• Equipment must also be shipped farther for distribution
• If they’re offering you a labour warranty, then they’ll factor in the cost of service calls
• Customers tend to be farther apart, making service more time-consuming and costly

We can’t give exact numbers, but here are some estimates about how prices may vary depending on your location:

• Expect to pay 20 to 40% more for a furnace if you’re roughly 1 hour+ from the nearest city
• Expect to pay 50 to 60%+ more for a furnace if you’re 2 to 3 hours+ away from the nearest city (especially for a large home or complicated job)

Based on these numbers, you can expect to pay between $4,800 and $9,600 for a new forced air furnace in a rural area, depending on how far out you are from the nearest city.

Rural Versus Metropolitan Areas

By contrast, large metropolitan areas like the Greater Toronto Area or the Greater Vancouver Area tend to have a dense collection of HVAC contractors and customers, and the competition helps to lower prices a bit. 

At the same time, certain regions may also have different regulations or require additional licensing, which may add to the cost of delivering the service.

However, established, dependable companies will typically charge prices roughly inline with the average across Canada. It’s usually the smaller and less-established vendors or contractors who offer lower prices. 

We would generally advise some caution when going with the lowest price you can find. Lower prices can mean the company has a lack of support staff, insurance, warranty coverage, and other important things you get from more established providers.

FurnacePrices.ca has developed our own independent Certification program to help Canadian homeowners find trusted and reliable contractors that have verified licenses, insurance, and a good reputation. When you need a new furnace, call a verified professional!

According to real Canadians, you can expect excellent service, fair pricing, knowledgeable staff, and punctuality when you work with one of our Certified partners.

Furnace Prices by Brand/Manufacturer

Furnace Prices by Size & BTU Output

Furnace size will depend on the square footage of your house, the layout (e.g. townhouse/townhome, semi-detached, fully detached, bungalow, etc.), your climate, insulation, and how new your home is. An HVAC specialist can give you an accurate sizing estimate. 

The chart below shows example prices (just a guideline!) for a new forced air gas furnace (including installation) to show how prices might vary by heating capacity, assuming we’re talking about the same brand and model across all sizes.

Furnace Prices by Efficiency (AFUE)

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency is the energy efficiency rating of a furnace. More efficient furnaces will cost more, but they’ll also save more on energy bills. 

AFUE used to be more important, but now the Canadian government has mandated a minimum efficiency rating of 95% in most cases (with certain limited exceptions). As such, all new high-efficiency furnaces will generate similar savings and lower energy bills. 

That being said, it is still worth opting for a higher end model with additional efficiency features like a variable-speed/ECM motor and optionally a modulating burner. These units tend to be quieter and provide increased comfort and more consistent indoor temperatures.

ENERGY STAR® certification is a guarantee of efficiency and performance and usually a requirement for government rebates. We recommend an ENERGY STAR® model if possible.

See how much you might save on operating costs with our New Furnace Savings Calculator

(Note that generally furnaces below 95% AFUE aren’t available in Canada anymore.)

Furnace Prices by Fuel Type

Note that these prices include a typical installation.

• Natural Gas Furnaces – $4,000 – $6,500+
• Propane Furnaces – $5,000 – $7,500+ (typically in more rural areas, which increases average costs)
• Electric Furnaces – $3,000 – $5,500+
• Oil Furnaces – $3,000 – $5,500+

Learn more about converting from oil or electric to propane or natural gas.

Furnace Installation Cost & Other Important Factors

Installation & Labour Cost

Labour and installation usually cost around $1000 – $1200+. This is just a general estimate, of course.

Why so much? 

Installation costs cover hours of labour from the main technician and possibly a helper, as well as built-in costs like business expenses, staff, office/warehouse lease, company insurance, licensing, vehicles and gas, and beyond.

Related Article:

The Truth About Furnace (and A/C) Pricing – by Simon Bernath, founder of FurnacePrices.ca

Factors That Can Affect Installation Cost

For a more accurate estimate about furnace installation costs, request a quote from a local company. Here are just a few things that can affect the installation cost of a new furnace, usually due to the additional parts and labour needed:

• Location of the furnace – e.g. is it easily accessible versus in a crawlspace? 
• Venting upgrades – older furnaces tended to be larger than newer models, meaning you’ll have to retrofit the existing ductwork, e.g. the plenum (the ductwork connecting to the furnace) 
• Modern safety codes – new safety codes can require upgrades to venting and piping, electrical wiring, and so on
• Other extras – things like chimney liners, condensation draining, and so on 
• Conversions – converting an oil furnace or electric furnace to natural gas or propane makes the installation more complex  

Adding it all up

Expect to pay about $3000 – $3500 at the minimum for a new furnace, including installation. 

For a high-efficiency furnace with at least two stages, most homeowners in Canada will pay an average of $4000 to $6500+. 

Prices can stretch as high as $8000+ if it’s a top-of-the-line furnace, if it’s a complex installation (or conversion from, say, oil to propane), if you live farther from a large city, or if there are added other costs like financing interest over a period of many years.

Money-Saving Buying Tips 

• Take advantage of current deals & promotions from local HVAC contractors: Check out our Current Deals page for the latest offers from our local Certified Partner Contractors.
• Save money through manufacturer promotions and rebates: HVAC manufacturers offer rebates and deals on certain models from time to time.
• See if you qualify for any government rebates: Check out our Current Government HVAC Rebates page to learn more and see what is available.
• Look for additional rebates: Other local organizations like your local utility company may also be offering grants, rebates, and incentives for energy efficient heating systems. 

Rebates vary by region and can change at any time. You’ll also need to register or apply before you buy

Watch Out for Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True

We’ve seen people online advertising prices as low as $1500 – $2000 for a new forced air heating system, but in most cases, these advertised prices don’t reflect the actual final price because:

• Various “extras” get added on which inflate the final cost, or
• The company installs refurbished units or second-hand components, or
• The company isn’t established and doesn’t offer warranty coverage 

Carefully research the company you deal with. Dependable, established companies may charge a bit more, but they can also be counted on to do a better job, use quality parts & components, and be there in the event your system ever needs servicing.

Like any home contracting job, you often get what you pay for!

We always recommend buying from a company that offers at least a 1-year warranty on labour and installation, in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty. 

Companies offering prices that are significantly lower than the average market rate don’t always buy each furnace unit directly from the manufacturer. In those cases, the manufacturer may not honour the warranty.

Are Rent to Own Furnaces a Good Idea?

Furnace rental or rent-to-own programs allow homeowners to replace their furnace without any upfront costs. Instead, you pay a flat monthly rate instead. 

These programs generally come with an included “protection plan.” In theory, this means the homeowner never has to pay out of pocket for repairs or furnace maintenance. 

This may be a good option for some people. However, note that the total cost paid will generally be higher overall than if you simply purchase your system and pay for installation. 

The rent-to-own HVAC industry also has a generally negative reputation as a result of high volumes of complaints, so be careful when going this route.

In Summary

Ultimately, expect to pay between $4,000 and $6,500 on average for a new furnace in Canada, but don’t forget about the many factors affecting the final price. We can do our best to provide estimates and price guidelines, but every home and situation is different, so the best thing to do is get an estimate from an experienced and established local HVAC contractor.

In order to help Canadians get reliable, high-quality, energy-efficient heating systems at a fair price, we’ve developed a rigorous certification program for local heating & cooling companies that verifies their licenses, insurance, track record, and more!

Get free estimates from Certified local contractors in your area today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Many Canadians consider buying a furnace from Costco. It’s a well-known and trusted corporation that often offers cash incentives. But what else is there to purchasing a furnace from Costco? Buying a furnace is no small investment, you will want to walk into this decision fully knowledgeable.

Here is an overview of buying a furnace from Costco. We will discuss the process, which company does the actual installation, the brands Costco typically supplies, whether or not financing is available, the average cost, and the pros and cons of a Costco furnace.

The Process of Buying a Furnace at Costco

Costco wants you to purchase a furnace from them, so they make it fairly easy to do so. You’ll be able to enjoy a Costco furnace in three easy steps:

Step one: You just have to schedule a free, in-home consultation with Costco, who will often set you up with an HVAC Lennox® consultant. You can set this up online through Costco’s site or by phone.

Step two: A consultant will visit your home to understand your HVAC needs. Then, you can decide on the products you would like to purchase and how you would like to pay.

Step three: A certified contractor will be by your house to install your equipment.

The big draw for many people who want to purchase a Costco furnace is the deal they often have on Lennox® equipment. You can earn up to 10% back from the Costco furnace cost in the form of store credit. But what many people don’t realize is that sometimes, Costco furnace installs can cost more than a local supplier, which we will discuss the details of below.

What Brands does Costco Sell?

Typically, Costco sells Lennox®, a furnace supplier that offers some of the highest efficiency furnaces on the market. Their higher-end models have features that can help with reducing noise levels.

Is Financing Available at Costco?

Costco does not offer financing. They do have a Costco credit card you could apply for to deal with financing your purchase that way. The CIBC-supported Mastercard has an interest rate of 19.75% but also offers special interest rates with no installment fees for eligible Costco purchases. This is through the CIBC Pace It™ program that involves installment plans.

What’s the Average Cost of Buying a Furnace at Costco?

You can expect the average cost of buying a furnace at Costco to be slightly higher than the average cost of buying a furnace from a local supplier. This is because Costco will likely use a local contractor or HVAC company to install the furnace and will need to raise its price to cover that cost. The benefit of buying a Costco furnace is that you may be able to get cashback in a loyalty program.

For example, Lennox® furnaces, which Costco sells, often cost $3,000 minimum new but likely quite a bit higher, especially given that Lennox is generally a more expensive brand. On average, a high-efficiency Lennox® furnace with at least two stages may cost Canadians between $4,500 and $7,500+ with installation. Prices can rise if it is a complex installation. Prices vary depending on whether you’ve chosen a furnace from the Merit, Elite, or Premium Dave Lennox Signature Collection Series.

Before you purchase a furnace from Costco, be sure you know the average cost of a Lennox® furnace in your area so you can decide if the markup is reasonable. Be sure to gather a few quotes from different HVAC suppliers and installation companies so you can make an informed decision.

What HVAC Company does Costco Use?

The HVAC company Costco uses will vary by region. The corporation often has contracts with various contractors, some of which are our partner contractors at FurnacePrices.ca. If you decide to purchase a Costco furnace, be sure to ask which HVAC company they use for installations.

Then you can look up reviews of their installation process or call the company to ask them any questions you may have. You can also see if the HVAC company got certified by our unbiased certification process.

The Pros and Cons of Dealing with Costco as Your Furnace Supplier

There are pros and cons when dealing with any third party as a furnace supplier. Here are a few to consider when buying a furnace at Costco:

Pros

• Many people trust Costco as they have made other, larger purchases there and have had a good experience.
• Costco generally has a consistent product offering, although this may not always be the case when it comes to services provided by third parties as is the case with HVAC products & services like furnaces
• Costco’s customer service process, its return policy, and other details are well-documented on its website.
• Costco often offers an incentive to shop with them, occasionally at 10% back on your purchase price in store credit.
• Costco offers additional Comfort Shield warranty coverage. The Comfort Shield labor warranty program provides extra coverage for Lennox equipment—coverage that may alleviate your homeowners’ out-of-pocket costs for things like labour charges, diagnostic fees, and refrigerant that are not covered by the factory warranty. You will want to read this warranty carefully to understand exactly what it will cover. Also note that annual maintenance may be a requirement (performed by a qualifying contractor to maintain full coverage.)

Cons

• You don’t know who Costco’s furnace installation company will be until you ask, and it can be difficult to guarantee quality installation since it is through a third party.
• You may end up paying a markup for Costco to act as a third party between you and the HVAC installation company.
• The Shield warranty Costco offers may come with limitations and is only good for 3 years.
• Costco’s furnace reviews online can skew negative, depending on where you look.
• Costco requires an annual membership fee which you may have to pay in order to buy a Costco furnace.

Looking for a quote on a new furnace from carefully-vetted local contractors that you can depend on? FurnacePrices.ca’s local contractors have passed our extensive Certification process with a great track record. Compare free estimates today!

A furnace tune up refers to having an HVAC professional conduct a series of checks, component cleaning & testing and, as required, maintenance to your furnace to keep it in good working order.

A furnace tune up is much like a car tune up, where the goal is to maximize the life of the system and avoid surprise repairs. Canadian winters can be brutal, so regularly getting a furnace checkup can help you avoid losing the ability to heat your home when it matters most.

Canadian winters can be among the most severe in the world, so keeping your furnace tuned up will help keep your furnace running safely and efficiently, and keep the warm air flowing even when winter is at its worst.

In colder regions you’ll likely want to have your heating system maintenance done earlier in the fall to be ready for any early cold snaps.

How Much Does a Furnace Tune Up Cost In Canada?  

You can typically expect to pay somewhere between $70.00 and $250.00 for a full furnace tune up and inspection within Canada.

You should also factor in an extra $50 – $250 per year for furnace air filters, which you should replace at least once every 3 months or ideally every month or two. Each furnace model requires a certain size of filter so the exact cost will vary.

Additional Furnace Maintenance Service Costs

A full furnace inspection is also typically included in a tune-up. Furnace service costs will vary with the extent of the inspection and whether any parts or additional labour is required.

If your tune-up reveals any significant issues, more extensive furnace maintenance or repairs may be required. When additional labour is required to replace parts, the cost can easily reach $500.00 or more.

If your furnace is under warranty, or you have a furnace protection plan, you may not have to pay some of these additional costs out of pocket, protecting you against unexpected expensive repair costs. And a warranty or protection plan will likely cover your air conditioning system and may include a spring check up.

Why Are Tune Ups Important?

Because heating and cooling systems are mechanical devices, regular maintenance is important to ensure they stay in good working order. Some extended warranties also require annual maintenance be done by fully licensed technicians to maintain full coverage.

Especially with older furnaces, it’s best to catch required repairs early in the season if possible, rather than having your unit break down in the coldest stretch of winter.

Furnace and air conditioner tune-ups should ideally be performed at the start of fall and spring, respectively.

Benefits of Getting an Annual Furnace Tune-Up

Safety

Safety is the first and foremost goal in a furnace tune-up, especially considering that furnaces burn fuel for heat. Heating can come in many forms in Canada, but most of us use some form of oil-burning or natural gas-burning furnaces. Although relatively rare, improperly maintained heating systems can allow carbon monoxide to permeate the living space, putting the occupants at risk.

A tune-up will include inspecting key components like the heat exchanger for possible leaks, and ideally also ensuring carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

Improving Energy Efficiency

An annual furnace tune-up can help improve your heating system’s energy efficiency by ensuring moving parts like the blower are operating properly, which can also help prevent excessive noise.

Things like replacing your air filter (which you can and should also do yourself at least every few months) can improve air quality and help your furnace operate at peak efficiency, which can help lower your energy bills.

Proper maintenance may also help you save money in the long term. For example, replacing some worn-out components can keep your furnace from working harder than it needs to. If left unchecked, those parts may eventually fail and require costly repairs.

What Is Included In a Furnace Tune-Up?

A heating system tune-up will include inspecting, testing, preventative maintenance, and, if needed, repairing your heating system.

The technician will go through a checklist of items to ensure everything is working smoothly, and replace any minor parts that may be starting to wear out.

The HVAC technicians will also notify you of any concerns, or things to monitor. Sensors and other components may be cleaned, and they’ll likely check drain lines, air ducts, and replace the air filter to help with efficient operation and good indoor air quality.

Here is a partial list of the components and systems that are commonly inspected during a furnace tune-up:

• Heat exchanger
• New air filter for cleaner air and smoother operation
• Natural gas/propane or other fuel lines
• Blower compartment, motor & belts
• Thermostat
• Exterior air intake & exhaust venting
• Plenum & ductwork
• Igniter & sensors
• Circuit board
• Wiring & power switch
• Check for carbon monoxide leaks & CO detector test
• Refrigerant lines & connections to your air conditioning system if applicable (your AC isn’t the main focus obviously, but it does use certain furnace components)

The inspection may find issues like cracks in your heat exchanger which would cause your furnace to be red-tagged. The technician may also be able to diagnose small carbon monoxide leaks, identify loose or worn out components like blower bearings, or faulty sensors.

Tell your technician about any problems or questions you have with your HVAC system, including noises, reduced airflow from registers, strange odours, inconsistent or inadequate indoor temperatures, dry air, and so on.

Having a furnace tune-up performed on a regular basis will help you maximize furnace efficiency and prevent small issues from becoming major costly repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Choose a Furnace Tune-Up Specialist?

The best way to find a great furnace tune-up & repair specialist in your area is to start with the company that installed the unit. Otherwise, you should do some thorough online research, checking things like their track record, and verifying licenses and insurance, among other criteria.

At FurnacePrices.ca, we created an extensive 15-point vetting and Certification program to help you find reliable local HVAC specialists you can trust.

Your furnace is spending money for you, so help it operate as cost effectively as possible! Get your furnace tuned up by a heating repair pro, ask lots of questions, and enjoy the benefits. 

A definitive guide to the best high-efficiency propane and natural gas furnaces in Canada, including the most energy-efficient and most reliable heating systems, the quietest models, the furnaces with the best warranties, top features, and the overall best furnace brands.

Here at FurnacePrices.ca, our goal is to make it easier for Canadian consumers to research, understand, and select the right heating systems for their homes. Every year, we look into the best furnaces from all the major brands to evaluate and compare them, so you don’t have to.

We base our evaluations on criteria such as pricing, features, warranties, and efficiency ratings & ENERGY STAR® models to find the stand-out models from North America’s favourite manufacturers. 

In this guide, we’ll give you an in-depth comparison of the best furnaces on the market today in these categories so you can easily decide for yourself which make, model, and brand is right for your family’s comfort.

Who Should You Trust to Install Your New Furnace?

The HVAC contractor you choose can be every bit as important as the brand and model you pick. We recommend buying from an experienced and established company that will provide reliable and quality workmanship, professional installation, and dependable ongoing support for years afterwards.

To help you find a local HVAC expert with all the right credentials, we created our own independent contractor certification program.

We vet experts from all across the country for important factors like experience, reputation, training, licensing, quoting process, and much more.

When it’s time for you to buy, install, or maintain a furnace, this will make it easier for you to find a dependable and trustworthy contractor.

Get FREE estimates from our Certified Local HVAC Contractors here >>

Take Our Furnace Recommendation Quiz

How We Evaluate Furnaces and Formulate Our Recommendations

One of the first things people often consider when buying a new furnace is the brand, but there are several more important factors to think about when upgrading your heating system. All brands have unique advantages and disadvantages, but we focus more on the individual units rather than the manufacturers that make them. Just a handful of companies own most of the HVAC brands you’re familiar with, so overall most brands are quite similar.

Here are the top things to consider when you’re buying a new furnace:

• Look for a furnace with a high, cost-saving AFUE rating: the most efficient furnace on the market right now converts virtually 99 percent of the fuel it consumes into heat
• If you have the budget for it, a higher-performing two-stage or variable-speed modulating furnace will provide better cost-savings, quieter comfort, and more consistent temperatures
• Excellent warranty coverage could save you thousands over the lifespan of your furnace (although the labour warranty you get from the local HVAC contractor who installs it is arguably just as important, if not more so)
• Get the best value for your budget, whether you’re looking for something entry-level, mid-range, or top-tier
• Additional features and pioneering technologies can make your life easier, and those include remote Wi-Fi access to the system, noise-reducing technology, smart thermostat communication, and more
• It’s very important to get a system that’s the right size for your home and heating needs
• Have the unit installed and maintained regularly by a certified HVAC technician
• Look for furnaces that are made with quality materials and construction
• Find an HVAC dealer you trust and can rely on when buying your furnace and having it installed and serviced

All of these factors (and especially regular servicing, proper care, and professional installation) are far more important when it comes to furnace reliability than the brand you buy.

To help you find a dependable and trustworthy HVAC contractor for new furnace installations, request a free estimate from our Certified Local HVAC Contractors, to find an experienced high-quality company.

How We Assess the Most Reliable Furnaces

RELATED ARTICLE: The Truth About Furnace (and A/C) Reliability

Having a reliable furnace isn’t just a luxury in Canada—it’s a necessity. Our winters are far too cold and long to worry about whether your furnace will last another season, so getting a reliable furnace is crucial.

Fortunately, manufacturing standards and competition in the market mean that all HVAC brands generally offer dependable and long-lasting furnaces. But getting a reliable furnace is about more than picking the right brand and model. 

A dependable furnace also requires:

• Being the right size and capacity for your home
• Installation by a professional HVAC expert
• Regular maintenance and service
• Timely repairs when necessary

These added variables make it difficult to definitively evaluate which brands are most reliable because the contractor or company that installed it also plays an important role, among other things.

Why Customer Reviews Aren’t Always the Best Source for Evaluating Furnaces

Furthermore, any data on furnace malfunctions and breakdowns, including consumer reviews, tend to be skewed by a number of factors. For example, larger and more popular brands tend to have more complaints by customers simply because there are far more people that have these units installed overall.

Even if the percentage of people that encounter serious issues is relatively low, online feedback may give the impression that problems are more common than they really are.

People are also much less likely to take the time to go online and post a review about their furnace quietly doing its job. Instead, they’re far more likely to post a review when something goes wrong. For this reason, consumer reviews of furnaces often appear to have a negative slant, regardless of brand.

Using Warranty Coverage as the Standard of Excellence

We’ve chosen to compare warranty coverage as the main gauge of reliability. In contrast to customer reviews, it’s a much more tangible and objective way to compare brands. Although warranty coverage doesn’t directly indicate reliability, it does offer a good indication of the type of guarantee offered by the manufacturer.

A manufacturer that backs their products with an excellent warranty is putting their money where their mouth is because the warranty terms tell you how long you can expect to be covered in the event something goes wrong.

Ultimately, most modern furnaces that are sized correctly by a professional and installed by an experienced and certified technician tend to be quite reliable, with few major differences in reliability across most brands and manufacturers.

That’s not to say that furnaces never have issues and never break down, but for every person complaining online about their furnace malfunctioning, there are thousands of homeowners with a furnace humming along for years.

Now that we’ve covered that, let’s have a look at the best high-efficiency furnaces on the market in Canada for 2020!

RELATED ARTICLE: The TRUTH About Online Furnace (and AC) Reviews

Furnaces with the Best Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage isn’t just an important indicator of the quality of your furnace: it could also save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. 

Major components like heat exchangers can cost thousands of dollars to replace or repair, so a good warranty could mean the difference between you paying out of pocket or the manufacturer covering the cost.

Most manufacturers have base warranties with limited terms and registered warranties with extended coverage. To be eligible for the extended coverage, you’ll have to register the unit online with the manufacturer within 60 to 90 days of installation. Your contractor may do this for you, which highlights the importance of choosing a dependable contractor.

Some of the most common warranties include parts, heat exchanger, and unit replacement warranties, but some manufacturers also have labour warranties to cover problems that crop up in the first couple years.

• Parts warranties cover the cost of replacing parts if something goes wrong
• Heat exchanger warranties are specifically for the heat exchanger, and promise a new one if the original fails
• Unit replacement warranties will cover the cost of replacing the entire furnace should a major component fail
• Labour warranties cover the cost of an HVAC technician’s time if your furnace needs repairs

Generally speaking, the economy models within any brand will have the most basic warranties with the lowest coverage. Mid-budget models will have more extensive and longer warranties. Finally, a brand’s premium-priced models will have the most comprehensive and longest warranties.

Best Furnaces by BTU Output

Our furnace rankings and recommendations in this guide cover furnaces of various BTU output, because most furnace models come in a range sizes and BTU output, including:

• 40,000 BTU
• 50,000 BTU
• 60,000 BTU
• 80,000 BTU
• 100,000 BTU
• and more

So ultimately you’ll want to choose based on other factors like energy efficiency and warranty coverage.

Your HVAC contractor can help you choose the best furnace model and BTU output for your home.

The Best Furnaces by Budget

For many homeowners, furnace cost is one of the most important considerations when upgrading to a newer furnace. The good news is that furnace prices range from affordable for standard models to expensive for upscale models, so depending on your budget and what you want, you’ll still be able to find something that suits your needs.

It’s important to note that some brands effectively charge a premium for the brand name, but their more expensive models often have additional features as well, such as variable-speed blowers, better warranties, higher efficiency ratings, and new technologies.

That’s not to say that lower-cost brands aren’t as good. Many of them still have models that offer great features too. There are also mid-priced brands that make both basic and more advanced furnaces, so it’s important to compare the price of a specific furnace against other important things like:

• Brand
• Furnace features and technologies
• AFUE (fuel efficiency)
• Warranty terms
• Your budget
• Value

RELATED ARTICLE: The TRUTH About Furnace (and A/C) Pricing

As for which furnaces have the best prices, the brand itself is less important than the individual models. Every brand usually has a good sweet spot, with models that offer decent performance at a reasonable price.

HVAC manufacturers typically have three furnace tiers: entry-level, mid-range, and top-tier. The tier will impact not only the price, but also what features and warranty terms you get. 

The entry-level models will be the most affordable, but they’ll be the most basic in terms of technology and coverage. Top-tier models will be the most expensive and the most stacked in terms of features, energy-efficiency, and warranty coverage.

Let’s look at some of the stand-out furnace models of 2022 based on price and value:

Furnaces with the Best Features

Some HVAC manufacturers invest in novel features and technologies that give them a leg up over the competition, make their furnaces more appealing, and make your life more comfortable and convenient.

The economy models from any brand will have the fewest additional features whereas the more expensive models will come more fully loaded, but some manufacturers put more emphasis on new tech than others.

Before we get into what features you can find with specific models, here’s a quick description of some of the best specifications features to look for:

• Smart thermostat compatibility so you can automate your heating needs throughout the day and gain remote Wi-Fi access to the controls
• Noise-reducing features that promise quiet operation
• Self-diagnostics systems that monitor performance and alert you to maintenance needs and potential problems
• Unique features that are designed to enhance performance and comfort
• Built-in or add-on air purification and humidity control systems
• Suitability for zone controls so you can set different temperatures in different rooms
• Variable-speed fans and blower motors for quieter operation, better humidity control, and more even temperatures
• Features and specially designed components that increase the longevity of the furnace
• Two-stage or modulating gas valves that are quieter, more efficient, and eliminate temperature swings and fluctuations
• A secondary heat exchanger to wring every bit of heat out of the exhaust gasses

Furnace Features for Energy Efficiency

Lennox’s Power Saver technology involves a constant torque motor that consumes less energy while also keeping your home more comfortable thanks to on-demand airspeed adjustment. Lennox is a premium brand and this technology is only available with their mid-range and top-tier models, so you will need a higher budget to get a furnace with this feature.

Napoleon’s EnerSave technology works similarly, and reduces electricity use and noise when the system is running on the continuous fan mode.

Another feature from Napoleon that increases efficiency and reduces costs is the vortex turbulator, a proprietary heat exchanger that recycles heat from exhaust gases.

Features for Control and Convenience

Many HVAC manufacturers have their own programmable smart thermostats that can save you money by optimizing how and when your furnace heats your home. These devices can also ensure that your home is always at the perfect temperature when you’re home, and in energy-saving modes when you’re away. Here are some of the perks that most smart thermostats have in common:

• Most can be controlled remotely with a smartphone or tablet (and some even with Amazon Alexa)
• They allow you to monitor the system
• You can keep an eye on performance and energy use
• You can change temperature settings on the fly
• You can control temperature, humidity, and airflow settings
• They let you program different temperature settings based on days of the week and times of day
• They provide problem reports, system diagnostics, and maintenance reminders
• They can send updates to your local HVAC technician for faster service
• They give local weather updates

Here’s a list of the smart thermostats that can be paired with different brands’ furnaces, and which makes/models are compatible with those devices:

Features for Healthy Air and Humidity Control

• Both Carrier and Bryant have some furnaces that are equipped with SmartEvap, a humidity control system that works with your air conditioner in summer to pull moisture from the air. This can improve indoor air quality by eliminating moisture problems, but it can also save you money and keep you more comfortable on those muggy summer days. 

• The ClimaTrak Technology that’s available with select York, Luxaire, and Coleman models allows your local HVAC specialist to customize the furnace’s humidity control capabilities by setting the system to work optimally in either a dry, temperate, or humid climate.

• Daikin’s Premium Air Cleaner is a filter that’s superior to standard furnace filters, so it can help keep the air in your home fresher, cleaner, and clear of allergens and pollutants.

• Similarly, Trane has CleanEffects, which is another advanced furnace filter that cleans the air of dust, allergens, and other pollutants and contaminants.

• American Standard also has a special filter you can purchase separately, the AccuClean Whole-Home Air Cleaner, which can eliminate up to 99.98 percent of contaminants from the air.

• Bryant doesn’t have a proprietary filter, but they do have the TrueSense technology, a dirty filter detector that notifies you when it’s time to clean or replace the furnace filter.

• For their part, Napoleon’s 9700 series furnaces come equipped with their HomeShield UV, a special UV lamp that purifies the air as it goes through the furnace.

Features for Durability and Longevity

• Top-tier furnaces from Goodman and Amana have the CoolCloud app, which allows certified HVAC experts to connect to your furnace settings and configure and diagnose problems faster and more easily. This ensures proper maintenance and repairs, which can increase the life of your unit.  

• Some Lennox furnaces have a similar heat exchanger, the clamshell Duralok Plus heat exchanger that’s made from high-quality ArmorTuf steel.

• Armstrong’s EHX Technology is another proprietary heat exchanger design that comes standard in every Armstrong furnace to increase durability by eliminating hot spots, while also improving heat exchange, airflow, and efficiency. 

• Most Tempstar, Heil, and Comfortmaker furnaces have a special Rigid Press Joint (RPJ) heat exchanger that is more durable and long-lasting because it has a weld-free interlocking clamshell design.

• American Standard has improved furnace longevity by creating the Vortica™ II Blower, which isn’t just efficient, but also rust-, corrosion-, and crack-resistant.

• Select Ruud and Rheem furnaces are equipped with the PlusOne Diagnostics system, an LED display that provides in-depth diagnostics that make service and repairs easier.
  
• Trane furnaces come with stainless steel heat exchangers for increased heat and corrosion-resistance

Features for Improved Comfort

Many of the features in this category are technologies that monitor the outdoor temperature and your furnace settings, and adjust heating output, humidity, and airflow to optimize indoor comfort levels. These include:

• ComfortBridge from Amana and Goodman
• Greenspeed® Intelligence from Carrier
• AirFlex from Lennox
• Comfort-R technology from Trane and American Standard
• Integrated Furnace Control from Napoleon
• Perfect Heat from Bryant

Features for Quiet Operation

Modern furnace brands know that winter comfort isn’t just about temperature—it’s also about silence. That’s why many modern furnaces have features or design specifications that reduce noise, such as two-stage gas valves, modulating burners, and variable-speed blower motors.

Other manufacturers go one step further and create special sound-reduction features that limit noise, including unique fan blade designs, additional cabinet insulation, and gradual start-up systems. Here are some of the best sound-reducing features to look for in some brands’ select models:

• Armstrong’s Quiet Combustion Technology
• Napoleon’s Whisper Quiet
• Coleman’s WhisperDrive Comfort System
• Bryant’s QuietTech™
• Luxaire’s Silent Drive Comfort System
• Lennox’s SilentComfort Technology

Most Efficient Furnaces

Efficiency is another common thing people consider carefully when choosing a new heating system. The more efficient your furnace, the more you’ll save on your heating bills every year.

Just about every HVAC brand sold in Canada has a model with an AFUE rating of at least 96 percent, so no matter what your budget is, you’ll be able to find a high-efficiency furnace for your home.

Before we go over the models with the highest efficiency ratings on the market, it’s important to mention a few things about how tier and price can impact efficiency:

• The most affordable economy furnaces tend to have single-stage gas valves and fixed-speed blower motors, so they’re less efficient (AFUE ratings from 92 to 93 percent), as well as noisier and have more temperature fluctuations.

• Mid-budget mid-range furnaces typically have two-stage gas valves and multi- or variable-speed blower motors, so they’re more consistent, quieter, and more efficient (95 to 96 percent AFUE). Many reasonably popular brands have these features, including KeepRite, Payne, and many others covered above.

• Premium, top-tier furnaces are the most expensive, and these are often modulating furnaces with variable-speed blower motors, so they offer the best efficiency (97 to 99 percent AFUE), the quietest operation, the most consistent temperatures, and the best humidity control. 

These days, all HVAC manufacturers, from the most economy brands to the highest-end names, have models that are ENERGY STAR certified, which is a great way to know you’re getting an energy-efficient and more environmentally-friendly heating system. This is a bonus when considering the impact of the carbon tax on heating costs. We always recommend opting for an ENERGY STAR furnace when possible.

Now let’s look at the most energy-efficient furnaces on the market, broken down by budget. You’ll note that a higher cost doesn’t necessarily translate to a higher efficiency rating, and just about every manufacturer in Canada has at least one model with an excellent efficiency rating:

Getting the Most from Your Furnace

No matter what furnace you end up choosing, it’s important to have it installed by an experienced, licensed & certified HVAC technician. This will ensure the unit is installed properly, is functioning optimally, and is the correct size for your home. Plus, it will prevent potential problems down the road, and could save you plenty on unnecessary repair bills.

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