If you’ve looked at your energy bill and wondered why it’s much more than in previous years, you’re not alone. While it’s easy to place the blame on inflation, rate increases from energy suppliers, or sudden cold snaps, Dan LeBlanc, owner of Simcoe Muskoka Home Comfort (SMHC) says you may be overlooking one key factor: your furnace.
“Rising rates and dropping temperatures play a role in your energy bill, but if you’re seeing a huge spike in the cost, it could mean that your furnace is ready to be replaced,” he says.
As your furnace ages, Dan notes that it often struggles to maintain the climate in your home. As a result, you’ll hear it turning on more often and notice your temperature either dropping below the set temperature on your thermostat or shooting well above it.
If this sounds familiar, now’s the perfect time to replace your furnace.
“Aging furnaces are notorious for dying on the coldest day of the year,” says Dan. “And no one wants to wake to a cold floor and the stress of having to replace the furnace immediately for the sake of their family.”
Thankfully, Ontario is now offering rebates to homeowners who upgrade their heating systems to energy-efficient furnaces and heat pumps.
“We work with all the programs: the oil affordability rebate, the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) and the Greater Homes Loan.”
While the exact cost savings vary, Dan says they can be substantial, especially when factoring in the energy savings you’ll see on your future energy bills.
The key is to invest in a reliable, efficient heating product like those from Lennox. Lennox furnaces and heat pumps feature advanced technologies like variable-speed motors and modulating burners, which can help to improve energy efficiency and reduce noise levels.
However, it’s important to remember that selecting an educated, experienced installer is just as important as a reputable brand.
SMHC has been certified by the HRAI (Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada) as one of the industry’s few “Heat Pump Champions.”
“Our 40 technicians have the right training, the right experience to offer heat pumps, and service them,” says Dan. We lead weekly training sessions for our team, and host Lennox experts for on-site training as new products are released.”
While it pays to plan ahead, if you do find yourself in the cold this winter, SMHC offers 24/7 emergency furnace repair services across Muskoka, Simcoe County, Tiny Township and the Collingwood area.
“Our service technicians, and their all-wheel drive vehicles, are available to serve you anytime.”
TEXT SHELANNE AUGUSTINE
