About Heating
Single-stage Furnace
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Low initial cost
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Operates down to -8 °C
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Temperature swings of up to 5°C
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Less efficient option
Two-stage Furnace
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Excellent temperature control
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Ultra quiet
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Not many when set up correctly
Modulating Furnace
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Precise temperature control
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Most efficient furnaces available
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Higher ticket price
Standard Heat Pumps
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Lower initial cost
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Able to produce heat at -8 °C to -10°C outdoor temperatures
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Not ideal as primary heat source
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Less quiet than cold climate version
Cold-climate Heat Pumps
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Lower annual operating cost
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Able to produce heat down to -25 °C outdoor temperatures
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Higher up front investment is not for everyone's taste
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Requires professional installation
Ductless Heat Pumps
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Low initial cost
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Operates down to -8 °C
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Ideal for homes which don't have existing ductwork
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Ideal for lofts, attics etc.
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A backup heat source is required
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Requires professional installation to ensure long-term system integrity