Heating, Furnace and Fireplace FAQ
Q: Does setting back the thermostat actually save energy or does it cost more to return my building to a comfortable temperature?A: With conventional gas furnace heating systems, you will save energy by turning the thermostat back for a minimum of four hours. Click here for more details.
Q: I have noticed on very cold days the furnace seems to run constantly. Does this mean I need a larger furnace?
A: A gas furnace is most efficient when it runs for long periods of time. A perfectly sized furnace should run almost constantly on very cold days maintaining the thermostat setting. If the furnace is capable of maintaining a comfortable temperature, the size you have should be sufficient.
Q: Is it a good idea to close or seal off the heating registers in unused rooms?
A: Closing or sealing a small number of heating registers and closing the corresponding room doors will reduce your heating bills somewhat. However, with central forced air systems common in Alberta, closing off more than one-third of your registers may create pressure imbalances and cause the blower fan to work harder, potentially shortening equipment life.
Q: How often should I change the filters in my forced air heating system?
A: You should check your filters monthly and replace every three months during heating season. A dirty filter can interfere with the proper air flow through the system and reduces the heat transfer from the heat exchanger to the air, thus reducing the heating system efficiency.
Q: Does a wood burning fireplace help to heat a home?
A: Most fireplaces are very inefficient because they draw a great deal of inside heated air for combustion that is lost up the chimney. Fireplace glass doors limit the amount of air drawn up the chimney, or installing a fireplace insert that draws combustion air from outdoors will greatly increase the efficiency.
Q: Will a gas fireplace save energy?
A: Decorative gas fireplaces are just that, decorative and do not save energy for heating the home. There are efficient gas fireplaces on the market specifically designed for space heating.
Q: Is an electric blanket an efficient way to save energy?
A: Yes, because the heat is directed where it is needed without heating the whole room or the rest of the house.
