In Saskatchewan, having an efficient furnace is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. The efficiency of a furnace is typically measured by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. The AFUE rating indicates the percentage of fuel that is converted into usable heat, with higher ratings indicating greater efficiency. Here are some important points to consider regarding furnace efficiency in Saskatchewan:

1. Minimum Efficiency Standards: The minimum AFUE rating for newly installed furnaces in Saskatchewan is regulated by the provincial building codes. As of the knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the minimum standard for residential gas furnaces in Saskatchewan is 92% AFUE. This means that a new furnace must have a minimum efficiency of 92% to be compliant with the building codes.

2. ENERGY STAR® Certification: Look for furnaces that have earned the ENERGY STAR certification. These models meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Canadian government and can offer significant energy savings compared to standard models. ENERGY STAR certified furnaces typically have AFUE ratings of 95% or higher.

3. Variable-Speed Blower Motors: Furnaces equipped with variable-speed blower motors are more energy-efficient and provide better comfort by adjusting airflow to match the heating demand. These motors operate at lower speeds most of the time, consuming less electricity and reducing energy waste.

4. Zoning Systems: Consider implementing zoning systems in your home, if applicable. Zoning allows you to divide your home into different temperature zones, allowing for better control over heating specific areas. This can help optimize energy usage and provide personalized comfort.

5. Proper Sizing and Installation: It's crucial to ensure that your furnace is properly sized and installed by a qualified HVAC professional. An oversized or undersized furnace can lead to inefficiency, increased energy consumption, and reduced comfort. A professional can assess your home's heating needs and recommend the right furnace size and installation practices.

6. Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your furnace operating efficiently. Schedule annual inspections and tune-ups with a professional technician to clean and inspect the components, check for any issues, and ensure optimal performance. Keeping the furnace clean and well-maintained helps maintain efficiency and can prolong its lifespan.

Remember, while a high-efficiency furnace can provide energy savings, the overall efficiency of your heating system also depends on other factors such as insulation, weather sealing, and proper usage. It's advisable to consult with our professional HVAC technicians at Razor. We can assess your specific needs, recommend suitable options, and ensure compliance with local regulations and codes.

Maintaining your home comfort system, which includes your air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems, is essential for ensuring optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your home comfort system:

1. Regular Filter Replacement: Check and replace your air filters regularly. Clogged or dirty filters restrict airflow, reduce system efficiency, and can lead to poor indoor air quality. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for filter replacement frequency or clean reusable filters as recommended.

2. Professional System Inspections: Schedule annual maintenance inspections with a qualified HVAC technician. They can inspect and tune up your system, identify potential issues, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure proper system operation. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your system running efficiently.

3. Keep Outdoor Units Clear: Clear any debris, vegetation, or obstructions around your outdoor air conditioning unit or heat pump. Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit to ensure proper airflow and prevent airflow restrictions.

4. Check and Clean Condensate Drain: Regularly inspect and clean the condensate drain line to prevent clogs or blockages. A clogged drain can lead to water damage or system malfunctions.

5. Seal Ductwork: Inspect your ductwork for any leaks or gaps. Seal any leaks with duct sealant or mastic tape to improve energy efficiency and ensure proper airflow.

6. Keep Vents and Registers Clean: Regularly clean and remove any obstructions from vents and registers to maintain proper airflow and maximize system efficiency.

7. Programmable Thermostat: Use a programmable or smart thermostat to set temperature schedules based on your occupancy patterns. This helps optimize energy usage and comfort by adjusting temperatures when you are away or asleep.

8. Monitor Energy Usage: Keep an eye on your energy consumption. If you notice a significant increase in energy usage or if your system is not operating as efficiently as before, it may indicate a problem that requires attention from a professional technician.

9. Follow Manufacturer's Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance recommendations for your home comfort system. Different systems may have unique requirements, so it's important to follow their guidelines for optimal performance.

10. Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date with the latest industry information, best practices, and energy-saving tips. This can help you make informed decisions and take appropriate steps to maintain your home comfort system effectively.

Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable performing any maintenance tasks, it is always best to consult with our professional HVAC technicians at Razor. They have the expertise to ensure your system is properly maintained and operating at its best.

If you have a dryer you WILL have lint. Lint builds up in the lint trap but also inside the dryer vent and ductwork, reducing airflow and drying efficiency. Lint can cause humidity levels to rise around vents causing mildew and mold to develop in walls and insulation. But most important: Lint is combustible. Lint causes fires.

Fortunately, removing dangerous lint is simple. The first area to clean after every load is the dryer lint trap by removing the lint from the screen and wiping the edges. If the screen seems clogged, it may be from the dryer sheets you have been using. Submerge the lint screen in a sink of hot water and scrub with a bristle brush to remove all the built-up fabric softener.

The key to success in de-linting a dryer is a dryer lint brush, this long-handled flexible brush will help you reach areas that you cannot get to by hand.

Remove the dryer lint filter. In the opening, use the brush to gently loosen the built-up lint. Don't force the brush if you meet resistance but be sure to clean every surface as much as possible. Remove the big chunks of lint that come out with the brush. Don't worry about the smaller pieces.

Replace the cleaned lint filter. Turn the dryer setting to air only and run for a cycle. This will pull any remaining lint into the filter or blow the loose particles out the outside vent.

Install the Dryer Correctly

A clothes dryer should not vent inside your home or attic. The exhaust contains too much humid air and can cause problems with mold and mildew which are hazardous to your health. A ventless dryer should be used if outside venting is not possible.

The maximum length of a clothes dryer exhaust duct should not exceed 25 feet from the dryer location to the wall or roof termination. The maximum length of the duct should be reduced to two and one-half feet for each 45-degree bend, and five feet for each 90-degree bend. The maximum length of the exhaust duct does not include the transition duct.