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High-Efficiency vs Standard Furnace Ontario — 96% vs 80% AFUE Comparison
Technical Differences
The key difference: a 96% AFUE furnace has a secondary heat exchanger that captures heat from exhaust gases by condensing water vapour. The exhaust is cool enough to vent through PVC pipe. An 80% AFUE furnace vents hot exhaust through a B-vent or Category III pipe.
Which Is Better for Ontario Homes?
- 96% AFUE: best for most Ontario homes — Ontario’s long heating seasons (Oct–April) mean AFUE savings are significant: $200–$400/year
- 80% AFUE: acceptable where PVC venting is not possible or for budget replacements
Venting Comparison
- 96% AFUE: vents through inexpensive PVC pipe (cheap to install)
- 80% AFUE: requires expensive stainless steel B-vent or Category III (higher installation cost)
Should I get a high-efficiency or standard furnace in Ontario?
For Ontario homes, a 96% AFUE high-efficiency furnace is almost always the better choice. It saves $200-$400/year on gas, vents through inexpensive PVC pipe (vs expensive B-vent for 80%), and payback is 4-7 years. Call Madina Mechanical at (416) 424-4328 for a free furnace replacement consultation in Scarborough.
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High-Efficiency Furnace Scarborough: (416) 424-4328
