When it comes to choosing the ideal heating equipment, there are many options to choose from, and the choice can quickly become a puzzle. Let's get to the bottom of it!
 

What type of energy to choose?

There are two main points to consider here:

1. The ease of access. Obviously, if it's difficult for you to obtain natural gas, it's probably a good idea to opt for a different type of energy.
2. The yearly cost. Depending on where you live, the cost of electricity, gas and oil can vary. It's always a good idea to do your research before opting for a particular type of energy.

Here are a few advantages for each type of energy.
Electricity is simple. There's no need to rely on any other resource than electricity itself.
Gas is useful if you live in a place where electricity is often lacking, or if you need emergency heating. It's easy to use a gas furnace with a generator, as it uses very little current. Since electricity is often expensive in some regions, opting for another type of energy can be an interesting option.
Oil provides a very hot air to the diffusers, reaching the set point quickly. However, it is becoming increasingly rare due to subsidies and programs aimed at replacing it with something more environmentally friendly. That said, for some regions, oil remains a necessity.
 

1 stage, 2 stages or modulation.

The final step is to choose your system's operating logic. There are currently 3 main options available on the market:
 
0% - 100%, also known as 1 stage, is known as the basic system. Although very popular several years ago, it is seen less and less due to new technologies and the emergence of better-insulated homes. The fact that the unit is running at 100% or 0% often creates significant temperature fluctuations. See the fluctuation shown in orange in the graph below.
0% - 50% - 100%, also known as 2-stage, is the most popular system today. It offers a much more stable temperature than a 1-stage system, while still being able to deliver 100% power when you need it.
Modulating systems are undoubtedly the most efficient, comfortable and silent systems on the market. They are often used in new buildings with effective insulation. However, there's no reason why you can't enjoy the benefits of modulating systems in an existing home. Thanks to modulation technology, the temperature is extremely stable. Shown in blue in the graph below.
 
Dettson offers a complete modulating system. When a modulating furnace is combined with a modulating heat pump, all the benefits can be enjoyed in both summer and winter. Modulating heat pumps provide incomparable humidity and temperature control in summer. The Humidity is a huge factor when talking about comfort

Table 1 - Differences between modulation and 1-stage

Dual energy: a wise choice?

You're probably hearing this term more and more often. Dual energy is a solution that's gaining in popularity, and with good reason!
The term “Dual energy” is used when two energy options are used in the same heating system. For example, you can use electric heating in periods when electricity is less expensive, and switch to gas heating in periods of high tariffs. Or maximize the use of your heat pump and switch to a gas furnace in colder periods when the heat pump is less efficient.
While it's possible to use conventional electric heating in addition to a gas or oil furnace, the rise of highly efficient heat pumps takes dual energy to another level.
 
Here are the main advantages of dual energy system with heat pumps:
 
1- The main benefit of this type of system is for sure air conditioning in the summertime.
2- Heat pumps consume much less electricity than electric elements, for the same amount of heat.
3- Heat pumps are increasingly efficient and can be used almost year-round. Reducing the use of more expensive energy sources.
 
In conclusion, there are 3 main points to consider when choosing a central heating system. Installation cost, running cost and, above all, comfort. We hope we've shed some light on your decision and wish you a smooth installation!
 
Louis-Philippe Lebel Boulanger
HVAC Expert and Support Technician


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