Ductless Mini-Split vs Central Air: Which Is Better?
Why Proper Kitchen Ventilation Matters Cooking produces a lot more than delicious aromas. It generates heat, smoke, moisture, and airborne grease. Without effective ventilation, these byproducts linger, contributing to: Poor indoor air quality Excess humidity and mold growth Stains on walls and ceilings Overworked HVAC systems A well-designed vent hood HVAC kitchen setup extracts contaminants […]
Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters in Cold Climates
A Cozy Kitchen’s Secret Ingredient: Ventilation It might surprise you to know that kitchens are one of the most dynamic areas in your home when it comes to airflow. Every time you cook, especially at high heat, you generate moisture, grease particles, and odors that can linger long after the meal is over. Without proper […]
Is a Ductless Mini-Split System Worth It in Canada?
Why Ventilation Matters in Canadian Kitchens Canada’s weather doesn’t leave much room for error—especially in winter. Kitchens are hotspots for heat, moisture, and indoor pollutants. Boiling pasta, frying bacon, or running the dishwasher all generate steam, grease particles, and sometimes even carbon monoxide (if using gas stoves). Without proper ventilation, you risk: Lingering odors and […]
Installing a Fireplace Insert vs. a Standalone HVAC System
Heating Capacity: Room vs Whole-Home Comfort Fireplace Insert Fireplace inserts are heating units installed directly into an existing fireplace. They are available in wood-burning, gas, or electric options and are ideal for zone heating, meaning they are best suited for heating a single room or a localized area. Pros: Highly efficient for small-to-medium spaces Excellent […]
Boiler vs. Tankless Water Heater: Which Is Best for Heating?
1. Installation: Complexity and Costs Boiler Installation Boilers require a more complex installation process, especially if replacing a traditional heating system. Installation costs vary but typically range from $3,500 to $8,000, depending on the system type (combi, system, or conventional boiler). Boilers require connection to radiators or underfloor heating systems, adding to the installation expense. […]
Understanding Geothermal Loop Systems: Vertical vs. Horizontal
How Geothermal Loop Systems Work Both vertical and horizontal geothermal loop systems function on the same principle: they use a series of pipes to transfer heat between the ground and a heat pump. In winter, heat is extracted from the earth and transferred into the building. In summer, excess heat is removed from the building […]
Pros & Cons of HRV vs. ERV Systems
What Are HRV and ERV Systems? Both HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilators) and ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilators) are designed to improve indoor air quality by exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. However, their mechanisms and benefits differ: HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator): Transfers only heat between incoming and outgoing air, reducing heating or cooling losses. […]
Choosing Between Single-Stage, Two-Stage & Variable-Speed HVAC
Understanding Single vs. Two-Stage vs. Variable-Speed HVAC Systems Single-Stage HVAC Systems A single-stage HVAC system operates at full capacity whenever it is running. It turns on when the temperature deviates from the set point and turns off once the desired temperature is reached. Pros: Lower initial cost compared to other systems Simple operation with fewer […]
Comparing Radiant Floor Heating to Baseboard Heating
Efficiency: Energy Consumption and Cost Radiant Floor Heating Radiant floor heating is known for its high efficiency. It operates by warming the floor directly, which then radiates heat evenly throughout the space. Because heat rises naturally, less energy is wasted, and homeowners experience consistent warmth at lower thermostat settings. Hydronic (water-based) systems are the most […]
Hydronic Heating vs Forced Air: Key Differences for Canadian Homes
Hydronic Heating Hydronic heating systems utilize water to distribute heat throughout a home. This is typically achieved by circulating heated water through a network of pipes installed beneath floors, within walls, or via radiators. The heat from the water radiates into the living spaces, providing consistent warmth. Pros: Energy Efficiency: Water is a superior medium […]
