So the next question is: do you have an energy efficient furnace in your home? If your house was built after 1990, you might have, although it may only be a mid-efficiency unit. However, most Canadian homes that were built between 1950 and 1970 have standard gas furnaces that are not energy efficient furnaces at all. Those built during the next decade were generally rated as having mid-efficiency. Since 2010, only high-efficiency furnaces have been available in Canada, so if you have a new house, you furnace will be highly efficient.

The difference between standard gas furnaces and those with high efficiency

When it comes to measuring the energy efficiency of furnaces, we need to establish what percentage of fuel used is turned into heat. This is measured as a percentage by annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). The higher the AFUE, the more energy efficient the furnace is.

Standard gas furnaces installed during the 20th century had an AFUE of about 60% – meaning that 40% of the fuel used was wasted. That is nearly half of it! Mid-efficient furnaces were an improvement, measuring between 78% and 82%. But high-efficiency furnaces need to be at very least 90% efficient, or higher. The more efficient it is, the more you will save.

High-efficiency furnaces are also a lot quieter than other types, and they have the ability to maintain a much more constant temperature.

How high-efficiency furnaces work

High-efficiency furnaces normally use a condensing process to work and they have two heat exchangers. These are able to draw sufficient heat from the combustion gases for the moisture in the gases to condense and then release as usable heat. The natural gas condensate, that must be removed to allow the heat transfer to occur, is piped out of the house. With high-efficiency furnaces, the pipe leads to a floor drain and the exhaust gases are vented out of a side wall. This means you don’t need a chimney, and there isn’t a risk of poisonous carbon monoxide leaking.

How a furnace can improve energy efficiency in your home

Since a furnace can account for as much as 60% of the energy consumed in a typical Canadian home during winter, it stands to reason that if you don’t have an energy efficient furnace you should consider making the switch. Switching to a high-efficiency furnace can save up to 35% on your heating bills. In addition it will radically reduce the gas emissions from your home and in that way help you to reduce your carbon footprint and live a greener life.

But it is also important to ensure that the furnace you install is suitable for your house. Very often furnaces produce considerably more heat than the house requires, and this in itself reduces energy efficiency.

How to assess the right size for your new high-efficiency furnace

A good heating contractor will be able to do a home heat loss calculation to help you make this decision. What the contractor will do is to assess how many BTUs (British thermal units, which is the measure of energy used) your furnace should be in relation to your house. The size is determined by what is termed a “total building envelope heat loss”. But the level of insulation in your house and its air tightness will also need to be considered. If there are places where heat is leaking out, for instance through the roof or through badly fitting window frames, these should be plugged to ensure the furnace operates to peak energy efficiency.

Before you go ahead and have a new furnace installed though, find out if you qualify for provincial and/or federal grants. Chances are you do.

Where to find a new high-efficiency furnace

You need to find both a good quality furnace and a qualified installer that will fit it for you. You could start out at the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada web site (www.hrai.ca) and ask advice from contractors. Alternatively you could look for a furnace and then find a contractor – or find a system or product from a company that does the installation and will give you all the support you need.

Two major North American companies that manufacture gas furnaces are United Technology (www.utc.com) that produce a number of brands including Carrier, Bryant, Heil, Tempstar and the Comfortmaker brands, and Goodman (www.goodmanmfg.com) that produces Janitrol and Amana. Others include Rheem (the Rudd brand), American Standard (Trane) and Lennox (from Armstrong).

Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems (www.bryant.com), an early US company, was originally founded by Mr. Charles Bryant in 1904. While they initially manufactured some of the earliest gas-fired boilers, today the brand features some of today’s most sophisticated heating systems, including both oil and high-efficiency gas furnaces.

Trane (www.trane.com) is a US company that was launched by a Norwegian plumber who invented a low-pressure heating system that he called the Trane Vapo Heating System. Then his son, Reuben, a mechanical engineer, invented a convector radiator. That was just the beginning, but way back in 1923 it gave the Trane Company a head start, and they haven’t looked back. Today Trane employs more than 29,000 people and does business in more than 100 countries. They manufacture in 29 locations worldwide. Residential furnaces are just one of the products they make – and these are amongst the world’s most energy efficient units.

At the end of the day, when you go shopping for a high-efficiency furnace, check its Canadian EnerGuide label to see how much energy the product uses. ENERGY STAR symbols will also help you make a more savvy choice.

And don’t forget the filter!

How to optimize the efficiency of your high-efficiency natural gas furnace

All furnaces have a filter and this should, in itself, improve energy efficiency. A good filter system will not only protect the furnace, it will also reduce your exposure to air-borne particles that can negatively affect your health and cause allergies. These include:

• normal household dust
• dust-type particles that result from a variety of household activities ranging from cooking and doing laundry to burning candles and smoking
• human and pet dander (which amounts to hair and skin flakes from you, your family and the animals you share your home with)
• air particles from outdoors that filter their way inside

You will, though, need to make sure that the filter you are using has the ability to competently reduce these particles. Don’t take this for granted.

It is also up to you to replace the furnace filter every couple of months. If you keep going with a dirty filter, this will reduce the flow of air and it will result in the furnace taking longer than necessary to heat your home.

It is also important to keep the furnace itself clean, well lubricated, properly adjusted and regularly maintained. If you care for it and maintain it, you will find that you will use less energy and that it will in fact cost you less to operate.

It is also good practice to lower the thermostat on your furnace to about 4 to 5 °C at night while you are sleeping or when there isn’t anyone at home.

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On-demand, or instant, water heaters are compact appliances that provide hot water exactly when needed. Unlike traditional water heaters, most models lack a storage tank, heating only the water required. Simply turn on the faucet, and hot water is instantly available—it’s that straightforward.

These units are significantly smaller than conventional water heaters, primarily because they don’t require a tank. This eliminates the need for extensive pipework, making them ideal for sinks or basins located away from typical plumbing areas, such as kitchens or bathrooms. They’re also perfect for heating hot tubs, which are often situated far from standard plumbing. Additionally, on-demand water heaters can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries, depending on your needs.

From Point-of-Use to Whole-House Solutions

Originally designed for point-of-use applications, tankless water heaters have evolved. Today, an increasing number of models can supply hot water for an entire house. While the water is still available “on demand,” it may not always be at the exact point of use, offering greater flexibility for larger households.

Basic instant water heaters use either an electric heating element or a gas burner. More advanced low-mass water heaters employ cutting-edge technology to deliver significantly higher volumes of hot water. These high-tech, typically gas-fired units feature electronic ignition and power exhaust systems. They can also connect to an external storage tank, enhancing their versatility compared to traditional models.

Advanced Technology for Efficiency

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Stiebel Eltron, available through GO Tankless (www.gotankless.com), produces leading-edge tankless water heaters popular in North America. Equipped with sensors and microprocessors, their units automatically adjust water flow, pressure, and temperature. The company claims these heaters can reduce water heating costs by up to 50%, making them an eco-friendly choice.

When a Stiebel Eltron tankless water heater is activated by turning on a faucet, the flow sensor detects water movement, triggering the heating elements. Once the faucet is turned off, the unit shuts down, immediately stopping energy consumption. Built to high German engineering standards, these heaters feature durable aluminum cases and copper heating chambers.

Bosch (www.boschhotwater.net) offers two electric tankless water heaters under the PowerStar brand, designed for North American homes. The larger model delivers 3.7 gallons per minute at 105°F, suitable for two sinks simultaneously, a shower, or a bathtub. Alternatively, it provides 3 gallons per minute at 115°F for two sinks or a dishwasher. The smaller model supplies 2.3 gallons per minute at 105°F for a shower, bathtub, or washing machine, or 2 gallons at 115°F for a sink or dishwasher. However, the smaller model is not recommended in regions where groundwater temperatures fall below 60°F, excluding most of Canada and northern U.S. states. Bosch also manufactures an Italian-designed mini-tank point-of-use water heater with a glass-lined tank.

Gas-Powered Tankless Water Heaters

Gas-fired instant water heaters typically offer higher flow rates than electric models, though not all support multiple appliances simultaneously. Installing multiple units can ensure hot water availability for tasks like showering while running a dishwasher or washing machine, often proving more cost-effective than a single unit.

However, gas-fired units with constant pilot lights can waste energy. Operating costs for pilot lights vary, so check with the manufacturer before purchasing. Some models feature intermittent ignition devices that don’t run continuously, or you can manually turn off and relight the pilot light as needed for true “instant” functionality.

Union Gas produces natural gas tankless water heaters. When a faucet is turned on, a flow switch activates the burner, rapidly heating the water to the desired temperature. Once the faucet is turned off, the unit stops heating, conserving energy.

Bosch also manufactures ENERGY STAR-certified gas tankless water heaters capable of supporting at least two hot-water appliances simultaneously. These units are larger than their electric counterparts and feature electronic ignition for efficiency.

Takagi (www.takagi.com), a well-established Japanese company in the North American market for over 15 years, produces gas-powered water heaters with water flow sensors. These sensors trigger automatic ignition, heating water through coils in a heat exchanger in a fraction of a minute. When the faucet is turned off, the unit shuts down instantly.

Energy Savings with Tankless Water Heaters

Still skeptical about tankless water heaters? The U.S. Department of Energy states: “Demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters provide hot water only as it is needed. They don’t produce the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which can save you money.”

Cost Considerations

High-quality on-demand water heaters typically cost more upfront than conventional tank storage models. However, their lower energy and operating costs make them a worthwhile long-term investment. For households seeking efficiency, versatility, and cost savings, tankless water heaters are an excellent option to consider.

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According to C3, a non-profit organization based in Alberta that is working to transform energy usage, showers account for about 22% of all the water used (both hot and cold) and as much as two-thirds of just the hot water used in the average Canadian home. A family of four that takes short, five-minute showers uses about 70,000 liters (or 15,400 gallons) of water each year. If you extend your shower to 10 minutes, you can easily double your water usage. But C3 notes that by spending between $8 and $90 (depending on the showerhead you choose), you can reduce your hot water usage by more than a third.

Choosing the Right Showerhead

There are various types of showerheads designed to save water, including low-flow showerheads and low-flow, high-pressure showerheads that don’t use the same flow restrictors as the original low-flow models. These not only reduce the amount of water used while showering but also limit the amount of energy needed to heat the water. By using less water, you’ll save both water and money.

Water-efficient showerheads generally look very similar to most ordinary showerheads, but they restrict the water flow in some way. While a regular showerhead can use up to 45 liters (10 gallons) of water per minute, even early water-saving models will use a maximum of half that amount. Today, most water-efficient showerheads have a flow rate of just 9 to 14 liters (2 to 3 gallons) of water per minute. Some newer models claim maximum flow rates of just half a gallon or about 2 to 3 liters. This shows how far technology has come in the past two decades.

However, C3 warns that you shouldn’t blindly trust claims of energy-efficient, low-flow, water-saving, or water-efficient showerheads. Always check the packaging for the specified flow rate. If no flow rate is specified, it’s better to choose another product.

Interestingly, C3 does not consider a showerhead with a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute to be water- or energy-efficient. They recommend looking for a maximum flow rate of no more than 1.5 or 1.6 gallons per minute.

One of the brands recommended by C3 is Bricor, a Californian-based company.

Some Interesting Brands

Bricor (www.bricor.com) uses a patented VACUUM flow “booster” valve for its showerheads. This technology aerates and compacts the water under pressure. As the water exits the showerhead, it expands and vibrates, creating a powerful stream at a very low flow rate—around 1.25 gallons per minute or less. This innovation helps solve low water pressure issues that typically cause weak flow. The intensity of the water flow improves shower performance, while using less hot water, which reduces both water and energy costs. Additionally, because the droplets are compacted and highly energized, the likelihood of mineral crystals forming scale is greatly reduced.

Another Californian company, Jet-Stream (www.jet-streamshowerhead.net), produces a 1.5-gallon-per-minute showerhead that uses an air chamber to create turbulence by mixing water and air. Since there is no mineral deposit buildup (for the same reasons mentioned above), the manufacturer claims the showerhead is “self-cleaning.” This product comes with a 20-year replacement warranty. Additionally, it features a patented design that maintains a constant pressure of 1.5 gallons per minute, regardless of water pressure, from 15 to 120 psi (pounds per square inch). The average water pressure in Canadian homes is about 50 psi.

Oxygenics (www.oxygenics.ca) specializes in high-performance, water- and energy-saving showerheads. Their patented technology uses the Venturi principle of fluid mechanics to increase water velocity. This makes the water flow through the showerhead faster, improving water pressure, even though less water is used. Oxygenics showerheads also inject oxygen into the water, giving your skin a rejuvenating feel.

Oxygenics offers a wide range of showerheads, all of which are guaranteed against clogging and come with a lifetime warranty. They even offer a model that works well with very low, variable water pressure. The Oxygenics X-Stream model automatically adjusts using a gravity-based, free-flowing drop system. An internal spring expands and contracts based on water pressure and velocity, making this model “the world’s first hybrid conservation shower.” Even better, the showerhead cap is adjustable, allowing you to customize the spray pattern to your liking.

Evolve has developed a patent-pending technology called ShowerStart, which they have incorporated into a new line of energy-efficient showerheads, including a “lower-flow” model. Evolve’s innovation takes human behavior into account. The company recognizes that many people waste gallons of water while waiting for their shower to heat up. With Evolve’s new design, the showerhead reduces the water flow to a trickle once the water reaches 95 °F (35 °C). You can then restart the flow when you’re ready to begin showering.

So, if you’re looking for green products for your new home, be sure to add a water-saving showerhead to your shopping list.

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This doesn’t mean we should stop flushing; on the contrary. Rather we should be more aware of the need to install water efficient toilets when we build or renovate our homes.

The thing is that toilets were not created equal – and some waste considerably more water than others.

Types of toilets and flushing systems

The water that we use to flush our toilets either comes from a cistern or sometimes it comes directly from the water supply pipe. In the early days of toilets – during the Victorian era – cisterns were positioned way above the toilet itself. A pipe connected the cistern to the loo (or toilet pan), and when the user pulled a chain attached to the cistern, a flush valve was opened. Water would then flow downwards, using the force of gravity. That is, of course, where the phrase “pull the chain” comes from, even when we are using low-level toilets with a flushing handle or buttons!

Today some old homes still have original high-level toilets, although they don’t qualify as particularly water efficient. But specialist manufacturers of Victorian-style appliances and goods produce look-alike traditional high-level toilets that are fitted with modern parts. If the cistern tank is small enough, and there is a dual-flush system, then it would probably fit the description of being “water efficient”.

Still, low-level toilets are better priced and it is this type that manufacturers have concentrated on making most water efficient. Initially the idea was to improve the flushing system so that it didn’t rely on gravity. Cisterns were still joined to the pan with a pipe, but it was (and is) a much shorter pipe. These were also the first toilets that had a flushing system that was activated by a handle.

Then close-coupled toilets were designed. Neater (because you don’t see any pipe work) and quieter (because the water doesn’t have far to flush) they were – and still are – more expensive than ordinary low-level toilets. Also, they are generally not as efficient when it comes to cleaning the pan with water from the cistern. But new technology has changed all of this.

The flushing system itself may depend on a wash-down system or a siphonic system.  The latter depends on water flowing through a U-shaped pipe that has one side longer than the other. The water is moved from one side to the other under the force of gravity. The toilet pan is emptied by means of suction and the toilet bowl is refilled with clean water.

The wash-down system, which is more usual in North America, uses the force of the flushing water to clean the toilet bowl. These have either a P-trap or an S-trap, describing the shape of the trap. Either way, they have a single trap that requires water to be flushed into the toilet bowl to remove the contents.

But how does this translate to water efficient toilets?

Water efficiency for toilets

In the early days, toilet cisterns were designed to hold a lot of water – more than 20 liters. When people began to realize how wasteful toilet cisterns were, smaller 13-liter cisterns were designed. By the mid 1990s companies were manufacturing toilets that had a water storage capacity of just 1.6 gallon or 6 liters. For those who didn’t want to, or couldn’t afford to, rip out old toilets and fit new ones, DIY articles and books told them how to reduce water capacity, for instance by putting a brick into the cistern. This effectively took up a lot of space that water would have had to fill.

At the same time, building codes were changed in both North America (specifically in the US and in Ontario) and in most parts of Europe, requiring all new homes and buildings to be fitted with 6-liter loos. These were called ultra low flush (ULF) toilets. The dual-flush toilet took water-efficiency one step further by using 6 liters of water in the cistern that can be used to flush solid waste, but (by using a second flushing mechanism) using only 3 liters to flush liquid waste.

While this technology is mandatory in several countries including Australia and Singapore, it is relatively new in North America.

Even though the installation of 6-litre toilets in new construction is not mandatory throughout Canada, many municipalities in that country have subsidized toilet replacement programs which attempt to increase the installation of water efficient toilets and reduce overall water consumption.

Research to establish which toilets are the most water efficient type

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has compared several different types of toilets in an endeavor to see which type is most water efficient and cost effective.

In a research program, they installed a total of 70 toilets:

• 56 Caroma dual-flush types,
• 14 single-flush ultra-flush made by three different manufacturers, TOTO, Niagara and Western Pottery.

Most of these toilets were installed in municipal offices, and the flush volume of the existing toilet was measured. Electronic flush counters were installed, largely to see if people found the need to flush twice (because of the 3-liter capacity). Feedback was overwhelmingly in favor of the dual-flush option. Furthermore a substantial water saving was achieved, with dual-flush saving up to 26% more water than single-flush 6-liter toilets.

The CMHC choice of toilets

Caroma (www.caromausa.com) is a leading manufacturer of dual-flush wash-down toilets, and they are seen as pioneers in the field of water conserving bathroom products. It was this Australian-based company that produced the first successful two-button dual flush system way back in the 1990s. Their 6/3 liter toilet has become a global standard – or at least a standard that many manufacturers worldwide now use to make eco friendly toilets.

As the company points out on its web site, what was special about their dual-flush toilets was the ability to use either all the water in the cistern, or half of it. Plus, they say, the technology is suitable for all the world’s sewerage systems without any need for modification.

TOTO toilets are made in the US (www.totousa.com) and the company is committed to sustainability. “If something can be reclaimed, recycled, or reused at a TOTO plant, it is.” For example, all grey water generated during the manufacturing operation is stored and reused, and all possible materials are recycled. Even imperfect, damaged china is crushed and recycled back into roadbed construction. If people that the company employs live in a town or district where recycling is not a reality, they are encouraged to take all recyclables to the TOTO plant for recycling.

Niagara is also known to be a pioneer in the world of water efficient toilets. Based in both the US and Canada, the company released a new 3 liter or 0.8 gallon passive “vacuum-assist” toilet onto the market in May 2010. Reviews heralded this as “the most water-conserving of any flush toilet on the market”. While it looks like many other toilets, the Niagara Stealth has a tank-within-a-tank that minimizes the amount of water flushed.

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The energy crisis of the 1970s sparked a revival in wood as a heating fuel, recognized as a renewable energy source when harvested from sustainable forests. Alongside this trend, fuel pellets containing wood have gained popularity. This shift has led to a growing range of modern appliances designed for heating with wood, pellets, or other biomass fuels. Some pellet appliances can even burn unconventional materials like dried cherry pits, nutshells, corn kernels, soybeans, and beet pulp.

Choosing an Energy-Efficient Heating Appliance for Your Home

Selecting a wood or multi-fuel stove requires careful consideration to ensure it is energy efficient. A common mistake is choosing a unit too large for the space, thinking bigger is better. However, an oversized appliance often burns at a low smolder to avoid overheating, which is wasteful and causes pollution. Conversely, an undersized unit won’t adequately heat the room.

Beyond size, consider the heater’s capacity to warm a specific area and its environmental impact. When shopping, ask about British Thermal Units (Btu), which indicate how much space an appliance can heat. For example, a 42,000 Btu unit heats approximately 1,300 square feet, while a 60,000 Btu unit can warm 2,000 square feet. The heater’s location and your home’s construction also affect heat distribution.

Avoiding Air Pollution

Wood burning can release harmful compounds, including organic gases and carbon monoxide. Some local authorities ban wood-burning appliances, while others require certification from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or similar bodies. Manufacturers incorporate catalytic combustors to burn combustion gases at lower temperatures, cleaning exhaust gas and generating more heat. These high-efficiency appliances are non-polluting and safer, as they reduce harmful chimney flue deposits. If you have an older appliance, consider retrofitting a catalytic damper in the flue collar.

Types of Wood-Burning Appliances

Various appliances are available for burning wood or pellets, including:

• Fireplace inserts and high-efficiency fireplaces: These enhance the efficiency of old masonry fireplaces, fitting into existing structures with a flue collar. Inserts should be as airtight as possible.
• Wood stoves: Modern catalytic stoves and inserts use wood gasification technology to burn both wood and combustible gases, improving efficiency.
• Masonry heaters: These produce more heat and less pollution, featuring a fireproof firebox lined with refractory concrete or firebricks that withstand temperatures over 2,000°F (1,093°C). They have long, twisting smoke channels but take longer to heat up compared to wood fireplaces or stoves.
• Pellet fuel appliances: Exempt from EPA smoke-testing in the USA due to their efficiency and low pollution, these can be direct-vented without a chimney. They come as freestanding stoves or fireplace inserts.

Selecting the Right Appliance

With a wide variety of wood-burning appliances available, shop around for price, style, and quality. Choose EPA-certified units that qualify for energy or biomass tax credits. Notable manufacturers include:

– United States Stove Company (www.usstove.com): Established in 1864, specializing in wood and pellet stoves.
– Kuma Stoves (https://kumastoves.com/): Producing EPA-approved wood stoves and inserts for over three decades, meeting strict Washington State standards.
– Napoleon Fireplaces (www.napoleonfireplaces.com): Offers a range of stoves and fireplaces with patented technology exceeding EPA standards. Their Timberwolf line (www.timberwolffireplaces.com) includes units approved for mobile homes.
– Osburn (www.osburn-mfg.com): Originally focused on wood stoves, now offering inserts and other heaters, serving markets from the USA to Australia.
– Regency (www.regency-fire.com): Manufactures EPA-certified wood stoves, inserts, and fireplaces eligible for US biomass tax credits.

Selecting Wood for Your Appliance

Never use wet wood. The best firewood is harvested in spring and dried through summer, with a moisture content of 20% to 25% by weight. Overly dry wood can smoke and emit gases, reducing heat and polluting the air. While all wood species produce similar heat levels, denser wood burns longer and costs more. Aspen is ideal for naturally cleaning chimneys. Pellet fuels, with 5% to 10% moisture, produce less heat when made from wood compared to agricultural waste but generate less ash.

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There are various types of hot water heaters, and different ways they are powered—by electricity, gas, oil, or solar energy. However, they all share one thing in common: the ability to heat cold water supplied by your local authority or municipality, so you can enjoy hot water on demand when you shower, bathe, or wash clothes or dishes.

While some water heaters don’t have tanks to store water, most do.

Tank Water Heaters

Tank water heaters store water in a tank and heat the water within it. There are various types (or models) that use a full range of heating sources—electricity, gas, oil, and solar power.
Generally, tank water heaters work by drawing hot water from the top of the tank while cold water refills from the bottom. When the heater is turned on, the water is continually heated. Of course, we are all much more aware of the need for energy efficiency nowadays, so we don’t leave our water heaters on all the time. More people are realizing that some water heaters are more energy-efficient than others.

Typically, an energy-efficient storage tank water heater will feature at least one of these:

• Insulation that prevents heat loss through the external walls of the tank (building the tank into a covered space and adding insulation material around it also helps),
• A superior heat exchanger capable of transferring more heat from the energy source to the water,
• Factory-installed heat traps that prevent hot water from flowing out of the tank when not needed but allow water to flow into the tank.

Additional design features that make gas-fired storage tank water heaters more energy-efficient include:

• Electronic ignition instead of an old-fashioned pilot light that stays on continuously, using energy (albeit little),
• A powered exhaust system,
• A mechanism that controls and reduces heat loss through the flue vent,
• Condensing heat exchangers, which are much more efficient than other types.

New technology in oil-fired water heaters also includes high-tech burners that improve energy efficiency.

Uniongas manufactures natural gas tank water heaters with three different venting options:

• Direct vents, which don’t require a chimney,
• Power vents, which don’t need a chimney but use an electrically powered fan,
• Conventional vents, which require a chimney.

Solar water heaters also use tanks, but the water may be heated in a collector, or a special liquid in the collector may transfer heat to the tank. Because weather conditions affect the efficiency of solar water heaters in heating water, they are often paired with an electric element that kicks in when necessary—especially in winter.

Instant Water Heaters

Instant water heaters don’t have tanks and only heat water when it is needed. They are typically small appliances installed to provide instant hot water from a sink or basin that isn’t connected to a regular tank water heater.
The most basic type of instant water heater uses either an electric element or a gas burner. Low-mass water heaters use more advanced technology and are capable of supplying more hot water than traditional instant water heaters. These are usually gas-fired and feature both electronic ignition and a powered exhaust system. They can be connected to an external storage tank if needed.

Stiebel Eltron from GO Tankless (www.gotankless.com) is a popular brand of electric tankless water heaters in North America. Their main claim to fame is advanced flow control technology, which automatically adjusts the water flow rate.

Uniongas also manufactures natural gas tankless water heaters.

Energy-Efficient Water Heaters

When selecting a hot water heater, it makes sense to choose one that is energy-efficient.
In Canada, the efficiency of electric tank water heaters is measured by what is called either “standby loss” or “rating watts loss.” While low standby loss models are clearly the most energy-efficient, it’s also important to choose a heater that meets the needs of your family. If you select one that is larger than necessary (in terms of water volume), it will result in unnecessary energy costs.

Be aware that an energy-efficient electric water heater will typically cost more than one with lower efficiency, but the quality will be better, and you’ll benefit from improved warranties.

The efficiency of gas, propane, and oil-fired water heaters is measured by an “energy factor.” High energy factors indicate the most efficient models, whether tank or tankless. When selecting a gas tank water heater, be mindful that oversized tanks can also lead to inefficiency.

Rheem (www.rheem.com) manufactures a wide range of water heaters, including instant electric or “point-of-use” models, heat pump water heaters, and both gas tank and tankless water heaters for homes.

The US Bradford White Corporation (www.bradfordwhite.com) offers a comprehensive selection of products, including natural and propane-fired gas water heaters, oil-fired water heaters, electric water heaters, indirect water heaters, and solar water systems. Laars Heating System Company (www.laars.com) manufactures gas-fired boilers and volume water heaters. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bradford White.

A.O. Smith Corporation (www.hotwater.com), headquartered in Wisconsin, designs and manufactures two brands of hot water heaters—GSW and John Wood (www.gsw-wh.com). GSW offers both gas and electric models, while John Wood, which is only available to installers, specializes in energy efficiency and offers ENERGY STAR-rated products.

In many countries, tax rebates and other incentives encourage people to install solar and other energy-efficient hot water heaters.

In British Columbia and Ontario, homeowners are eligible for tax-free government grants when they install gas or solar water heaters, or an electric heat pump water heater.

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But that’s not all. While air conditioning units are designed to make the interior of our homes more comfortable, they also dehumidify the air and remove unwanted particles and dust. In short, this makes the air we breathe healthier.

If you’re shopping for a new air conditioner, it’s best to look for one that is not only energy-efficient but also meets other important environmental guidelines.

A great place to start is by looking for units that meet ENERGY STAR requirements.

About ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a program established as a joint venture between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. The program’s goal is to reduce costs while protecting the environment by promoting energy-efficient products. It also aims to educate people on the benefits of adopting energy-efficient practices.

According to ENERGY STAR, their efforts helped Americans save nearly $18 billion on utility bills in 2010. They also announced that in 2010, Americans managed to avoid producing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to what 33 million cars would have emitted. When you consider the efforts of Canadians and others worldwide, you begin to see the significant impact that collective actions can have.

By purchasing household products, including air conditioners, that are ENERGY STAR endorsed, you can save money. To earn the ENERGY STAR label, products must meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.

ENERGY STAR Products

While you can find ENERGY STAR labels on products, it’s helpful to start with specific recommendations. Here are some pointers:

• Trane offers both cool and warm air that is clean. This American company (www.trane.com) provides a broad range of HVAC systems that will heat, ventilate, dehumidify, and condition the air in your home or business. They also sell products under the American Standard brand.
• General Electric (GE) (GE Appliances – ENERGY STAR) offers a variety of ENERGY STAR air conditioners designed for installation in walls or windows. These units feature high-efficiency compressors, heat transfer surfaces, and fan motors to help reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs.
• Lennox (Lennox Air Conditioners) manufactures ENERGY STAR air conditioners, including models that are solar-ready. Efficiency ratings vary by model.
• Sharp (Sharp USA) also produces air conditioners that meet ENERGY STAR requirements.

And there are many more!

Other Products with Energy Efficiency Ratings

LG products (www.lg.com) carry the Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), which shows you how energy-efficient specific air conditioners are. The higher the rating, the lower the unit’s operating costs. EER indicates how many British Thermal Units (BTUs)—a unit of energy needed to raise temperature—are required each hour to draw one watt of electric power. It’s a technical rating that measures the unit’s cooling performance at peak efficiency.

The higher the EER, the more efficient the air conditioner.

Heating and Cooling Efficiently

While it’s important to look for ENERGY STAR endorsed air conditioners, there are other steps you can take to ensure your system operates efficiently. Regular maintenance is key, just like you would service your vehicle. Be sure to service your air conditioner regularly.

One essential task is checking the filter monthly, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter. If the filter looks dirty, replace it immediately. Most filters need to be changed two to four times a year (every three months or so), although some brands—like LG—claim their filters don’t need to be replaced if kept clean. If the filter is dirty, it can slow down airflow, causing the system to work harder and use more power. A clean filter helps prevent dirt, dust, and other pollutants from entering the system, which keeps it running efficiently and can prevent early system failure.

ENERGY STAR also recommends installing a programmable thermostat, especially for those who are away from home for extended periods. According to the agency, using a programmable thermostat can save up to $180 annually in energy costs.

Another way to improve efficiency is by sealing heating and cooling ducts. These ducts, which transport air to and from heat pumps, air furnaces, and central air conditioners, often waste energy. Sealing ducts properly can save as much as 20% on energy costs. Start by sealing ducts in attics, unheated basements, and garages. After sealing, add good insulation to ensure the system doesn’t lose heat in winter or gain heat in summer.

Finally, remember that bigger is not always better. If you buy an air conditioner that’s too large for the area you need to cool or heat, it will likely waste energy and may be less effective at maintaining the desired temperature.

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When choosing between wood and gas fireplaces, there are several factors to consider.

Most companies that supply fireplaces offer a variety of options not only for fuel type but also in terms of design and appearance. They may offer built-in or freestanding models, whether they are gas or wood-fueled.

Other Factors to Consider

• The intensity of heat the fireplace will produce
• The emissions generated by the fuel

Freestanding Fireplaces

Freestanding fireplaces are typically manufactured as stoves. Popular manufacturers include Pacific Energy, HearthStone, and Jøtul.
Pacific Energy (www.pacificenergy.net) is a Canadian company offering both gas and wood options. Their flagship products include traditional-style, glass-fronted wood stoves made from enameled porcelain fused to steel. They also produce Alderlea cast iron stoves, True North wood stoves (which have a more basic, straightforward design), and Warmland pellet stoves.

HearthStone (www.hearthstonestoves.com) is a North American company providing both gas and wood models. Their freestanding designs range from traditional stoves with shaped feet to clean-lined, contemporary models. They also manufacture pellet-burning stoves made from sawdust, chips, and bark—by-products of the milling process—as well as the modern EuroCollection range.

Jøtul (jotul.com) has been crafting cast iron fireplaces since the mid-19th century. The Norwegian company offers both traditional and contemporary designs. Jøtul products are available in Canada through Northwest Stoves (www.northweststoves.ca), the exclusive distributor for Jøtul, HearthStone, Pacific Energy, RSF Energy, Kingsman, and Scan (a Danish manufacturer) in British Columbia, Alberta, and the Yukon.

RSF Energy (https://www.icc-rsf.com/en/) manufactures open hearth fireplaces that use 21st-century “clean burning technology.” The company also produces innovative venting products, including ICC chimneys, for both gas and wood-burning fireplaces. These chimneys are tight-fitting and easy to assemble.

Built-In Fireplaces

Many companies that produce freestanding stoves also manufacture inserts that can be built into a wall or chimney base. These inserts can be powered by either wood or gas.
Pacific Energy, for example, specializes in wood-burning inserts, while both HearthStone and Jøtul offer fireplaces that use either gas or wood.

If you live in an older home with a blocked-up fireplace, you may even consider unblocking it and installing an energy-efficient insert that burns wood or gas.

One advantage of a built-in fireplace is that it becomes an architectural feature rather than just a heating appliance—especially if you incorporate a mantelpiece.

Maintenance and Fuel Costs

There are other important factors to consider when comparing wood and gas fireplaces.
If maintenance and cleaning are concerns, you may prefer a gas fireplace or stove over one fueled by wood. Gas is undoubtedly cleaner, but it tends to be more expensive than wood.

Another advantage of natural gas is that it doesn’t require storage space, whereas wood can take up a significant amount of room.

Heat Intensity

The heat output of a fireplace, stove, or furnace is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs).
Wood has a higher BTU capacity than gas, making it a good choice for heating. However, gas fireplaces and stoves are often thermostatically controlled, allowing you to adjust the heat intensity. Some gas units even come with remote controls, so you can adjust the temperature without moving.

The Eco Factor

Some fireplaces are more environmentally friendly than others. Factors to consider include how economical and clean-burning the fireplace is, as well as its efficiency rating.
According to the Wood Heat Policy Institute (WHPI), a group funded by North American wood stove manufacturers, “firewood is a renewable energy source like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.”

As long as you use wood from renewable forests, firewood is considered a green energy resource. When you burn wood, it doesn’t have the same environmental impact as fossil fuels—oil, gas, and coal. Fossil fuels release carbon that was buried millions of years ago, which, when oxidized, forms CO₂ (carbon dioxide), a significant greenhouse gas. Although burning wood also releases carbon, the environmental impact is much less significant because trees absorb CO₂ as they grow. In fact, when trees die and decompose, they release the same amount of carbon they would if burned.

The process of decomposition results in slow oxidation, while combustion in a wood-burning stove results in fast oxidation, with heat as the main by-product.

“Trees can be thought of as big batteries,” says WHPI director John Gulland. “They take energy from the sun and store it in the wood. Burning wood converts that stored energy into heat.”

The Institute’s argument centers on modern wood stoves and fireplaces that are airtight, unlike older models that wasted wood and created excess smoke and pollution. Stoves manufactured by companies like Pacific Energy, for example, generate only about 10% of the smoke pollution and use less than a third of the wood compared to older models.

As HearthStone points out: “Environmental concerns and strict EPA regulations have helped wood stoves really come into their own.”

EPA-certified stoves must burn 72% to 82% more cleanly than older models to earn certification. As a result, the reputation of wood as a “dirty fuel” is no longer valid.

However, not everyone agrees. Recently, a new bylaw was introduced in Hampstead, a suburb of Montreal, Quebec, banning the installation of new wood stoves, fireplace inserts, and any appliances that burn wood or wood pellets. Existing units are safe for now but must be removed by November 3, 2015. The reasoning behind this ban is that wood stoves contribute to environmental pollution and smog. Other local authorities have not yet followed suit, as they believe the ban may be unenforceable or unreasonable. But if you live in Hampstead, you’ll need to opt for gas, regardless of the ongoing debate over wood versus gas fireplaces.

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