Toronto’s cold climate means that space heating accounts for up to 61% of the energy used in the average Toronto home.

Boilers use gas or oil to provide space heating and hot water to your home. Boilers distribute heat using radiators or in-floor radiant heating, eliminating the need for pre-existing duct systems.

What to Look For

• Gas and oil boilers are subject to Canada’s Energy Efficiency Regulations, which sets minimum performance standards for their energy efficiency. All boilers sold in Canada are energy efficient.
• Check the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, the minimum should be between 82 and 84 per cent.
• Replacing your oil boiler? Consider switching to a natural gas boiler which tends to produce less waste and fewer harmful emissions.

Things to Consider

• Insulate the hot water pipes.
• Empty or “bleed” the air from the radiators once or twice a year so that they can fill fully with water.
• Vacuum the radiators to prevent dirt and dust from building up.
• Ensure that the level of water in the expansion tank is correct.
• Before you replace your boiler, get an EnerGuide home energy evaluation, which can help you understand how your home currently uses energy.
• Check with your municipality, utility or retailer to see if there are any rebates on boilers available.
• Consider the City of Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) as a way to finance your high-efficiency boiler.

Cost

$3,000 to $8,000

Source: Natural Resources Canada