🔥 The Top 3 Furnace Brands in Canada for 2025: Expert Recommendations

For Canadian homeowners, especially those in Ontario, choosing the right furnace is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your home's comfort and energy efficiency. Our winters are long and unforgiving, and a furnace that’s not up to the job can leave you cold, frustrated, and dealing with costly repairs.

After more than 20 years in the HVAC industry, working hands-on with homeowners across the GTA, Hamilton, and Kitchener-Waterloo, we’ve narrowed down the top three furnace models that deliver the best in performance, value, and reliability for 2025.

In this article, we’ll break down what makes each of these furnaces stand out—and which one is right for your home.

Why Choosing the Right Furnace Brand Matters

Not all furnaces are created equal. While AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings are important, they're not the only thing that determines how comfortable or cost-effective your home heating system will be.

Here’s what we look for when recommending a furnace:

·       Proven performance in Canadian winters

·       Long-term reliability with minimal repair issues

·       Readily available parts and support across Ontario

·       Balance between energy efficiency and cost

·       Quiet, consistent operation

The following three models stand out in all of these areas.

⭐ 1. Lennox EL297V – Best High-End Furnace

AFUE Efficiency: 97%
Type: Two-stage gas furnace with variable-speed motor

The Lennox EL297V is our top recommendation for homeowners who want premium performance, quiet operation, and energy savings—all in one package. Its variable-speed motor allows the furnace to adjust output based on your home’s heating needs in real time, reducing energy use and keeping temperatures consistent throughout every room.

The two-stage gas valve improves comfort during mild weather and kicks into high gear when temperatures drop. This helps reduce on/off cycling, a common issue in single-stage models, and leads to better humidity control and quieter operation.

Why It’s a Top Pick:

·       Whisper-quiet operation

·       Ideal for zoning and smart thermostat integration

·       Outstanding parts availability across Ontario

·       Backed by a strong brand with excellent warranties

Best for: Homeowners who want high-end comfort, consistent temperatures, and long-term peace of mind.

💡 2. York TM9Y – Best Mid-Range Furnace

AFUE Efficiency: Up to 96%
Type: Two-stage gas furnace

If you’re looking for a furnace that strikes the perfect balance between affordability and performance, the York TM9Y is an excellent choice. York is owned by Johnson Controls, a global leader in HVAC technology, and their products have a strong track record for durability and efficiency.

The TM9Y’s two-stage heating system ensures your furnace runs more efficiently on milder days and delivers the power you need when temperatures dip. This not only keeps you more comfortable—it also saves energy and reduces wear and tear on the system.

Why It’s a Top Pick:

·       Reliable performance at a fair price

·       Compact design fits most spaces

·       Backed by Johnson Controls engineering and service network

·       Excellent warranty support and easy servicing

Best for: Families and homeowners who want reliable performance and energy savings without the premium price tag.

💸 3. Tempstar / KeepRite F96VTN – Best Budget-Friendly Option

AFUE Efficiency: 96%+
Type: Variable-speed (25-speed) ECM blower motor

Don’t let the “budget-friendly” label fool you—the Tempstar (or KeepRite) F96VTN delivers serious performance at an accessible price point. Built by International Comfort Products (ICP), the same company behind Carrier and Bryant, this model benefits from premium-level engineering without the premium-level price.

Its 25-speed ECM blower motor ensures quiet, efficient operation and improved airflow. With strong parts availability across Ontario and a solid reputation for reliability, this model is a favorite for homeowners who want a step up from basic models without overspending.

Why It’s a Top Pick:

·       Strong warranty coverage

·       Solid build quality from a trusted manufacturer

·       Ideal for retrofit installations

·       Easily serviced by most HVAC contractors

Best for: Homeowners upgrading from an older unit who want high-efficiency heating on a budget.

How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Home

While all three of these furnaces are excellent choices, the right one for your home depends on:

·       Size of your home

·       Current ductwork and system design

·       Desired energy savings

·       Your budget for equipment and installation

·       Noise sensitivity and air quality preferences

We always recommend scheduling a professional in-home consultation to determine the best fit. A licensed technician can assess your home’s heating load, explain your options, and help you compare models based on your specific needs and lifestyle.

🛠️ Trust HVAC Ontario for Expert Furnace Installation and Advice

At HVAC Ontario, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners choose and install the right furnace for their home. We know what works in Ontario's climate, and we stand by the equipment we install.

We proudly serve customers across:

·       Toronto & the GTA

·       Hamilton & Niagara

·       Kitchener, Waterloo & Cambridge

·       Peterborough, Ottawa, and more

Whether you’re replacing an old furnace or installing one in a new home, our licensed technicians provide expert guidance, fast installation, and ongoing support.

📞 Ready to Upgrade Your Furnace?

Contact us today for a free in-home estimate. We’ll walk you through the options, answer your questions, and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable for years to come.

📞 Call 1-888-705-7368
📅 Or book online at hvacontario.ca