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CAUTION: Beware of Scams

Homeowners are being harassed by people knocking on their doors with misleading information about their furnace or hot water tank. These people are actually salesmen from fly-by-night operations who will say things to scare you into a sale. They’ll often say they’re from the Ontario Government, the Gas utility or the company you rent your hot water tank from. Legitimate businesses would have your proper contact information and would call you in advance for an appointment. Do not let these people into your home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled these frequently asked questions along with our expert answers to give you the information you need at your fingertips. If you have a question that isn’t here, please don’t hesitate to contact us, we would be happy to help.

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What is two-stage heating?

A two-stage furnace operates at 60% or 100% of its BTUs.  The majority of the time it operates on its lower capacity setting, which is quieter and gives you a more consistent temperature.

Will my gas furnace work in a power outage?

No, your gas furnace with only continue operating if you have a back-up generator.

How long does a CO Detector last?

A carbon monoxide detector or CO detector should be replaced 5 to 10 years, so long as you change the batteries annually.

Will my gas fireplace work in a power outage?

Yes, it will light during a power outage since it doesn’t require electricity to activate the pilot flame.

How often do I check my furnace filter?

You should check your filter monthly to ensure furnace and air conditioner are operating at proper temperature.

How often do I service my HVAC equipment or gas fireplace?

This is recommended to be serviced annually to ensure safe operation at peak efficiency, and to prevent premature component failure.

What’s the right time of year to service your furnace?

We suggest that you schedule maintenance in the summer months in case there are any required repairs. That way you are not without heat when you really need it. The fall is the busiest period for furnace service calls, resulting in longer wait times.

What type of venting is required for my furnace?

Modern, high-efficiency furnaces and fireplaces do not require a regular chimney for venting. Furnace venting is achieved with a 636 vent pipe placed through an external wall.

Is there a “best time” of the year to purchase and install a new furnace?

The best time of year to purchase and install a natural gas furnace is in the spring, summer or fall. At these times of the year, contractors are less occupied with emergency service work.

Will my new high-efficiency furnace affect my water heater choice?

It may. If you choose a high-efficiency furnace, you will need to consider the venting requirements of your choice. Ask your contractor for more information.

How often do I change the batteries in my programmable thermostat or remote control?

You should change the batteries annually. Also, remember to change the batteries in the remote control sending unit, as well as the hand held.

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Energy Saving Tips

  • Install Energy Star appliances
  • Service and maintain heating and cooling products annually
  • Manufacturers may void warranties if equipment is not cleaned and checked annually
  • Use your set back programmable thermostat
  • Keep your furnace filter clean
  • Keep all registers and grills clean and open
  • Do not put filters in registers
  • Do no use high-density filters
  • Cover your outside A/C condenser unit in the fall

Industry Links

Here are some links to areas of interest for our customers and visitors:

Office of Energy Efficiency (OEE)

The Office of Energy Efficiency, part of Natural Resources Canada, has a mandate to strengthen and grow Canada’s commitment to energy efficiency. The OEE manages programs aimed at the residential, commercial, industrial and transportation sectors and available to a range of energy users; from individual consumers to school boards, hospitals and large corporations.

Ontario Power Authority (OPA)

The Ontario Power Authority contributes to the development of a reliable and sustainable electricity system for the benefit of Ontario customers. They are also responsible for balancing the short-term and long-term needs of electricity users while developing reliable and sustainable electricity systems for their benefit.

Ontario Energy Board (OEB)

The Ontario Energy Board regulates the province’s electricity and natural gas sectors in the public interest. It envisions a healthy and efficient energy sector with informed consumers, and works towards the vision through regulatory processes that are effective, fair and transparent.

Ontario Energy Association (OEA)

The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) is the credible and trusted voice of the energy sector. They earn their reputation by being an integral and influential part of energy policy development and decision making in Ontario. The OEA takes a grassroots approach to policy development by combining evidence-based research with executive interviews and member polling. This policy foundation allows them to advocate directly with government decision makers to tackle issues of strategic importance to members.

Heating, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada (HRAC)

The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada (HRAC) is a national association representing contractor firms that sell, install and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) products and services to the Canadian market. HRAC is a division of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI), which includes manufacturers, wholesalers and other HVAC-related companies as members.

Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA)

The Ontario Home Builders’ Association is the voice of the residential building industry in Ontario. Its 4,200 member companies are involved in all facets of the new home construction and residential renovation industries.