What is a Furnace?

Having your equipment serviced once a year is ideal—especially before winter hits! 

That yearly checkup keeps your furnace efficient, helps you catch small issues early, and reduces the chance of mid-winter breakdowns. Think of it like a “wellness check” for your heating system; it’ll save you from more costly repairs down the line. 

At Offset Ontario, we recommend an annual service plan, which helps keep everything running smoothly and ready for Ontario’s cold season.

 Here are some major clues homeowners should watch for:

• Unusual noises (think banging or rattling).
• Uneven heating (rooms that stay chilly).
• High energy bills with no other explanation.

If you notice any of these, it’s best to call in a professional to check it out before it turns into a bigger issue. 

At Offset Ontario, we’re on call to help you troubleshoot quickly. Catching issues early can really make a difference!

Most furnaces last 15-20 years if you’re keeping up with maintenance. If it’s an older unit, frequent repairs or rising energy bills might mean it’s time for an upgrade. Newer, high-efficiency models don’t just save you on bills—they’re better for the environment, too. 

Right now, there’s an Enbridge rebate of up to $3,000 for energy-efficient Heat pump upgrades, but it ends in December 2024. So, if your furnace is nearing retirement age it’s a great time to consider an upgrade! 

 The most common reasons are:

• The thermostat might be set to “on” instead of “auto,” so it’s blowing constantly, even when it’s not heating.
• A clogged air filter can cause overheating, which can trigger a safety shutdown.
• The pilot light (for gas furnaces) might be out.

If you’ve checked these and it’s still blowing cold, it’s best to have a technician take a look. Offset Ontario’s team has seen this before and can help get things back to warm and cozy in no time.

During a service, technicians go over key parts to ensure everything is working well:

• Burner and heat exchanger: Checked for cracks and cleaned to avoid carbon monoxide leaks.
• Blower motor and fan: Ensured to be running smoothly, with parts lubricated if needed.
• Thermostat: Calibrated for accuracy.
• Electrical components: Inspected for wear, with wires tightened as needed.

These steps keep your furnace running efficiently and safely. At Offset Ontario, we do a full tune-up to keep things running smoothly all season long. Call on +1-888-707-4191 for inquiry or just fill out this.

If your furnace is older, a high-efficiency furnace is definitely worth considering. These units have a higher AFUE rating (90% or more), meaning they convert almost all the fuel they use into heat, which can make a big difference in your energy bills. 

Plus, with the Enbridge rebate available until December 2024, you could save up to $3,000 on your upgrade to a Heat pump. The combination of energy savings and rebates makes it a great choice if you’re thinking long-term.

Humidity might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference! Dry air can make your home feel colder than it actually is, prompting you to turn up the heat and use more energy. Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels (typically between 30-50%), can make your home feel warmer and reduce the strain on your furnace.

Installing a humidifier as part of your furnace system can improve comfort, lower energy bills, and even extend the lifespan of your furnace by reducing the need for overwork. 

Good question. 

If your furnace is over 15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or your energy bills keep climbing, replacement might be the better choice. 

Not only do new furnaces operate more efficiently, but you also avoid the hassle of constant repairs. 

Offset Ontario offers free consultations to help decide what makes the most sense for your home and budget.

A cracked heat exchanger is no small issue—it can lead to carbon monoxide (CO) leaks, which is both dangerous and deadly if undetected.

CO is odourless and invisible, making it essential to have a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace. 

Common warning signs are Black Soot Buildup around the furnace, a yellow burner flame, or frequent pilot light issues. If you suspect a crack, turn off the furnace immediately and contact a professional. 

Regular maintenance, including annual furnace inspections, can help identify and fix these issues early, ensuring both safety and efficiency. Our team at Offset Ontario can help assess and address this kind of issue safely.

You can handle some basic maintenance tasks like:

• Replacing the air filter every 1-3 months.
• Checking thermostat settings.
• Listening for unusual noises.

For in-depth assessments such as checking the heat exchanger or cleaning the burner, leave it to the professionals. An annual professional checkup keeps everything safe and efficient, and Offset Ontario offers yearly tune-ups to make this easy and affordable.