Month: March 2023

Heating systems are an essential part of any home, especially during the cold winter months. A comfortable and warm indoor environment can be achieved by maintaining and repairing your heating system. However, if your heating system is not functioning correctly, it can lead to discomfort, higher energy bills, and even dangerous situations. 

Read on as we discuss everything you need to know about heating repairs.

The Types of Heating Systems Today

There are various types of heating systems, and each one requires different maintenance and repairs. Here are some of the most common types of heating systems today:

Furnaces

Furnaces are the most common type of heating system. They use natural gas, oil, or electricity to heat air, which is then distributed throughout the house via ducts.

Boilers

Boilers heat water, which is then distributed throughout the house via radiators or baseboard heaters.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps use electricity to move heat from one area to another. They can provide both heating and cooling.

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Ductless mini-split systems are similar to heat pumps but do not require ducts. They consist of an outdoor unit that is connected to one or more indoor units.

The Common Issues That Call for Heating Repairs

Heating systems can experience various issues, and some of the most common heating repairs include:

Dirty or Clogged Filters

Dirty or clogged filters can reduce airflow and cause your heating system to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear on your system.

Thermostat Issues

Thermostat issues can cause your heating system to turn on and off frequently or not turn on at all. This can be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat, loose wiring, or other issues.

Ignition Problems

Ignition problems can prevent your furnace or boiler from turning on. This can be caused by a faulty ignition switch, a clogged burner, or other issues.

Blower Motor Issues

Blower motor issues can prevent your heating system from distributing warm air throughout your home. This can be caused by a faulty blower motor, loose wiring, or other issues.

Pilot Light Problems

Pilot light problems can prevent your furnace or boiler from turning on. This can be caused by a dirty pilot light, a faulty thermocouple, or other issues.

The Signs for When to Call a Professional

While some heating repairs can be done by homeowners, others require the expertise of a professional. Here are some signs that you should call a professional for heating repairs:

Unusual Noises

Unusual noises, such as banging or rattling, can indicate a serious problem with your heating system. These noises can be caused by loose or broken parts, so it’s important to call a professional as soon as possible.

Foul Smells

Foul smells, such as the smell of gas, can indicate a dangerous situation. If you smell gas, turn off your heating system immediately and call a professional.

Inconsistent Temperatures

If some areas of your home are warmer or cooler than others, this can indicate a problem with your heating system. A professional can diagnose and repair the issue.

Spiking Energy Bills

If your energy bills have increased without explanation, this can indicate that your heating system is not functioning efficiently. A professional can diagnose and repair the issue, which can save you money in the long run.

4 Things You Should Do for Preventative Maintenance 

Preventative maintenance can help you avoid costly heating repairs and ensure that your heating system is functioning efficiently. Here are four things you should do for preventative maintenance:

1. Change your air filters regularly.
2. Schedule annual maintenance with a professional.
3. Keep your heating system clean and free of debris.
4. Use a programmable thermostat to control your system’s temperature.

Conclusion

Heating repairs are an essential part of maintaining a comfortable and safe indoor environment. By understanding the common types of heating systems, common repairs, when to call a professional, and preventative maintenance, you can keep your heating system functioning efficiently and avoid costly repairs. It is also worth noting that regular maintenance and repairs can save you money in the long run and ensure that your home is warm and comfortable during the cold winter months.

Are you in need of home heating services in Oshawa? Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is a company of professionals that can handle all your HVAC needs. Contact us today!

Furnaces are essential in keeping our homes warm and comfortable throughout the cold winter months. However, they are also prone to various issues over time that requires regular maintenance and repairs. Knowing the most common types of repairs can help you better prepare for the unexpected and keep your furnace in top shape for years to come.

Here are three of the most common furnace repairs that every owner should know about:

1. Regular Wear and Tear

Just like any other machine, furnaces can experience wear and tear over time. This may include corrosion, faulty parts, and even clogged filters. To avoid any unexpected breakdowns, it’s important to have a maintenance plan in place so that you can catch any potential problems early on.

2. Gas Leaks

Gas leaks can happen over time, and they can be very dangerous. If you suspect a gas leak, it’s important to contact a professional right away to ensure your family’s safety.

3. Pilot Light and Ignition

The pilot light and ignition system can malfunction over time and require repairs. This can cause your furnace to not work correctly or even shut down completely. If you notice that your furnace is having issues with lighting, it’s essential to have this issue looked at right away.

4. Blocked Air Filters

The filter in your furnace is responsible for trapping dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the air in your home. Over time, the filter can become clogged, which can reduce airflow and cause your furnace to work harder to heat your home. To prevent this from happening, it is important to check and clean or replace your furnace filter regularly. 

5. Thermostat

The thermostat allows you to control the temperature of your home, ensuring that it stays comfortable and energy efficient.

If your thermostat is not working properly, it can cause your furnace to not heat your home correctly. This can cause your energy bills to increase and can also lead to more severe damage to your furnace. If you notice that your thermostat is not working properly, it is important to replace it as soon as possible. 

6. Blower Motor

This repair is necessary when the blower motor is not functioning properly. It can be caused by several factors, including a worn-out motor, a dirty filter, or a clogged air duct. If you’re experiencing issues with your blower motor, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

7. Heat Exchanger Problems

If your heat exchanger is not working correctly, it can cause your furnace to not heat up properly. This is usually caused by a faulty heat exchanger or wiring connection. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the faulty part.

8. Ignition

If your furnace is not igniting correctly, it can cause your furnace to shut off or not heat up properly. This is usually caused by a faulty igniter or a faulty gas valve. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the faulty part.

Final Thoughts

These are the most common types of furnace repairs every owner should be aware of. If you’re having any issues with your furnace, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose and fix them. It’s important to always use caution when working with any electric or gas appliance.

If you need furnace repair in Oshawa, let our team at Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning help you. We are a locally owned and operated HVAC company with experts in inspection, repair, and installation of HVAC systems. Message us today for a free quote.

Are you hearing strange rumbles coming from your furnace? What could it mean? After all, the heater is critical in keeping your home warm and comfortable in the winter months.

Fortunately, there are a few potential causes for a rumbling furnace. By understanding the common causes, you can take the proper steps to ensure your safety and your household before calling for professional furnace repair. Below are the common reasons for heater noises:

Bangs and Booms at the Start of the Cycle

If you have recently switched on your heater and heard an unexpected bang or boom, it could mean you have a defective ignitor. An ignitor is a small device that helps to start up the combustion process in your heater, and when it is not working correctly, it can cause a loud noise. 

In some cases, a defective ignitor can also cause the flame in your heater to be unstable or to flicker. In other cases, the ignitor may not be producing enough heat to kickstart the combustion process, which can cause the heater not to start up at all. 

To ensure the safety of your home and family, contact a reputable technician as soon as possible. A qualified technician can diagnose and repair the problem quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your heater runs safely and optimally.

Sometimes, the loud bang or boom you hear may be caused by a simple issue, such as a dirty air filter or clogged ducts. In this case, the technician can easily clean or replace the filter or vents, and the issue will be resolved.

Intermittent Banging and Booming

Ensuring your home’s heating system is optimally functioning is essential as winter approaches. It should be addressed if you hear intermittent banging and booming from your heater. The noise is likely an indication that something is wrong, and it is best to have it examined by a professional furnace repair technician. 

Your heater is a complex system with many moving parts that must be in sync to operate correctly. Attempting to self-diagnose the issue and meddle with the components can be dangerous and potentially cause further damage. Accredited technicians have the knowledge and experience to determine if this is a ductwork issue and make the necessary repairs. 

The most important reason to call a professional is to avoid costly repairs in the future. If the underlying problem is not addressed, it can lead to more severe issues requiring more expensive repairs. It is also crucial to note that some heater repair tasks require special safety equipment and tools that may not be available to the average homeowner. 

High-Pitched Squeal

If you hear a high-pitched squealing from your heater, it is likely a sign of an airflow issue. It often indicates that the air filter needs to be changed or that the blower motor may need to be serviced. 

Cleaning the air filter is an easy and effective way to get rid of that annoying squealing noise and improve your furnace’s efficiency. This solution is a simple process that only takes a few minutes. However, if this will not fix the problem, you must call a professional furnace repair technician.

Conclusion

It is essential to leave furnace repairs to qualified technicians. They are equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the job and are also aware of the risks involved. They can ensure the safety of your family and property. Moreover, attempting a DIY repair can be expensive and time-consuming and may even cost you more money in the long run. 

If you need a technician who offers furnace repair in Oshawa, you have to turn to Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning. We will efficiently and safely fix the root cause of the problem so that you and your loved ones remain comfortable and safe. If you hear any of the telltale signs, contact us right away!

Winter is a magical time of year, with the snow, the holidays, and the cozy feeling of being inside when the temperatures drop. But when the cold temperatures hit, having your HVAC stop working can quickly turn that comfortable feeling into a cold, uncomfortable nightmare.

Unfortunately, the potential for HVAC problems increases in cold weather. However, if you have scheduled HVAC maintenance services, you can avoid the following issues:

Frozen Pipes 

Winter can be a trying time for homeowners. Not only does the cold weather mean higher heating bills, but it can also cause several problems with your HVAC system. Frozen pipes are one of the most common issues homeowners face during the winter.

Frozen pipes can be a major issue, preventing hot water from flowing through the system. It can lead to a broken-down HVAC system, a nightmare for any homeowner. Not only will they have to pay for costly repairs, but they will also have to deal with a home that is too cold to be comfortable.

Fortunately, homeowners can take a few steps to prevent frozen pipes from ruining their HVAC system. Below are some tips from leading HVAC maintenance services in Oshawa:

• Ensure that all pipes are adequately insulated. It will help keep the lines from freezing, even in the coldest weather.
• Additionally, homeowners should ensure that their HVAC system is properly serviced and maintained during winter. Doing this will help ensure the system is functioning correctly and can help prevent any unexpected breakdowns.
• Finally, homeowners should also be aware of any signs of frozen pipes. If there is a drop in the water pressure or cold air from the vents, the lines might be frozen. If this happens, it is essential to call a professional as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the HVAC system.

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless environmental gas. It is also one of the most dangerous gases that can be found in the home. Carbon monoxide gas leaks can be an imminent danger for homes with heating systems in place.

Carbon monoxide is formed when carbon-based fuels, such as natural gas, propane, oil, kerosene, and wood, do not burn completely. It can build up in enclosed spaces, such as the home, and reach hazardous levels. It is odourless and tasteless, so it cannot be detected without special equipment.

It is essential to ensure that all fuel-burning appliances, such as furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces, are adequately maintained to prevent carbon monoxide gas leaks in your home. It is also essential to use fuel-burning appliances only in well-ventilated areas. You should install a carbon monoxide detector in your home and regularly check to ensure it works correctly.

You must know the dangers of carbon monoxide gas leaks in your home. It is a silent killer that can be prevented with the proper steps. Properly maintain your fuel-burning appliances and install a carbon monoxide detector to keep your home safe.

Pilot Light Problems

One of the most common problems homeowners face is pilot light problems. Fortunately, scheduling regular HVAC maintenance services can easily prevent these issues.

Regular HVAC maintenance can prevent pilot light issues by ensuring that the components of your HVAC system are working correctly and that the system is running efficiently. During a maintenance service, a technician will check the pilot light and all of your HVAC system’s other components to ensure they are functioning correctly. It can help to identify any potential problems before they become more serious.

Conclusion

Scheduled HVAC maintenance services are critical to keeping a home’s HVAC system running at its best. Regular maintenance can help prevent severe problems and save homeowners from costly repairs or replacements. With regular maintenance, homeowners can enjoy improved energy efficiency, fewer repairs, and a system that runs more reliably and lasts longer. 

If you are looking for a reputable HVAC technician, you must turn to Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning. Prevention is better than cure, so we offer top-notch HVAC maintenance services to Oshawa residents. With us on the job, you will remain comfortable all year long. Schedule maintenance for your HVAC now!

When it comes to furnace repair, there are a few things you should expect to ensure the process goes smoothly. Knowing what to anticipate when you call in a professional can help you stay on top of the project and ensure that the repairs are done correctly and safely. 

Here are ten things to expect from a furnace repair project handled by a professional.

1. Professional Assessment

When you call a professional for a furnace repair, they will usually come to your home to assess the situation. This will involve examining the furnace, checking for any signs of wear and tear, and determining necessary repairs. The professional will also check for any underlying problems that may be causing the furnace to malfunction.

2. Cost Estimates

After the assessment, the professional will provide a repair cost estimate. This will include the cost of materials, labour, and any other associated costs. Make sure to ask any questions to make an informed decision.

3. Parts and Materials

The professional will likely need to order parts and materials to complete the repair. Depending on the type of repair and the availability of the parts, it may take several days or weeks for the parts to arrive. Ask the professional about the expected wait time for the parts and materials.

4. Replacement Parts

Sometimes, the professional may need to replace some furnace parts. Make sure to ask about the availability of the replacement parts and the cost associated with the replacement.

5. Safety Procedures

The professional will likely follow safety procedures to ensure the repairs are done safely and correctly. This may include turning off the power to the furnace before beginning the repair, using safety equipment and clothing, and using the proper tools for the job.

6. Testing and Clean-up

After the repairs are complete, the professional will usually test the furnace to ensure it functions correctly. They may also perform some cleaning to ensure the stove is dust or debris-free.

7. Warranty

The professional will likely provide a repair warranty. This will ensure that you will be covered if any problems occur in the future. Be sure to inquire about the warranty and read it thoroughly before signing.

8. Troubleshooting

If the technician discovers potential problems with your furnace, they will troubleshoot them and ensure they function correctly.

9. Final Check

The technician will perform a final check to ensure your furnace runs correctly.

10. Maintenance Tips

Finally, the technician should provide advice and tips to help keep your furnace in good working order. This may include changing the filter regularly, scheduling annual maintenance, and checking for potential problems.

Conclusion

By understanding what to expect during a furnace repair project, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible service. Make sure to ask your technician any questions and keep an eye out for any potential problems. With the right technician, you can have your furnace up and running again quickly.

Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is a locally owned and operated HVAC company in the Durham Region. We specialize in HVAC services such as inspections, repairs, installations, and recommendations. Our range of services covers the Durham Region, from Oshawa to Cobourg. With our experienced team and excellent customer service, Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is the perfect choice for all your HVAC needs. Contact us today for any questions or to book an appointment for our furnace repair in Oshawa!