Author: Fortis Heating & Cooling

Maintaining your home’s furnace is essential to keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient. A well-maintained furnace can save you money on energy bills, reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and ensure your home is heated evenly and safely.

Regular maintenance and inspections can help you ensure that your furnace is operating correctly and efficiently and can save you money on costly repairs or replacements down the line. Investing in regular furnace maintenance can ensure that your home’s furnace is running optimally and that your family is safe and comfortable.

1. Unusual Noises

If you start hearing strange noises from your furnace, it is crucial to take action before the problem worsens. The most common noises from a furnace can be grinding, rattling, or squealing. Various issues, such as a failing motor, a worn-out blower fan, or a clogged filter, can cause these noises. 

If you hear any of these noises coming from your furnace, it is vital to diagnose the issue and take appropriate action. The first step is to check your furnace filter and replace it if necessary. A clogged filter forces your furnace to work harder and make strange noises. If the filter is not the issue, you may need to have an HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa inspect your furnace and diagnose the problem.

2. Insufficient Heat

Has your home been feeling a bit chillier than usual lately? Are you turning up the thermostat to no avail? If so, it’s likely that your furnace is not working correctly and needs to be serviced. Here’s what you should know about furnace repair and how to go about it.

Signs that your furnace is not functioning correctly include not reaching the desired temperature, strange noises, and turning on and off more frequently. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to call in a professional furnace repair in Oshawa.

3. High Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed an unexplained increase in your energy bills, it’s time to take a closer look at your furnace. An inefficient furnace can cause your energy bills to skyrocket, so it’s essential to identify any potential issues and address them as soon as possible. 

Check the furnace filter and thermostat to ensure they’re working correctly. A clogged filter or malfunctioning thermostat can cause the furnace to run longer and use more energy than necessary.

4. Low Airflow

Weak airflow can be caused by various issues, ranging from a lack of heat production to an obstruction in the airflow. In any case, it’s essential to identify the problem as soon as possible to avoid more severe damage and costly repairs. If you cannot identify the cause of the weak airflow, it is best to call a professional. An HVAC technician will be able to inspect your system and identify the source of the problem. They will be able to recommend the best course of action to resolve the issue and get your furnace running smoothly again.

5. Unusual Odors

A musty smell could indicate mould or mildew in your furnace, which a moisture buildup or a leak could cause. Mould and mildew can cause serious health risks, so taking immediate action is essential if you notice this smell.

A burning smell could indicate something is overheating or not functioning correctly. This could result from a clogged filter, a worn-out part, or a faulty electrical component. A burning smell can also signify a gas leak, which can be extremely dangerous.

Conclusion 

Detecting a failing heating system is essential to maintain comfortable temperatures and prevent costly repairs. Homeowners should know the signs of a failing heating system, such as strange noises, odd smells, and inadequate heat output. By being proactive and performing regular maintenance, homeowners can ensure their heating system runs efficiently and safely all year.

Have your furnace checked by professionals before it’s too late. Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning offers quality HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa. Contact us today to learn more.  

Water leaks in home HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems can be a frustrating and expensive problem to deal with. In some cases, the damage caused by a water leak can be severe, leading to costly repairs and even potential health risks.

Fortunately, understanding the potential causes of water leaks can help you to diagnose and repair the problem quickly. Follow through this article to know the causes of HVAC system water leaks.

Causes of Water Leaks in Your HVAC System

Here are some of the most common causes of your HVAC unit leaking water in your home.

Blocked Condensate Drain Pipe

The condensate drain pipe removes the water from inside the air handler. The pipe is connected from the bottom of the air handler to a rain gutter or sump pit. The condensate drain pipe may become blocked with debris or be kinked so it cannot drain properly.

Loose or Damaged Air Handler Sealant

The air handler seals around the outside of it to prevent moisture from getting into your home. But if there is a tear in this sealant (usually due to age or damage), it can cause water to leak out and into your home through this crack in its seal.

Damaged Indoor Coil

When an indoor coil becomes damaged, water can get into your system and leak out onto the floor through this hole in its casing. Check the air handler to see any signs of water damage or mould on it. If so, this may be your problem, and you will want to call a professional for further inspection and repair.

Loose Connections

If your HVAC system is leaking water, it could be due to a loose connection in the unit’s plumbing. Sometimes moisture can build up in the pipes and cause them to corrode. This can lead to them becoming loose and moving around inside the unit. Water will leak out of your unit’s air ducts or floor drains when this happens.

Temperature Problems

Another reason why your HVAC system may be leaking water is due to temperature problems within the system itself. If there is too much pressure within the pipes or if they are not properly insulated, this will increase the chances of them having leaks occurring within them. The most common places for these leaks are tight bends in pipelines or connections that have been made improperly during installation at your home or office building’s HVAC system.

Air Filter is Dirty

An air filter that is clogged with dirt and debris can make it harder for your heating unit to operate efficiently. Dirt particles can also block airflow through vents and cause back pressure within systems that will lead to leakage around pipes and joints.

Conclusion

It is important to thoroughly understand the causes of HVAC system water leaks so that you can identify and repair them quickly. When the HVAC system is properly maintained and serviced, the chances of a leak are greatly reduced. To prevent damage to your home, consider routine scheduling maintenance for your air conditioner or heater.

If you are experiencing problems with your HVAC system, Oshawa hot water tank repair services can help you to identify and repair the problem quickly. Contact Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning today to learn more about how we can help you.

When it comes to maintaining the comfort and safety of your home or business, your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system is crucial. However, choosing the right HVAC contractor can be daunting, as many inexperienced or unscrupulous individuals pose as professionals in the industry. 

It is essential to be aware of the red flags that may indicate a contractor is not the best choice to avoid falling victim to these individuals. This article will discuss the top red flags to watch for when hiring an HVAC contractor. 

1. Not Insured

Even HVAC contractors with licenses might need more insurance to fix your house. If so, the homeowner might be liable for the HVAC company’s expensive mistakes. You are responsible for his medical bills and any associated legal costs if your HVAC contractor suffers an injury while working on your property and is not insured.

Additionally, if you use an uninsured HVAC company, you’ll be liable for any damage to your house resulting from the installation, upgrade, or inspection. The same holds for any damage your HVAC work causes to your neighbours’ residences. 

You cannot call an uninsured HVAC business after an installation and demand that they correct the problems, even if they should, so you will need to engage a different supplier for repairs.

2. Bad Reviews

If a company values its employees and consumers, it will respond to negative reviews in one of two ways. If a valid complaint is received, the business will extend an apology and redo the work as payment to the homeowner. 

For example, suppose a homeowner notices little difference after a component upgrade. In that case, the company can direct the homeowner to see the difference in monthly energy bills or water heater. In the case of a difficult-to-please homeowner, the company will apologize and explain what the homeowner can do.

A subpar HVAC company will only completely disregard unfavourable reviews if they are responded to. For these businesses, HVAC is not a service but a numbers game. Instead of long-term clientele, they prefer quick cash from one-time customers.

3. Poor Communication

Tradespeople might be among the only people in our hyper-digital society who are only sometimes connected to the internet. You don’t want emails to distract you when installing a complex heater. 

Good HVAC contractors will have a team member in charge of communication and scheduling, ensuring that someone is always available to send a professional to your house. However, it may be a red flag to look at alternative options if a company has long response times without justification or gives vague explanations of bids, prices, or services.

4. Bids Are Low-Quoted

Compare prices are you doing? Competitive bids are one thing, but dramatically off-the-wall cost forecasts are a dead giveaway. 

Remember that everything that appears too fantastic to be true certainly is. A business may only be able to make a meagre offer if it has very little overhead, for as, by forgoing investments in high-quality machinery, committed personnel, or knowledgeable HVAC specialists.

Conclusion

For many homeowners, HVAC maintenance and installation can be a significant investment. It is essential to research before hiring a contractor and ensure the job will be done correctly and safely. Doing your due diligence when selecting an HVAC contractor can help ensure you get quality and avoid costly repairs down the road.

If you need an HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa with a reliable company, Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is here for you! Our technicians are highly experienced and trained in HVAC services and can ensure that your home’s system runs as efficiently as possible. Get in touch with us now!

There is a cold in the air when it snows, especially for people whose furnaces haven’t been repaired in more than a year. These homeowners worry about their furnaces breaking down all the time. 

Living in such a frigid climate is not the best course of action. Get regular furnace maintenance in Oshawa to keep your family warm and comfortable over the winter. There are more advantages than you realize, so read on to learn more. 

Why Is Maintenance Required for My Furnace?

Furnace maintenance is an important part of keeping your home warm and efficient. 

Regular maintenance can help keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and preventing costly repairs. 

How Often Should You Get Furnace Maintenance?

The answer depends on several factors, such as the age of your furnace, how often you use it, and the type of furnace you have. 

Generally speaking, you should get your furnace serviced at least once a year. This will help to ensure that it is running properly and that any potential problems are caught early before they become major issues.

It is important to note that if you have a newer, high-efficiency furnace, you may be able to extend the time between maintenance visits, as these systems are designed to be more reliable and require less maintenance. 

However, it is still recommended to have your system serviced at least once a year, as this will give your specialist on furnace repair in Oshawa the opportunity to check for any potential problems and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

What Happens If You Skip Furnace Maintenance? 

Let’s discuss what happens if you don’t maintain your furnace to address this query. If the equipment isn’t cleaned regularly, it could accumulate dirt and dust. You will need to contact them for repairs because these particles harm the parts as they function. 

The filters assemble debris over time and clog. Air quality has declined due to its failure to remove pollutants from the indoor environment.

The possibility that your heater is allowing carbon monoxide into your home is likely the largest concern. Because it has no taste or smell and can have major health effects, including confusion and vomiting, this gas can be very difficult to identify. 

A specialist will inspect your furnace during maintenance to look for any cracks that might be the source of this problem.

The last reason in favor of routine maintenance is that it increases the lifespan of your furnace. 

A new furnace might set you back several thousand dollars. If you don’t have the system inspected yearly, it will degrade considerably more quickly. 

If maintenance is neglected, you risk having a freezing house in the dead of winter, which is the last thing you want.

How Frequently Should You Plan Maintenance?

Most specialists concur that your furnace needs maintenance at least once yearly. Some people wait until it’s too late to perform maintenance; if you don’t see the dentist every six months, that minor cavity could become a bigger problem. 

The same applies to furnace maintenance; it increases your unit’s usable life. Proactive maintenance protects you from additional detrimental effects even though it costs money.

Although the cost of maintenance may deter some homeowners, you should keep in mind that it pays for itself when you deal with fewer HVAC problems and longer shelf life.

The energy efficiency will be improved, resulting in lower utility costs for you. The conditions of your HVAC system’s warranty may be broken even though they are still in force if the system isn’t maintained once a year.

Conclusion 

Getting your furnace serviced annually is important to ensure it runs efficiently, safely, and effectively. An annual furnace inspection and tune-up can help you identify potential problems before they become major, saving you money in the long run. Regular maintenance can also extend your furnace’s life and improve its efficiency. If you haven’t had your furnace serviced in a while, it is a good idea to do so as soon as possible.

Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is a locally owned and operated HVAC company in the Durham Region! We service local families from Oshawa to Cobourg. Whether you need an inspection, furnace maintenance, repair, installation, or someone to provide sound HVAC recommendations, we’re here to help! Contact us today!

Your HVAC system is one of the essential parts of your home, and it’s important to keep it running smoothly. Just like a car, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance to avoid expensive repairs later on. But how do you know when it’s time for maintenance? Here are five signs you need to schedule an HVAC system maintenance at once. 

1. High Energy Bill

If your energy bill is rising, it means your HVAC system is not working as efficiently as it used to. Over time, dust and dirt can build up on the coils and other parts of the system, making it work harder to maintain the desired temperature. An HVAC technician can clean the coils and other parts of your system, restoring its efficiency and helping you save money on your energy bill.

2. Poor Air Quality

Your HVAC system is responsible for circulating the air in your home, and the air quality can suffer if it’s not functioning properly. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the filters, reducing the quality of the air in your home. If you have allergies or respiratory problems, make sure that your HVAC system is clean and running efficiently. Regularly changing the air filters captures the dirt and dust before they build up. Also, try vacuuming often to reduce the dust in your home.

3. Inconsistent Temperature

As the temperature outside begins dropping, you may reach for the thermostat to crank up the heat. But what if you notice that the temperature in your home is inconsistent? If you find that the temperature in your home is fluctuating, it could be a sign that your HVAC system is not working properly. Whether the thermostat needs to be calibrated or the ductwork isn’t thoroughly sealed, these possibilities can cause fluctuating temperatures. 

4. Unusual Noises

Most people know that their HVAC system circulates the air in their homes, but many don’t realize that it can also help filter out harmful airborne contaminants. Banging, grinding, or squealing noises can be a sign that there is a problem with the moving parts in your system. These include a loose belt or a fan motor. If you hear any of these strange noises, make sure to contact a professional to have your system checked out.

5. Unpleasant Odours

We all know that mould, mildew, and bacteria can be a nuisance in our homes. But did you know these unwelcome guests can also find their way into our air ducts and vents? If these contaminants are not removed, they can not only cause unpleasant odours but can also cause air quality issues. It may be a sign of a gas leak, which can be dangerous. In any case, a maintenance check can help identify any issues and help prevent any future problems.

In Summary

Maintaining your HVAC system is essential for the system’s smooth operation and the assurance you get the most from your investment. If you notice any of the five signs mentioned in this article, it is time for you to take action and get your HVAC system serviced. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure your system is running optimally, so stay on top of it.

Enhance the air quality of your home by hiring Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning today. We provide HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa. Contact us to request a free quote.

If you’ve ever wondered why your furnace is so loud, you’re not alone. Furnaces can be quite noisy, and it’s often one of the first things homeowners notice when they move into a new home. 

There are a few different reasons why furnaces can be loud, and understanding the cause of the noise can help you determine whether or not it’s something you need to be concerned about.

In this blog, we’ll discuss six potential causes of a loud furnace and what you can do to fix them.

1. The Unit Is Old

Over time, parts can begin to wear out and make noise as they operate. If your furnace is getting up there in age, it does not necessarily cause alarm, but it’s something to keep in mind. If the noise is accompanied by other problems, such as a decline in performance, then it’s time to start thinking about replacing the furnace.

2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters 

When air filters become clogged with dirt and dust, they restrict air flow. This can cause the furnace to work harder to circulate air, which can make it noisy. To fix this, simply replace your air filters with clean ones. Depending on the type of furnace you have, you may need to do this every few months

3. Loose Parts 

Over time, parts can become loose and vibrate when the furnace is running. This can create a rattling noise. To fix this, you’ll need to inspect your furnace and tighten any loose parts. This is something you may be able to do yourself, but you may need to call a professional if you’re not comfortable working with your furnace. 

4. Worn-Out Parts 

As furnaces age, parts can wear out and break. This can cause all sorts of problems, including a loud furnace. If you think your furnace is loud because of worn-out parts, it’s best to call a professional. They can inspect your furnace and replace any worn-out parts. 

5. Faulty Blower Motor

The blower motor is responsible for circulating air through the furnace and into your home. If the motor is going bad, it can make a lot of noise. If you think this might be the problem, it’s best to call a professional to take a look.

6. Some Furnaces Are Simply Louder than Others

Some models are designed to be more efficient, and this often comes at the expense of noise. If you’re concerned about the noise level of your furnace, it’s a good idea to talk to your heating and cooling contractor about your options. They can help you choose a model that will be more efficient and less noisy.

Conclusion

If you’re noticing that your furnace is making more noise than usual, it’s important to take action. By understanding the cause of the noise, you can determine whether or not it’s something that you need to be concerned about. 

If the noise is due to a dirty furnace, you can have it cleaned by a professional. If the noise is due to an old furnace, you may need to start thinking about replacing the unit. And if the noise is simply due to the model of furnace you have, you can talk to your contractor about choosing a quieter model.

When it comes to furnace maintenance in Oshawa, no one does it better than Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning. We can convert your existing HVAC system to a more efficient one so that you and everyone in your home can remain cozy. Contact us now to get a quote!

The holidays are a wonderful time of year. But, sadly, they also mean that we have to deal with freezing temperatures. For many of us, this means bundling up in warm clothes and staying indoors as much as possible. 

According to leaders of home heating services, central heating systems are economical. They supply warmth from a single location to many locations within the same residential or commercial building. Using a central heating system can improve the comfort of your home or office while reducing energy costs.

1. It Provides Comfort and Convenience 

Central heating systems offer several advantages over conventional home heating services. They are more efficient, provide greater comfort and convenience, and can be controlled remotely.

They are typically more efficient than their conventional counterparts because they distribute heat evenly throughout the home. It results in less heat loss and lower energy bills. In addition, the former offers greater comfort and convenience because they can be controlled remotely. It means you can adjust the temperature from anywhere in the house, making it more comfortable for everyone. 

Finally, central heating systems can be controlled remotely, which means you can turn them on and off from anywhere in the world. One of the brilliant things about smart thermostats is that they can be controlled remotely, so you can always ensure your home is at the perfect temperature no matter where you are. You can also set specific temperatures for each room to keep your living room cozy while saving energy in your bedroom.

2. It Is More Eco-Friendly

As the world becomes more aware of the dangers of climate change, many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One way to do this is to upgrade to a more efficient heating and cooling system.

Today’s central HVAC systems are much more energy-efficient than older models. They use less electricity, which means they produce less carbon dioxide. A central HVAC system can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 50%.

Not only are central HVAC systems more eco-friendly, but they are also more comfortable. They evenly distribute heat (or cool air in the summer), so you will not have to worry about hot and cold spots in your home.

Talk to a qualified HVAC contractor if you consider upgrading to a central HVAC system. They can help you choose the right system for your home and install it properly.

3. It Boosts Property Value

Central heating systems are one of the essential features of a home, and they can significantly impact your property value. Central heating systems can be a major selling point for a home and add significant value to your property. If you are thinking about selling your home, it is essential to consider the value of your central heating system.

Properties equipped with central HVAC systems are highly sought on the real estate market. Central HVAC systems provide several benefits that make them desirable for potential home buyers.

Conclusion

Central heating systems offer more benefits than conventional home heating services. They are efficient and reliable and can save you money on energy bills. They can also help to improve the indoor air quality in your home and reduce the risk of health problems related to cold temperatures.

It is still possible to make your home warm and toasty this season. You should immediately seek top-notch Oshawa home heating services, and there is no one better than Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning. We can convert your existing HVAC system to a more efficient one so that you and everyone in your home can remain cozy. Contact us now for a quote!

If you’ve ever noticed that some rooms in your home are much hotter than others, you’re not alone. Uneven heating is a common issue in many homes, and various factors can cause it. From poor insulation to a malfunctioning HVAC system, there are a few reasons your home may not be heating evenly. 

Here are some causes of uneven heating in houses so you can call for an HVAC maintenance service as soon as possible:

1. Poor Insulation

Poor insulation is one of the leading causes of uneven heating. If your insulation is inadequate or has become damaged, it can prevent heat from circulating evenly throughout your home. This can lead to hot and cold spots in different rooms, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature.

2. Ventilation Issues

Another common cause of uneven heating is ventilation issues. If your HVAC system is not properly ventilated, it can cause hot and cold spots throughout the house. This can be due to clogged air filters, inefficient ductwork, or a poor ventilation system.

3. Malfunctioning HVAC System

If your HVAC system is not functioning properly, it can cause uneven heating in your home. A malfunctioning HVAC system can cause hot and cold spots in certain rooms, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home.

4. Leaky Ducts

Leaky ducts can also cause uneven heating in your home. If your ducts are not properly sealed, they can cause hot and cold spots in different rooms. This can be due to damaged or poorly installed ducts or a lack of insulation.

5. Improperly Installed HVAC System

An improperly installed HVAC system can also cause uneven heating. If your HVAC system is not installed correctly, it can lead to hot and cold spots throughout your home. This can be due to incorrect sizing, poor installation, or a lack of maintenance.

6. Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter is one of the most common causes of inadequate heat. A clogged air filter can restrict the flow of air, resulting in an inadequate amount of heat being produced by the system. Check your air filter regularly and replace it when necessary. This is a simple and inexpensive solution that can often resolve the issue.

7. Thermostat Issue

Another common cause of inadequate heat is an issue with the thermostat. If the thermostat is not calibrated correctly, it may not be able to accurately detect the temperature of the room and cause the system to produce less heat than necessary. It is important to make sure that your thermostat is properly calibrated to ensure that it is functioning properly.

8. Malfunctioning Furnace

Another cause of inadequate heat could be a malfunctioning furnace. If your furnace is not running properly, it can lead to inadequate heat. Make sure to check the air filter, thermostat, and any other components of your furnace that could be causing the problem. If everything is functioning properly, it is time to call in a professional HVAC maintenance service to take a look.

Conclusion

By understanding the causes of uneven heating in your home, you can take steps to address the issue. Contacting an HVAC maintenance service can help you identify the problem and take the steps needed to fix it. An experienced technician can inspect your HVAC system and identify any problems causing the uneven heating. 

Are you in need of an HVAC maintenance service? Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. We are a locally owned and operated HVAC Company located in the Durham Region. Whether you need an inspection, a repair, an installation, or someone to provide sound HVAC recommendations, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us today!

If you live in a home, then you know that the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a must-have. Not only does it keep your home comfortable during extreme temperatures, but it also helps to improve the air quality inside of your home.

There are many different reasons why you should make sure to keep up with regular HVAC services, and in this comprehensive guide, we will discuss six of those reasons.

1. To Prevent Breakdowns

One of the most important reasons to keep up with regular HVAC services is to prevent your system from breaking down. If you neglect your system and do not have it serviced regularly, then it is more likely to break down when you need it the most. By having regular HVAC services, you can catch small problems before they turn into big, expensive ones.

2. To Improve Air Quality

Another important reason to keep up with regular HVAC services is to improve the air quality inside your home. Your HVAC system is responsible for circulating the air inside of your home, and if it is not working properly, the air quality can suffer. Dust, pollen, and other allergens can build up inside your HVAC system and be circulated throughout your home, which can trigger allergies and other respiratory problems. Regular HVAC services will help keep your system clean and improve the air quality inside your home.

3. To Increase Efficiency

Another reason to keep up with regular HVAC services is to increase the efficiency of your system. An inefficient system has to work harder to maintain the same level of comfort, which can lead to higher energy bills. By having regular HVAC services, you can make sure that your system is running as efficiently as possible, which can save you money on your energy bills.

4. To Benefit the Environment

Regular HVAC services can also help you to do your part to protect the environment. An efficient system uses less energy, which means that it produces fewer emissions. These emissions can contribute to air pollution and climate change, so by keeping your system running efficiently, you can help to reduce your carbon footprint.

5. To Prolong the Life of Your System

One of the main reasons why you should make sure to keep up with regular HVAC services is to prolong the life of your system. Just like with any other type of machinery, if you do not keep up with regular maintenance, your HVAC system will eventually break down. By having a professional come out and service your system regularly, you can rest assured knowing that your system will last for many years to come.

6. To Improve Comfort

Another reason why you should keep up with regular HVAC services is to improve the comfort of your home. If your system is not working properly, it can make your home uncomfortable. By having a professional come out and service your system, you can be sure that your home will be as comfortable as possible.

Conclusion

HVAC services are a must-have for any home or a business owner. They provide many benefits that help to keep your property comfortable and safe. Services can include regular maintenance, repair, and installation of new systems. When choosing an HVAC company, be sure to research its reputation and services to ensure you are getting the best possible service.

Are you looking for an HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa? Call Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning today! We are a locally owned and operated HVAC Company located right here in the Durham Region! We service local families from Oshawa all the way to Cobourg! Whether you need an inspection, a repair, an installation or someone to provide sound HVAC recommendations, we’re here to help! Call 289-688-4822 for a free quote!