Category: Blog-Furnaces

A collection of blogs about Furnaces, Maintenance tips and more.

  • How Can Advanced HVAC Enhance Your Home Heating in Ottawa?

    How Can Advanced HVAC Enhance Your Home Heating in Ottawa?

    Home Heating in Ottawa. A residential oil furnace - forced hot air with central air conditioning and an in-line humidifier as well.

    Home Heating in Ottawa, Ottawa winters are no joke. Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and long months of cold weather make a reliable, efficient heating system essential for comfort and energy savings.

    But modern HVAC solutions go beyond just heating—they improve air quality, lower energy costs, and enhance overall home heating efficiency. With the latest advancements in HVAC technology, Ottawa homeowners can experience superior warmth, better air quality, and long-term energy savings.

    Whether upgrading an outdated furnace, considering a high-efficiency heat pump, or integrating smart home heating technology, investing in the right heating system makes a noticeable difference.

    The Benefits of an Advanced HVAC System for Home Heating In Ottawa

    Choosing an advanced heating system isn’t just about keeping warm—it’s about creating a more comfortable, efficient, and healthier living environment. Here’s how the right HVAC system can improve home heating in Ottawa:

    Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

    Older home heating systems often waste energy, increasing utility bills and unnecessary carbon emissions. Modern HVAC systems are designed with high-efficiency technology, which means they:

    • Use less energy while delivering optimal warmth
    • Feature variable-speed blowers that adjust to heating needs
    • Work with smart thermostats to prevent overheating and wasted energy
    • Lower monthly heating costs and reduce environmental impact

    Upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, or hybrid system can significantly cut energy expenses, providing long-term savings.

    Consistent and Even Heating

    If some rooms in the home always feel too hot or too cold, an outdated heating system may be to blame. Traditional systems often struggle with uneven heat distribution, leaving hot and cold spots throughout the house.

    Advanced HVAC solutions—including zoned home heating systems and high-efficiency furnaces—ensure:

    • Even heat distribution across all rooms
    • Improved airflow for a more balanced temperature
    • Zoned heating options allow personalized temperature settings in different areas of the home.

    This personalized comfort means no more freezing bedrooms or overheated living rooms—every space stays consistently warm.

    Improved Indoor Air Quality

    Home Heating in Ottawa. Hand holding a bubble of clean air: air quality index monitoring.

    Home heating systems don’t just warm the air—they also affect indoor air quality. Poor ventilation, outdated filters, and excessive dryness can lead to:

    • Allergens and dust buildup
    • Dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity
    • Increased mould and mildew due to poor humidity control

    Advanced HVAC systems include:

    • High-efficiency air filtration to remove dust, allergens, and pollutants
    • Built-in humidity control to maintain comfortable moisture levels
    • Ventilation improvements to keep the air fresh and clean

    This means better respiratory health, fewer allergy symptoms, and a more comfortable home environment for Ottawa’s dry winters.

    Smart Technology for Ultimate Control

    A smart thermostat is a game-changer for home heating. Instead of manually adjusting temperatures, smart systems automatically optimize heat settings based on your habits.

    • Learns daily routines and adjusts temperatures accordingly
    • Reduces energy waste, lowering heating costs
    • Remote access via a smartphone app for control from anywhere
    • Weather adaptability, adjusting heating based on outdoor conditions

    Imagine coming home to a perfectly heated space without leaving the furnace running all day—smart HVAC technology makes it possible.

    Eco-Friendly Heating Options

    Modern HVAC systems offer greener heating solutions for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

    • Heat Pumps – Use electricity to transfer heat instead of burning fuel, making them incredibly efficient.
    • High-Efficiency Furnaces – Consume less fuel while producing the same or better heating performance.
    • Hybrid Heating Systems – Combine a heat pump with a furnace for optimal energy use in all weather conditions.
    • Radiant Floor Heating – Provides even warmth from the ground up, reducing heat loss.

    Switching to an energy-efficient heating system lowers emissions and qualifies for government rebates and incentives, making the investment even more attractive.

    Choosing the Right HVAC System for Your Home

    Every home has unique heating needs, and selecting the right system depends on:

    • Home size and layout – Larger homes may need zoned heating or a more powerful furnace.
    • Existing insulation and ductwork – Proper insulation improves efficiency.
    • Budget and long-term savings goals – High-efficiency systems cost more upfront but save money in the long run.
    • Fuel availability – Gas, electric, or hybrid systems offer different benefits based on local utility rates.

    Professional HVAC consultations help homeowners make the best choice for their specific needs, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency.

    Regular Maintenance for Optimal Heating Performance

    Even the most advanced HVAC systems need regular maintenance to perform at their best. Ottawa’s harsh winters put extra strain on heating systems, making annual inspections, tune-ups, and filter changes essential.

    • Check and replace filters regularly to maintain airflow and air quality.
    • Schedule professional maintenance before winter to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
    • Monitor thermostat settings for efficient energy use.
    • Ensure vents and ductwork are clean for proper heat circulation.

    Preventative maintenance keeps systems running smoothly, reduces repair costs, and extends equipment lifespan.

    Stay Warm and Comfortable All Winter Long

    With Ottawa’s extreme winter temperatures, investing in an advanced HVAC system is the key to maintaining consistent, efficient, cost-effective heating. Whether upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace, installing a heat pump, or integrating smart technology, the right heating system enhances comfort and savings.

    • Lower energy bills with high-efficiency technology
    • Improve indoor air quality with better filtration and humidity control
    • Enjoy even heating throughout every room
    • Reduce your carbon footprint with eco-friendly options

    A warm, cozy home starts with the right heating system. Experience the difference advanced HVAC solutions can make this winter. Contact us today to get started.

    David Laplante

    Advance HVACAdvanced Heating SystemsFurnaceHeat PumpHVACIndoor Air Quality

  • Hiring a Professional for Furnace Installation in Ottawa

    Hiring a Professional for Furnace Installation in Ottawa

    Furnace Installation. Happy family happy and warm at home and engaging their little kid in fun games.

    A properly installed furnace ensures your home stays warm and comfortable during Ottawa’s cold winters. While it might be tempting to take a DIY approach or hire the cheapest option available, furnace installation is not a task to cut corners on. 

    Hiring a professional ensures efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. Here’s why choosing a professional for your furnace installation in Ottawa is a smart investment.

    Ensuring Proper Furnace Installation

    Installing a furnace involves more than just placing it in the basement and connecting it to your home’s HVAC system. A professional ensures that your furnace is installed correctly, with precise connections to the ductwork, electrical systems, and fuel lines. 

    Proper installation helps your furnace operate efficiently, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and ensures your home is heated evenly.

    Maximizing Energy Efficiency

    Energy efficiency isn’t just about having a high-quality furnace—it’s also about how well it’s installed. A poorly installed furnace can waste energy, leading to higher utility bills and uneven heating.

     As professionals, we ensure your furnace is calibrated and set up to operate at peak efficiency, helping you save on heating costs while keeping your home cozy.

    Adhering to Safety Standards

    Furnace installation involves handling gas lines, electrical connections, and venting systems. Any mistakes in these areas can pose serious safety risks, such as gas leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, or electrical fires. Our team prioritizes your safety, following all local building codes and industry standards to ensure your furnace operates safely and reliably.

    Selecting the Right Furnace for Your Home

    Furnace Installation. A home high energy efficient furnace in a basement.

    Every home has unique heating needs, and choosing the right furnace is key to achieving optimal comfort and efficiency. Factors like the size of your home, insulation, and existing ductwork all play a role in determining the best furnace for your space. We help you choose the right model, considering your budget, energy efficiency goals, and heating requirements.

    Protecting Your Warranty

    Most furnace manufacturers require professional installation for their warranties to remain valid. Attempting a DIY installation or hiring an unqualified technician can void your warranty, leaving you unprotected in case of future issues. Hiring us ensures your warranty remains intact, providing peace of mind and financial security.

    Long-Term Cost Savings

    Hiring a professional for furnace installation might seem like a higher upfront cost, but it saves you money in the long run. A properly installed furnace runs more efficiently, requires fewer repairs, and has a longer lifespan. You’ll also avoid costly mistakes from improper installation, such as poor airflow, system malfunctions, or increased energy consumption.

    Post-Installation Support

    You’re not just getting a one-time service when you hire us for furnace installation. We offer ongoing support, including maintenance and repair services, to ensure your furnace continues to perform at its best. Regular tune-ups and inspections keep your system running efficiently and help you catch potential issues before they become costly repairs.

    Why Professional Installation Matters in Ottawa

    Ottawa’s winters are no joke, with freezing temperatures that demand a reliable and efficient heating system. A professionally installed furnace ensures you’re ready to face the cold confidently, providing consistent warmth and comfort throughout your home. 

    Whether upgrading an old furnace or installing a new system in a recently built house, our expertise guarantees a seamless and stress-free process.

    Conclusion

    Investing in professional furnace installation is the best way to ensure your home stays warm, safe, and energy-efficient. From choosing the right furnace to installing it to the highest standards, we’re here to help every step of the way. 

    Don’t take chances with your comfort and safety—leave your furnace installation to the experts. Reach out to us today to get started!

    David Laplante

    Advance HVACAdvanced Heating SystemsFurnaceHVAC

  • What Is An Ideal Thermostat Setting For Winter?

    What Is An Ideal Thermostat Setting For Winter?

    HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. HVAC systems keep you warm during the winter seasons and cool in the summertime. It’s also a system that can filter and clean your air to keep you healthy.

    With cooler weather around the corner, you may be wondering what an ideal thermostat setting for winter would be. In this article, we’ll discuss the ideal temperatures for your HVAC systems and what you should consider when monitoring indoor temperatures between seasons.

    Save Money With An Efficient HVAC System

    Woman Changing Thermostat Temperatures Inside Home In Living Room

    Heating and cooling systems often consume a large portion of the energy required for your home. Investing in an efficient HVAC system will save you money in the long run, specifically for your monthly energy bills.

    Not only will investing in an efficient HVAC system save you money, but it will also help improve your indoor temperatures for comfort levels, keep noise levels down, and be better for the environment!

    Setting Your Winter Thermostat Settings

    At home, 20 degrees Celsius is the ideal thermostat setting that considers comfort and energy efficiency. Please note that every home is different so even if you accurately set that temperature, your levels set might be a moving target you need to experiment with to hit accurately. It can fluctuate depending on whether you’re away from home, awake, active, or have a large group of people over.

    Just like homes, every person is different as well. Although this 20-degree temperate target is technically the most ideal figure for both comfort and efficiency, it’s not meant for everyone. Some people might run colder during the winter months compared to others and find that they need to increase their temperature a degree or two from this level.

    Woman On A Couch In Blankets In Living Room Drinking From Mug

    Setting Your Summer Thermostat Settings

    Compared to your winter thermostat settings, indoor temperatures should be set slightly higher in the summer. Naturally, during the summer months, you’ll be using the energy from your home to try and cool things down instead of heating things up. With this in mind, the ideal thermostat setting that considers both comfort and efficiency is around 26 degrees Celsius. This will still keep you cool, while also keeping your energy bill at a reasonable level.

    Consider A Programmable Thermostat

    A programmable thermostat lets you set specific temperatures for when you’re asleep, or away from home. Since you no longer have to play around with the setting so often, this will help you save so much time. Not only will it save you plenty of time, but it will also save you money in the long run.

    If you’re considering purchasing a more efficient HVAC system for your home that has programmable settings, contact the team at Advanced HVAC. We’ve been proudly serving the Ottawa community and have over 100 years of combined experience.

    David Laplante

    Tips

  • When to Turn On Your Furnace in Ottawa

    When to Turn On Your Furnace in Ottawa

    Ottawa’s weather is notorious for its drastic temperature fluctuations. Just when you think summer is over, Mother Nature hits you with a 19°C sunny day. 

    The same applies to winter – just when you think the worst of it is over a full day of snowfall arrives. 

    These unpredictable events make it difficult to know when to turn on your furnace in Ottawa. We understand that 

    The Best Time to Turn On Your Furnace in Ottawa

    HVAC Technician in Ottawa works on Furnace

    Most people reach for their furnaces when temperatures outdoors drop below a certain standard – usually between the ranges of 10-15 degrees. It should be noted, however, that the furnace’s status should be changed based on indoor temperature, not outdoor.

    The consensus among experts is that, for most people, the optimal temperature is around 18-20°C. 20°C is the ideal temperature for most homes because it maintains a balance between hot and cold. You won’t need a jacket nor will you need to remove your top entirely to be comfortable.

    Keep an eye on your indoor temperature as we ease into the colder months. It’s time to turn on the furnace in Ottawa when you see a sharp drop in indoor temperature (below 18°C).

    For elderly people or families with young children, we advise that you turn on the furnace when temperatures drop below 20-21°C. Contact an HVAC technician to come to assist you if you are elderly and struggle to operate your furnace. 

    Understanding Thermostat Settings

    Turning your furnace on, setting a temperature, and forgetting about it until spring is a sure way to waste a ton of energy and money. 

    If you happen to have a programmable thermostat, make sure to set it to a normal temperature during the day and to a lower temperature (or turn it off completely) at night or when you typically are away from home. Using these settings will save money, save energy, and preserve the lifespan of your furnace.

    Make sure to set reminders on your phone to turn the temperature higher, lower, or off if you do not own a programmable thermostat. It can be a tedious process over the whole winter, but it will help with saving money. 

    Man changes furnace filter

    How to Prepare Your Furnace for Winter in Ottawa

    Make sure to test your thermostat before the colder months arrive. This can be easily done by setting your thermostat to “auto”/”automatic” and increasing the temperature. Shortly after this process, the furnace should kick in and you’ll hear the fan. Enlist the help of Ottawa HVAC services if you don’t hear anything and you suspect your furnace is broken.

    It’s important to change your furnace’s filter before the season begins. Changing the filter ensures that it’ll be as clean as possible and won’t succumb to any problems. Make sure to change the filter every 2.5-3 months to maximize efficiency. 

    The most important thing to do is to get a top-to-bottom furnace tune-up from an Ottawa HVAC technician. This comprehensive service will check your furnace for operational ability, safety hazards, or other issues. Furnace tune-ups will also optimize your furnace’s efficiency which helps lower energy bills.

    Ottawa’s Trusted HVAC Solutions Providers  

    We hope that this guide will help you prepare your furnace for Ottawa’s harsh winters. While it’s important to inspect your furnace yourself, remember to hire an HVAC technician to give your furnace a tune-up. A furnace tune-up will save you time, money, and energy.

    Contact Advanced HVAC for all your HVAC service needs in Ottawa! We have decades of combined experience installing heating systems and we’d love to help you prepare your home for the upcoming winter season. 

    David Laplante

    Tips

  • Heat Pumps vs Furnaces – Which is Better?

    Heat Pumps vs Furnaces – Which is Better?

    Unless you’ve been living under a rock your entire life, you’ll know all too well how necessary heating systems are for homes in Ottawa. There are multiple ways to heat your home, with each method accompanied by a long list of pros and cons. It might be overwhelming trying to determine the best heating system for your home – so, for this guide, we’ll be focusing our efforts on heat pumps vs furnaces.

    We’ve compiled a list of the most important factors to consider when choosing between a furnace and a heat pump. By the end of this guide, you’ll likely have your pick for the right heating system for you – you’ll also be surprised at how much you didn’t know about heating systems

    Cost

    Did you know that the largest contributor to energy bills is heating? Heating consumes a surprising amount of energy and accounts for nearly 50% of a home’s energy bill. For comparison, lighting and cooking combined only comprise 10% of a home’s energy use.

    Your decision in regards to heat pumps vs furnaces should be made based on the cost and availability of resources in your home and area. A furnace is likely your best bet if your area has low energy costs for natural gas and similar natural resources. Conversely, you should opt for a heat pump if the cost of electricity is low in your area.

    Efficiency

    Energy efficiency is a hot topic these days amongst friends and in the media. People actively search for the most energy-efficient system and it’s a large factor in determining which system to purchase – and for good reason. Energy-efficient systems not only help save the environment but your wallet too! Keep this in mind when making your choice.

    Heat pumps use significantly less energy than furnaces despite their electric nature. Heat pumps typically generate 300% more energy than it consumes if the circumstances are right. For comparison, the highest-efficiency gas furnaces clock in far below heat pumps by being only 95% efficient

    Are you interested in learning more about the energy efficiency of your current heating system? Contact an expert HVAC services provider, such as Advanced HVAC, to inspect your HVAC system for flaws or advice on system upgrades.

    Environmental Circumstances

    One critically important factor to consider when making your choice is the temperature in your area. The choice between heat pumps vs furnaces is radically different for somebody in Vancouver than it is for somebody in Ottawa because of the temperature difference.

    Heat pumps, as the name suggests, pump air from outside into the home while warming it in the process. It’s difficult for heat pumps to keep up during harsh winters when temperatures are below freezing as there is a large gap between the outdoor temperature and the standard for indoor temperature. The large gap in temperature forces the heat pump to work harder, and thus, use more energy to achieve its goal.

    People in harsh winter climates tend to prefer furnaces because it uses less energy and operates outside of environmental circumstances. While furnaces do not have the ability to cool homes, as heat pumps do, they remain a reliable option that will keep energy usage, costs, and heat levels consistent.

    Superior HVAC services in Ottawa

    So – heat pumps vs furnaces – what’s your pick? Ultimately, the largest factors in choosing the right system for you are the location of your home and the climate of that location, rather than the operational qualities of the heating system itself.

    Contact Advanced HVAC for all your HVAC service needs in Ottawa! We have decades of combined experience installing heating systems and we’d love to help you prepare your home for the upcoming winter season.

    David Laplante

    Tips

  • What is the Best Temperature for Sleeping?

    What is the Best Temperature for Sleeping?

    There are many factors that contribute to both good and bad sleeping routines. This can vary from the humidity in the room to the temperature.

    Here at advanced HVAC, we have seen this pattern many times, and have helped thousands of people achieve their most comfortable sleep habits possible through our HVAC installation services.

    But what is the ideal temperature for optimal sleep, and how does an HVAC system improve sleep? We are so glad you asked!

    A woman sleeping peacefully with her dog

    The Best Temperature for Sleeping

    A poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation shows that cooler temperatures in the bedroom contribute to more restful sleep. Four out of five people who completed this poll indicated that this was important to them.

    When we investigated this further, we came to the conclusion that a bedroom temperature of 18 degrees Celsius is the perfect temperature for optimal sleeping conditions.

    Installing an HVAC system in your home is the perfect way to ensure this temperature is maintained throughout the night to ensure your sleep goes undisturbed.

    How do HVAC Systems Help Improve Sleep?

    We have assembled this resource that will explain the benefits an HVAC system can provide you with, and how it can greatly improve your sleep.

    Reduces Humidity

    Humid air is harder to breathe than tempered air. This means your body works harder to breathe humid air, which can cause you to have a more restless sleep since it is more difficult for your body to relax. This is particularly evident in the summertime due to the rise in humidity.

    It is recommended you adjust the humidity settings on your HVAC to counteract the humidity in your home. This will help create optimal sleeping conditions resulting in a better night’s rest

    Improves Air Flow

    Installing an HVAC system in your home will enhance the air quality in your room! The HVAC system is constantly recycling stale air in your house and replacing it with fresh air from outside. This helps combat unwanted dust from collecting in your room, and makes it so the air you are breathing is much cleaner!

    This is a major benefit to HVAC systems, especially if you or your loved one suffer from asthma. Reducing the contaminants in the air is crucial when seeking the best sleep of your life.

    Helps Prevent Health Conditions

    Studies have shown that insufficient sleep is a contributor to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It is absolutely paramount that you ensure you are getting enough sleep each night for your overall health, a factor many people do not take into consideration.

    For adults, it is recommended you get 7+ hours of sleep each night in order to maintain your overall health. Installing an HVAC system can be a major contributor to achieving this. We highly recommend looking into HVAC installation if you experience any difficulty sleeping.

    Advanced HVAC – Ottawa’s Trusted HVAC Experts

    An HVAC technician setting the hvac system to the optimal setting

    Our team of uniformed professionals here at Advanced HVAC is prepared to install a top-of-the-line HVAC system in your home, so you can have the healthiest, most comfortable sleep possible. We are passionate about providing you with unparalleled HVAC services to improve your quality of life and provide you with the best temperature for sleeping.

    Trust us here at Advanced HVAC to respond to your request quickly and install your new HVAC system for a fair and competitive price. We even offer financing options! Contact us today to get started.

    David Laplante

    Tips

  • What’s the Ideal Home Temperature?

    What’s the Ideal Home Temperature?

    Do you ever feel as though your home’s temperature isn’t quite right? Some days you wake up half-frozen whereas other nights you’re drenched in sweat. So what is the ideal home temperature?

    Heating and cooling expenses are responsible for nearly half of your utility bills, so making educated choices can greatly reduce your monthly payments. With Ottawa’s harsh winter, it’s vital to have the heat turned on 24/7 for fear of bursting the water pipes.

    It may be tempting to turn off the heat during the winter for a couple of hours to save on your utility bill, but doing so will be more inefficient than helpful. Deciding which temperature is perfect for your entire household may be difficult, but luckily there are a few key rules you can follow to make everyone happy.

    Finding the ideal temperature for your home will not only save you money on energy bills but will make you and your family more comfortable during your time indoors.

    Ideal Home Temperature for the Winter

    older couple wearing thick sweaters in their livingroom

    Fighting about the temperature with your household members is quite common as everyone has a different idea of what the house temperature should be.

    The recommended thermostat setting is generally 21 degrees Celsius, creating the perfect balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Constantly changing the temperature throughout the day will raise your utility bills, which is why it’s essential to have it set to the appropriate temperature and keep your hands off of the dial.

    A home temperature of 21 degrees Celcius is the lowest comfortable temperature, according to the department of energy. This setting will help decrease heat loss, which is a result of having your thermostat at an unreasonably high setting.

    Ideal Home Temperature for the Summer

    a woman enjoying her ideal home temperature settings

    No one wants to sweat while relaxing in their homes during the summer months, which is why finding the perfect thermostat setting to make both your family members and your pockets happy is vital.

    It’s recommended to keep your home at a temperature of 23 degrees Celsius in the warm season as it keeps everyone cool while also saving on energy bills. Unlike the winter, turning off your thermostat in the summer while you’re away from home will not cause any problems or damage.

    Turning up the thermostat to 25-26 degrees Celsius at night can also help keep utility bills from getting too high. Our body temperature naturally drops when we sleep, allowing us to withstand higher temperatures without discomfort.

    Stay Comfortable All Year Long with Advanced HVAC

    While it may be helpful, you don’t necessarily need a smart thermostat to save on your energy bills while keeping your house at a pleasant temperature.

    Getting annual servicing for your furnace can greatly reduce heating and cooling costs as regular cleaning and checkup will make sure everything is running smoothly and not working harder than it needs to be.

    Our team of experts at Advanced HVAC had the training and experience necessary to provide you with top-quality furnace and HVAC services year-round. You can count on us to get the job done in a timely and efficient manner.

    Reach out to us to learn more about how to become energy efficient and get a free, no-obligation quote today.

    David Laplante

    Advance HVACHVACTips