Recently Asked Questions
Browse the latest questions from Ottawa homeowners.
Why does my AC smell musty?
A musty smell from your AC is typically caused by mold or mildew growth somewhere in your system, most commonly in the e...
How do I clean mold from my AC coils?
Cleaning mold from AC coils requires careful attention to safety and proper technique, as improper cleaning can spread s...
What is a hybrid heating system?
A hybrid heating system combines an electric heat pump with a gas furnace to provide the most efficient and cost-effecti...
How noisy is a heat pump outdoor unit?
Most modern heat pump outdoor units operate at 50-60 decibels, which is roughly equivalent to a normal conversation or m...
Should I oil my furnace blower motor?
Most modern furnace blower motors are permanently sealed and do not require oiling. Attempting to oil a sealed motor can...
Is it worth converting electric baseboard to a furnace?
Converting from electric baseboard to a furnace is often worth it in Ottawa's climate, especially with rising electricit...
Why does my AC trip the breaker when it's really hot?
Your AC is likely tripping the breaker due to electrical overload caused by the system working harder in extreme heat. T...
How do I check if my HRV is working properly?
Your HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) should run continuously or on a schedule to maintain proper indoor air quality. Star...
Why is my air conditioner freezing up?
Your air conditioner is likely freezing up due to restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels, both of which cause the...
What is the cost to replace a furnace control board?
Furnace control board replacement typically costs $300-$600 in Ottawa, including parts and labor from a licensed HVAC te...
What is a HEPA filter and do I need one?
A HEPA filter (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) is a premium air filter that captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or...
Can I install a gas fireplace during winter?
Yes, you can install a gas fireplace during winter in Ottawa. While it requires more planning due to weather conditions,...
What codes apply to HRV installation in Ontario?
HRV installation in Ontario must comply with the Ontario Building Code (OBC), electrical codes, and manufacturer specifi...
How do I check my refrigerant level?
Checking refrigerant levels requires specialized equipment and should only be done by a licensed HVAC technician. Refrig...
How much does an HRV system cost to install?
HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) installation in Ottawa typically costs between $2,500 and $4,500 for a complete system, i...
Can I install a gas fireplace in my bedroom?
No, you cannot install a gas fireplace in a bedroom. This is prohibited by Ontario's building code and TSSA regulations...
Is a furnace rental a good deal in Ottawa?
Furnace rentals in Ottawa are generally not a good financial deal for most homeowners. While they offer lower upfront co...
How do I choose between Nest and Ecobee?
Both Nest and Ecobee are excellent smart thermostat choices, but the best option depends on your existing smart home set...
How much does it cost to install a second zone?
Installing a second HVAC zone in Ottawa typically costs $2,500 to $5,000, depending on your existing system and the comp...
Should I get a separate dehumidifier or use my AC?
Both air conditioning and standalone dehumidifiers remove moisture, but they serve different purposes and work best in d...
Do gas fireplace inserts need their own gas line?
Most gas fireplace inserts require a dedicated gas line, though the specific requirements depend on the BTU rating of th...
When should I turn on my AC in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, you can typically start using your air conditioning when daytime temperatures consistently reach 20-22°C (68-...
How deep do ground source heat pump loops go in Ottawa?
Ground source heat pump loops in Ottawa typically go 150-200 feet deep for vertical installations, or are buried 6-8 fee...
Can I install my own ductwork without a permit?
In most cases, you can install your own ductwork in Ottawa without a permit, but there are important exceptions and cons...
Why does my ductwork make popping sounds?
Ductwork popping sounds are typically caused by thermal expansion and contraction as your HVAC system cycles on and off....
Should I run my fan continuously in summer?
Running your fan continuously in summer can provide better air circulation and comfort, but it comes with trade-offs in...
Should I get an HRV or ERV for my home?
The choice between an HRV (Heat Recovery Ventilator) and ERV (Energy Recovery Ventilator) depends on your home's humidit...
What does a furnace diagnostic call usually cost?
A furnace diagnostic call in Ottawa typically costs $150 to $250, which usually includes the service call fee and basic...
How do I check my furnace ignitor?
A faulty ignitor is one of the most common reasons furnaces won't start, but checking it requires caution since you'll b...
How do I change my furnace filter?
Changing your furnace filter is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do yourself, and it should be done e...
Do I need a high efficiency furnace in Ottawa?
You don't legally need a high-efficiency furnace in Ottawa, but it's highly recommended due to our harsh winters and ris...
Can a gas fireplace heat my whole main floor?
Gas fireplaces can provide supplemental heat for a main floor, but they typically cannot serve as the primary heating so...
What is the cost of a furnace tune up?
A furnace tune-up in Ottawa typically costs between $150 - $200 for a standard annual maintenance service. This is one o...
How much does it cost to fix a refrigerant leak?
Refrigerant leak repairs in Ottawa typically cost between $300-$800, depending on the location and severity of the leak....
What is the best duct material?
Sheet metal ducts are generally the best choice for most residential HVAC systems, offering superior durability, airflow...
Can duct cleaning help with pet allergies?
Yes, professional duct cleaning can help reduce pet allergies by removing accumulated pet dander, hair, and other allerg...
How do I keep my house cool without AC?
There are several effective ways to keep your house cool without air conditioning, especially during Ottawa's hot summer...
Why does my furnace run for only a few minutes then stop?
Your furnace running briefly then stopping is typically caused by overheating, which triggers the safety limit switch to...
Should I get ducts cleaned before moving into a new home?
Yes, getting your ducts cleaned before moving into a new home is generally a smart investment, especially if you don't k...
Why won't my furnace ignite?
A furnace that won't ignite is typically caused by issues with the gas supply, ignition system, or safety controls that...
Can I install a furnace in my attic?
Installing a furnace in an attic is technically possible but comes with significant challenges and code requirements tha...
Why does my gas fireplace glass fog up?
Gas fireplace glass fogging is typically caused by moisture in the combustion air mixing with cooler glass surfaces, cre...
Do I need a new chimney liner with a high-efficiency furnace?
Yes, you typically need a new chimney liner when upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace. High-efficiency furnaces (90%+...
What is the Canada Greener Homes Grant?
The Canada Greener Homes Grant is a federal program that provides up to $5,000 in rebates to help Canadian homeowners ma...
Is dryer vent cleaning the same as duct cleaning?
No, dryer vent cleaning and HVAC duct cleaning are completely different services that address separate systems in your h...
Does duct cleaning reduce dust in my house?
Yes, professional duct cleaning can significantly reduce dust in your home, especially if your ducts haven't been cleane...
When should I replace my humidifier pad?
Replace your humidifier pad every 1-2 months during heating season, or when it becomes hard, crusty, or discolored. A cl...
Is it cheaper to leave AC running all day?
Generally no - it's typically more cost-effective to adjust your AC temperature when you're away rather than running it...
What humidity level should my house be in winter?
Indoor humidity during Ottawa winters should be maintained between 30-40% to balance comfort, health, and protection of...
Why is my heat pump not heating in winter?
Heat pumps can struggle or stop heating in winter due to several common issues, with outdoor temperature limits and defr...
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