
Winter in Ontario can be fierce and the only way to make sure your family is warm in this weather is a reliable heating system. However, even a 5-star review furnace can malfunction if not inspected and maintained regularly. If you are dealing with a furnace repair or deciding to get furnace maintenance scheduled, understanding the difference can save you money, time, and the discomfort of having a broken furnace in the middle of a snowstorm.
In this guide, we'll dive into the essential aspects of furnace repair and furnace maintenance, explain how they impact your home and property’s heating efficiency, and have our expert Heating & Cooling technicians provide tips on how to keep your furnace running smoothly through Ontario’s coldest months.
What Is Furnace Maintenance?
Understanding what furnace maintenance means and what steps are involved is vital for any home or property owner. It is a preventative approach to make sure that your heating system is working efficiently in the colder months of Ontario. Our experts suggest carrying out furnace maintenance annually before winter arrives with a licensed HVAC technician.
Furnace maintenance includes tasks like:
Cleaning the Furnace
Changing the air filter
Lubricating moving parts
Checking the thermostat settings
Ductwork Inspection
Furnace maintenance can seem like a meager task to have on your list, but it's a determining factor for the health and performance of your furnace and reduces the chances of repairs. In Ontario, where winter temperatures can drop significantly to as low as -30, proper maintenance ensures you’re ready for the coldest months without unexpected furnace failures.
What Is Furnace Repair?
As discussed above, furnace maintenance is a preventative measure, furnace repairs, however, happen when something has already collapsed in the system. Some signs of a failed furnace could be strange noises, failing to heat your home properly, or not turning on completely.
Matthew, our HVAC expert says "Furnace repairs can be small and simple fixes like changing a thermostat that stopped working because of no maintenance but it can also look like getting a whole new part of the furnace like a blower motor which might be more expensive.”
If your furnace is showing any of these signs, its likely time to call a furnace professional:
The furnace is not heating your space anymore. This usually happens when the furnace has a damaged thermostat, air filters clogged with dust and debris, or a faulty gas valve.
Unusual noises upon turning the furnace on. Some contributors to this issue can be loose parts, a dysfunctioning motor, or simply just build-up dirt.
If your furnace turns on and off regularly, it indicates an issue with the thermostat, motor, or other internal components.
A significant increase in your electricity bill. A faulty furnace works overtime and ends up consuming more energy than usual.
If the pilot light or ignition system is malfunctioning, your furnace won’t be able to produce heat.
Prioritizing a furnace repair as an urgent matter is important. Neglecting small issues can lead to further damage, and in certain cases, you might end up needing to replace your entire heating system. Quick repairs can save you money in the long run and ensure your loved ones stay warm.
Furnace Maintenance vs. Furnace Repair

How to Choose the Right Service for Furnace Repair and Maintenance
The internet is full of cases of property accidents caused by the hiring the wrong service providers or because of using subpar furnace parts. It is important to ensure that you are choosing the right service for furnace maintenance and repair and your safety is in safe hands.
Here are some things to look for:
Certifications and licensing: Ensure the company employs certified HVAC technicians who are knowledgeable about furnace systems. Proper licensing guarantees that they are qualified to handle repairs and maintenance. Some of the licenses you need to look out for are for GAS Professionals (G1, G2, G3), Oil Burner Specialists (OBT1 and OBT2), and HVAC Technicians ( Residential Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic 313D license.
Experience and reputation: Search for service providers with years of experience in the industry. Check Google reviews and testimonials to see what previous customers have to say about their services. Always go for the service providers with a loyal and long-term clientele. It ensures that they have clients who love going back for their services and are happy with them.
Transparent pricing: A reputable service provider will offer clear, transparent pricing. Avoid companies that offer extremely low rates, as they may be cutting corners. The goal is to save money but not at the expense of long-term damages.
To keep your home warm in Ontario's snowstorms,It’s important to ensure that your furnace is getting regular maintenance and repairs. Regular furnace maintenance will prevent the furnace from breaking down and on-time repairs take away the worry of any issues left unfixed. By being regular about furnace maintenance and furnace repairs, you can enjoy a worry-free life in a warm and cozy home the entire winter with no massive energy charges.
If you haven't had your furnace serviced recently, now is the perfect time to schedule an inspection. Whether you need routine maintenance or a furnace repair, a professional service will ensure your system is ready for whatever winter throws your way.

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