Heating Services in London, ON

How Often Should I Schedule Heating System Maintenance?

No matter what type of heating equipment you have, your system needs regular preventative maintenance to stay in great shape. We typically recommend a professional maintenance check at least once a year. This annual inspection should ideally be scheduled in the autumn, just before the colder months when your heating system will be in constant use. 

During this inspection, we can confirm your equipment is prepared to perform at its best to minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns during the winter. Regular maintenance also helps to identify and address any minor problems before they escalate into emergencies requiring expensive repairs.

For boilers, yearly maintenance includes inspecting and cleaning critical components, such as the burner, heat exchanger, and pressure relief valve. This check also involves examining the boiler's overall performance, including the flue and venting system, to verify that there are no blockages that could cause dangerous carbon monoxide build-up. 

Furnaces also benefit from annual inspections. During a furnace maintenance check, one of our professionals will typically address components such as the burners, blower motor, heat exchanger, and ignition system. We will also replace or clean the air filters, which is crucial for maintaining proper airflow and ensuring the system does not overwork itself.

In some cases, more frequent maintenance may be necessary, depending on the specific needs of your heating system or the environment in which it operates. For example, homes in particularly dusty or humid areas might benefit from more regular filter changes or additional inspections. If you use your heating system extensively, scheduling biannual check-ups can provide an added layer of assurance that your system remains in peak condition. Our team at M&K Heating & Air Conditioning can help determine the appropriate maintenance schedule.

Does My Home’s Heating System Need Repairs?

Whether you rely on a boiler or a furnace for home heating, you should be aware of the warning signs that your equipment needs professional repairs. Addressing potential issues sooner rather than later can help protect your comfort as well as your safety. 

Do not wait to request our services if you encounter any of the following problems:

• Unusual noises. If you hear banging, clanging, or whistling sounds coming from your boiler or furnace, something is probably wrong. These noises can stem from a variety of issues, such as loose components, ignition problems, or sediment buildup within the unit.
• Inconsistent heating. If some rooms in your home are warm while others are cold, your heating system might be experiencing issues. Inconsistent heating often points to problems like clogged filters, ductwork obstructions, or malfunctioning thermostats.
• Increased energy bills. A sudden spike in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in usage can be a sign of an inefficient heating system. Over time, wear and tear can cause boilers and furnaces to work harder to produce the same amount of heat, leading to higher energy consumption.
• Frequent cycling. If your heating system is constantly turning on and off, it may be due to short cycling. This can occur for several reasons, including thermostat malfunctions, airflow obstructions, or issues with the heat exchanger.
• Yellow or flickering flame. For gas furnaces, the burner flame should be steady and blue. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate incomplete combustion, which means your furnace might be producing carbon monoxide, a hazardous gas. This problem requires immediate professional attention.
• Water leaks: Puddles or damp areas around your boiler or furnace are clear signs of trouble and often indicate issues like valve leaks, pressure problems, or corrosion in the unit.
• Unusual smells. If you notice strange odours when your heating system is running, such as a burning smell or the scent of gas, you should turn off the system and contact a professional immediately. These smells can indicate serious issues like electrical problems or gas leaks.

What Heating System Is Right for Me?

When choosing a heating system for your home, it’s essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps. Each of these systems differs in terms of efficiency, cost, and suitability for different home heating needs: 

• Furnaces can rapidly heat up a home, making them ideal for those who prefer immediate warmth. Modern high-efficiency furnaces can convert a high percentage of fuel into heat, reducing energy consumption. Furnaces can use various fuel sources, including natural gas, propane, and electricity. Gas furnaces tend to be more cost-effective in terms of monthly operating costs, while electric furnaces can be ideal for homes without gas lines. However, furnaces are known for causing dry air, so you may need to install a humidifier to maintain comfort levels. Furnaces, especially older models, can also be noisy when operating.
• Boilers generally provide even and consistent heat. Unlike furnaces, they usually operate relatively quietly. Boilers with radiators or in-floor radiant heating systems can provide zonal heating, allowing different areas of the home to be heated to different temperatures. With that said, boilers are typically more expensive to install than furnaces. They also take longer to heat up a home.
• Heat pumps are an increasingly popular choice due to their energy efficiency and environmental benefits. One of the major pros of installing a heat pump is its ability to transfer heat rather than generate it, which can result in significantly lower energy consumption compared to traditional heating and cooling systems. This can lead to reduced utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint. Additionally, heat pumps offer versatility as they can be used for both heating in the winter and cooling in the summer, providing year-round comfort. However, the initial installation cost of a heat pump can be higher than other systems, and their efficiency can decrease in extremely cold climates, potentially requiring a supplemental heating source. 
• Hybrid heating systems, which combine a traditional furnace with a heat pump, offer a balanced approach to home heating by leveraging the strengths of both technologies. One of the main advantages of hybrid heating systems is their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The heat pump can handle moderate heating needs efficiently, reducing energy consumption and costs, while the furnace can kick in during extremely cold conditions to ensure consistent warmth. This dual operation allows for optimized energy use, potentially resulting in lower utility bills and reduced environmental impact. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. The initial installation cost for a hybrid system can be relatively high due to the complexity and need for integrating two different systems. Additionally, maintenance requirements can be more demanding, as both the heat pump and furnace need regular servicing to ensure optimal performance. Despite these drawbacks, the flexibility and efficiency of hybrid heating systems make them an attractive option for many homeowners.

Ultimately, deciding which heating system is right for your home depends on a number of factors, including the size of your property, your usage patterns, your budget, and more. When deciding on a new installation or replacement, our team will first take the time to look at the specifics of your property and get to know your individual preferences. We will then offer our advice and a number of options to help you make an informed decision about your home comfort. 

Schedule a free estimate to learn more about our heating services in London, ON, and the surrounding areas. Reach out online or call (226) 210-0916 for same- and next-day availability.