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Exploring the most common questions customers have about HVAC repairs and installations, our blog provides clear and helpful answers to make understanding your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems easier. Whether you’re dealing with a broken furnace, need advice on air conditioner maintenance, or want to know what to expect during an installation, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and insights.
Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia
It might sound strange, but turning your air conditioner on and off all day could be costing you more than just letting it run. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we’ve seen how smart use of your AC system can actually save you money , keep your home more comfortable, and help your HVAC system last longer. 🌀 Why “Always On” Isn’t Always Bad Many homeowners in Orillia turn their AC off completely when they leave the house or head to bed—thinking they’ll save energy. But that stop-and-go approach can actually make your system work harder. Here’s why running your AC more consistently can help: 1. Less Wear and Tear Starting and stopping the system over and over adds stress. A steady, consistent cycle reduces wear on parts and extends your system’s lifespan. 2. More Efficient Cooling It takes more energy to cool down a hot house than it does to maintain a steady temperature. Keeping your home just a few degrees cooler throughout the day is often cheaper in the long run. 3. Better Humidity Control ACs also remove moisture from the air. If your unit runs for only short bursts, it might not run long enough to reduce humidity—which can lead to discomfort and even mold. 4. Comfort Without the Spikes A steady indoor temperature avoids those “too hot, too cold” cycles. Your home stays consistently comfortable without big swings. Pro Tip: Use a Programmable Thermostat Set your thermostat to cool while you're home and adjust slightly when you're away—don’t turn it off completely. A smart thermostat makes this automatic, efficient, and simple. Watch: Why Leaving the AC On Might Be Cheaper (" S hould You Leave Your Air Conditioner Running All Day?" – FOX 26 Houston)
Summer in Orillia can get hot fast—but blasting your AC all day isn’t your only option. At Mr. Heat Furnace Repair Orillia , we’ve helped many local families stay cool with simple, smart strategies. Try these easy home cooling hacks to stay comfortable while saving energy. 1. Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way Ceiling fans don’t cool the air—they move it. In the summer, make sure your fan spins counterclockwise to push cool air down and create a breeze. 2. Keep Blinds and Curtains Closed During the Day Sunlight heats your home quickly. Closing curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day can drop indoor temps by several degrees. 3. Open Windows at Night When temperatures cool down in the evening, open windows to let fresh air in. Close them again in the morning to trap the cooler air inside. 4. Avoid Using the Oven Cooking indoors can raise your home's temperature. Use your BBQ or prepare cold meals on extra-hot days to keep your kitchen from heating up your house. 5. Switch to LED Bulbs Old lightbulbs give off heat. Replacing them with LEDs not only saves energy but keeps your home cooler too. 6. Book a Summer HVAC Tune-Up A poorly maintained air conditioner can cost more to run and cool your home less effectively. A quick HVAC tune-up in Orillia from our team can fix that. Skip the TikTok AC Hacks Some viral videos suggest using ice in front of fans or building homemade AC units. These might seem fun, but they’re often ineffective—and sometimes unsafe. Stick with trusted, professional cooling tips instead. From proper AC maintenance to energy-saving tips, we’re here to help you stay cool, safe, and stress-free all summer long. Contact Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia today for fast, friendly HVAC service, expert advice, or a summer tune-up that keeps your home running right.
If you’re still using an old manual thermostat, you could be wasting energy—and money. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we recommend upgrading to a smart thermostat , especially in the summer months. These small devices can make a big difference in how comfortable your home feels and how much you spend on cooling. What Is a Smart Thermostat? A smart thermostat is a modern device that lets you control your heating and cooling from your phone, tablet, or computer. Many smart models also learn your schedule, adjust automatically, and help you track energy usage. How a Smart Thermostat Helps in Summer Here are the top benefits for homeowners in Orillia: 1. Lower Energy Bills Smart thermostats raise the temperature when you're not home and cool things down before you return—saving energy without sacrificing comfort. 2. Remote Control from Anywhere Whether you're at the cottage or grocery store, you can adjust your home temperature right from your phone. 3. Weekly Energy Reports Most smart thermostats show how much energy you use and give suggestions to help you save even more. 4. Easy Scheduling Set up a cooling schedule that fits your lifestyle. For example, cooler in the evening for sleep and warmer when you’re out. 5. Better Comfort, Automatically Some thermostats learn your habits and adjust without you having to do anything. Top Brands We Recommend At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we often install: Nest Learning Thermostat ecobee SmartThermostat Honeywell T-Series Smart Thermostat We can help you choose the best model for your home and set it up for maximum efficiency. Watch: Smart Thermostat Benefits Explained ("W h y Smart Thermostats are a Smart Choice" – Energy Upgrade California)
Summer is beautiful in Orillia, but those rising temperatures can also raise your energy bill. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we help homeowners stay cool without spending a fortune. These simple HVAC tips can cut your cooling costs and make your system last longer. 1. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat A smart thermostat adjusts your cooling when you're not home, helping you save energy without lifting a finger. Set it a few degrees higher while you’re away to cut costs. 2. Close Blinds and Curtains During the Day Direct sunlight heats up your home fast. Close your blinds during the hottest part of the day to keep your rooms cooler naturally. 3. Use Ceiling Fans the Right Way Fans don’t cool the air—they move it. Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer to push cool air downward. This makes your home feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. 4. Keep Vents and Filters Clean Blocked vents or dirty air filters make your system work harder. Make sure furniture isn't covering vents and replace filters every 1–2 months during summer. 5. Shade the Outdoor AC Unit Your AC will run more efficiently if it’s in a shaded area. Plant a bush nearby or add a small awning—but leave plenty of space around it for airflow. 6. Seal Air Leaks in Your Home Cool air can escape through small cracks around doors and windows. Use weather stripping or caulking to keep the cool in and the heat out. 7. Schedule a Summer Tune-Up Regular maintenance helps your system run better and avoid surprise breakdowns. At Mr. Heat Furnace Repair Orillia , we offer affordable AC tune-ups to keep things running smoothly. Watch: Energy Saving Tips for Summer ("Tips to Reduce Energy Bill During the Summer Months" – PECO Energy Company)
When summer rolls into Orillia, your air conditioner becomes one of the most important parts of your home. To keep your system running smoothly all season long, the team at Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia has put together this list of 10 simple HVAC tips you should follow before the real heat arrives. 1. Change Your Air Filter A clean air filter helps your system run better and keeps your indoor air fresh. Replace it every 1–2 months during summer. 2. Test the Thermostat Turn your system to “cool” and make sure the AC kicks in. If it doesn't, call for a tune-up before things get hot. 3. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat A programmable thermostat can save you money by cooling your home only when you need it. 4. Clear the Outdoor Unit Cut back any weeds or plants around your AC. Leave at least 2 feet of space for proper airflow. 5. Rinse the Condenser Coils Use a garden hose to gently rinse off dirt and debris from the outdoor coils. This boosts efficiency and cooling power. 6. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up A summer HVAC check-up in Orillia ensures your system is ready for the season. We’ll check all parts, clean coils, inspect refrigerant levels, and more. 7. Seal Doors and Windows Keep the cool air in and hot air out. Use weather stripping and check for drafts. 8. Open All Vents Blocked vents reduce airflow and make your system work harder. Keep furniture and rugs away from vents and registers. 9. Check the Drain Line Your AC’s drain line can clog with dirt or algae. Flush it with a bit of white vinegar or call us to clean it professionally. 10. Plan Ahead for Repairs If your system is older or hasn’t been serviced in a while, don’t wait for a breakdown. Get a check-up early and avoid emergencies. Watch: Top HVAC Tips for Summer ("10 Essential HVAC Maintenance Tips for a Cool Summer" – HVAC Guide for Homeowners)
If your air conditioner isn’t cooling as well as it used to, dirty condenser coils might be the reason. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we often find that cleaning the AC’s outside unit is one of the easiest ways to improve performance and save on energy bills. What Are Condenser Coils? Your air conditioner’s condenser coils are found in the outdoor unit. These coils release heat collected from your home into the outside air. But when they get covered in dust, leaves, or grass clippings, they can’t do their job properly. Why Clean Coils Matter in Summer Dirty coils force your system to work harder, which: Lowers cooling efficiency Raises your energy bills Increases wear and tear Can lead to early system failure If you want your Orillia AC system to last and stay energy-efficient, cleaning the coils each summer is a must. How to Clean Your AC’s Condenser Coils (Safely) 1. Turn Off Power Always turn off the AC system at the breaker box for safety. 2. Clear Debris Around the Unit Remove sticks, leaves, weeds, and anything blocking airflow around the outdoor unit. 3. Remove the Top Grille (Optional) If you feel comfortable, unscrew the top and gently lift the fan out of the way—being careful not to tug on wires. 4. Use a Garden Hose Spray the coils from the inside out with a garden hose (not pressure washer!). Gently rinse away dirt, avoiding damage to the fins. 5. Reassemble and Turn It On Once everything is dry, reattach the fan cover and turn the power back on. Watch: How to Clean Your AC Condenser ("H o w to Clean Your Air Conditioner Condenser Unit" – Word of Advice TV)
Hot summer days in Orillia mean your air conditioner is working overtime. But are you using your HVAC system the right way? At Mr. Heat Furnace Repair Orillia , we often see common mistakes that can raise your energy bills or even damage your system. Here are the top 5 summer HVAC mistakes to avoid —and how to fix them! ❌ Mistake #1: Not Changing Your Air Filter A clogged air filter can block airflow, making your system work harder and wear out faster. It also spreads dust and allergens in your home. ✅ Fix: Change your filter every 1 to 2 months during summer. If you have pets or allergies, check it more often. ❌ Mistake #2: Closing Air Vents in Unused Rooms Many people think closing vents saves money. But it actually throws off the balance of your system and can increase pressure, which leads to leaks or breakdowns. ✅ Fix: Keep all vents open and clear. Let air flow evenly through your home. ❌ Mistake #3: Ignoring Thermostat Settings Setting your thermostat too low or constantly adjusting it can waste energy and confuse your system. ✅ Fix: Set it between 24°C–26°C (75°F–78°F) when you're home, and higher when you're away. A programmable or smart thermostat is a great way to save money. ❌ Mistake #4: Skipping Summer HVAC Maintenance Without regular maintenance, small problems go unnoticed—until your system breaks down on the hottest day of the year. ✅ Fix: Book a summer HVAC tune-up in Orillia with Mr. Heat Furnace Repair. We’ll check for issues and keep your AC running efficiently. ❌ Mistake #5: Blocking the Outdoor AC Unit Grass, leaves, and even patio furniture can block the outdoor unit, which needs good airflow to work properly. ✅ Fix: Keep at least 2 feet of clear space around your outdoor unit. Hose it down gently to remove dirt and dust. Watch: Common Summer HVAC Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 📺 Watch on YouTube ("5 BIGGEST Summer HVAC Mistakes Homeowners Don't Know!" – Fox Family Heating and Air)
Your furnace may get a break during the summer, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. At Mr. Heat Furnace Repair Orillia , we recommend taking a few simple steps to shut down your furnace properly so it stays in good shape for the next cold season. A little care now can prevent problems—and save you money—later. Why Shut Down Your Furnace for Summer? Even when you’re not using your furnace, dust and moisture can build up and cause wear. Taking the time to clean and prep your furnace helps: Prevent damage and rust Save energy Extend the life of your heating system Catch small problems before they turn into big repairs 5 Simple Steps to Shut Down Your Furnace 1. Turn Off the Pilot Light or Power If you have a gas furnace, turn off the pilot light to save energy. For electric furnaces, flip the power switch on the unit or shut off the breaker to cut power. 2. Change the Furnace Filter Even in the off-season, a dirty filter can affect air quality and clog the system. Swap it out now so it’s fresh and ready for fall. 3. Clean Around the Unit Vacuum dust and wipe down the outside of the furnace. Clear away any boxes, furniture, or clutter near the unit to help airflow and safety. 4. Check for Leaks or Strange Smells Look for signs of moisture, rust, or a musty smell. If anything seems off, give us a call for a quick inspection. 5. Schedule a Pre-Fall Tune-Up Book a furnace inspection in Orillia before fall arrives. Our local HVAC experts will make sure everything is working right so you’re not caught off guard when the cold weather comes back. Watch: How to Prepare Your Furnace for Summer Here’s a helpful video that walks you through a few of these steps:
Even though you're not using your furnace during the summer, it still needs a little attention. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we recommend giving your furnace a proper summer shutdown to keep it in top shape for the next heating season. These simple tricks can help you avoid problems and save money in the long run. Why Shut Down Your Furnace for Summer? Shutting down your furnace when the warm weather arrives: Saves energy Reduces wear and tear Prevents dust and moisture buildup Helps you spot issues early before next winter hits 5 Easy Furnace Shutdown Tricks 1. Turn Off the Furnace Power or Gas Supply If your furnace has a power switch, turn it off. For gas furnaces, shut off the gas valve near the unit to save fuel and improve safety. 2. Clean or Replace the Furnace Filter Even though the furnace isn’t running, dust can build up. A clean filter prevents stale air and keeps your system ready for next season. 3. Vacuum Around the Furnace Dust, pet hair, and dirt collect over time. Gently vacuum around the base of the furnace and nearby floor area. 4. Inspect for Signs of Trouble Look for signs of rust, leaks, or strange smells. Finding problems early gives you time to fix them before the cold weather returns. 5. Schedule a Fall Tune-Up Now Beat the rush! Booking your furnace maintenance in advance ensures your system is ready before the first chill hits Orillia. Watch: Tips for Turning Off Your Furnace for Summer ("H o w to Prepare Your Furnace for Summer" – KDM Gas)
When the hot summer days hit Orillia, the last thing you want is a broken air conditioner. At Mr. Heat Furnace Repair Orillia , we’re here to help you keep your home cool and comfortable with these simple summer HVAC maintenance tips . Taking care of your cooling system can help prevent breakdowns and save you money on energy bills. Why Summer HVAC Maintenance Matters in Orillia Orillia summers can be hot and humid, which means your air conditioner works hard every day. Just like a car needs regular oil changes, your HVAC system needs maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Regular upkeep helps: Improve energy efficiency Lower cooling costs Prevent surprise repairs Extend the life of your system Easy Summer HVAC Tips You Can Do Here are simple steps you can take to keep your system in top shape this summer: 1. Change the Air Filter Your air filter traps dust and dirt. A dirty filter can block airflow and make your system work harder. Change it every 1-2 months in the summer. 2. Check the Thermostat Settings Make sure your thermostat is working properly. Set it to “cool” and keep the temperature comfortable. If you have a smart thermostat, program it to save energy when you're not home. 3. Clear Vents and Registers Walk through your house and make sure all vents are open and not blocked by furniture. This helps cool air flow freely. 4. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit Your outdoor AC unit needs space to breathe. Clear away grass, leaves, and debris around it. Use a garden hose to gently rinse off dirt from the coils. 5. Listen for Strange Sounds If your system starts making loud or strange noises, it could be a sign something’s wrong. Don’t ignore it—call a professional for help. When to Call Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia If your air conditioner isn’t cooling well, or if it’s making odd noises or smells, it’s time to call in the pros. Our local HVAC experts in Orillia are ready to inspect your system and fix any issues before they get worse Watch: Quick Summer A/C Maintenance Tips Here's a short video showing a few of the tips we mentioned above:
