Keeping your home warm in an Orillia winter can be costly, but small changes make a big difference. With rising energy prices, homeowners are increasingly searching for ways to reduce heating costs without sacrificing comfort. The good news is that most savings start with furnace efficiency. Simple Ways to Reduce Heating Bills Change your furnace filter regularly. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder. Keep vents clear. Open and unobstructed registers allow even heat distribution throughout your home. Upgrade your thermostat. Programmable or smart thermostats automatically lower temperatures when you are away or asleep, saving up to 10% annually. Seal air leaks. Use weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows to prevent drafts. Have your furnace inspected annually. A tuned furnace runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Energy-Efficiency and Furnace Replacement Older furnaces (15–20 years) often operate at only 60–70% efficiency. Modern high-efficiency furnaces achieve up to 98% AFUE, converting almost all fuel into heat. If your system is aging, upgrading may lower your monthly bills and qualify for Ontario energy rebates. Frequently Asked Questions What thermostat temperature is most efficient? Set your thermostat between 20–21°C when home and lower it 3–4°C while sleeping or away. Will upgrading my filter help efficiency? Yes, but ensure proper airflow. Overly dense filters can strain the system if replaced incorrectly. Is furnace replacement worth it? If your unit is older than 15 years or requires frequent repairs, upgrading to a high-efficiency model can reduce long-term costs. Save Energy, Stay Comfortable At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , our licensed technicians can help you lower your heating costs through maintenance, efficiency upgrades, and expert advice. Call 705-413-2057 to schedule your furnace tune-up or efficiency assessment today.
Strange noises or unfamiliar odours coming from your furnace are never pleasant — and they are often a sign that something needs attention. Understanding what these signals mean can help you act quickly and avoid bigger repairs down the road. Common Furnace Noises and What They Mean Squealing or screeching: Often caused by a worn-out blower belt or motor bearing. Banging or booming: Could be delayed ignition or expanding ductwork. Have this inspected immediately, as it can indicate a combustion issue. Rattling or vibrating: Loose panels, screws, or parts inside the blower housing. Clicking: Normal when the furnace starts up, but repeated clicking could mean an ignition problem. Furnace Smells Explained Dusty or burning smell: Normal the first time you turn the furnace on each season; it should fade quickly. Rotten egg or sulphur smell: This indicates a possible gas leak — evacuate the home and call your gas company or Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia immediately. Musty or damp odour: May indicate mould growth in ductwork or a clogged air filter. Electrical or metallic smell: Can signal overheating or wiring problems. When to Call a Professional If noises grow louder or smells persist beyond the first few minutes of operation, it is best to have a certified technician investigate. Delaying service can lead to further damage or safety risks. Frequently Asked Questions Why does my furnace make noise when starting up? Some noise is normal, but if it is new, loud, or constant, call for service. Is a burning smell dangerous? If it disappears after the first few minutes, it is likely harmless. If it lingers, turn off your system and have it checked. Can I run my furnace if it smells odd? No. If you suspect gas or electrical issues, shut off power to the furnace and call a professional immediately. Local Service You Can Trust Furnace noises and smells are common in older Orillia homes and can worsen as temperatures fluctuate. Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia provides fast, dependable diagnostics and repairs throughout Simcoe County to keep your system safe and efficient. Call 705-413-2057 or book your furnace inspection online.
As the crisp air settles over Orillia and Simcoe County, the coming winter means one thing for homeowners — it is time to ensure your furnace is ready. The last thing anyone wants is to discover a malfunctioning heating system on the first freezing night of the season. Preparing your furnace before the cold hits can prevent costly repairs, save energy, and keep your home safely warm all winter long. Why a Furnace Tune-Up Matters Winters in Orillia can be harsh and unpredictable. Regular furnace maintenance ensures that every component is working efficiently and safely. Annual tune-ups reduce the risk of sudden breakdowns, improve heating performance, and help your system last longer. Neglecting your furnace until temperatures plummet often leads to emergency repairs, higher energy bills, and potential safety risks like carbon monoxide leaks. Your Pre-Winter Furnace Checklist Replace or clean the air filter. This is one of the simplest and most effective steps to keep airflow strong and energy use low. Inspect your thermostat. Confirm that it reads accurately and responds quickly to temperature adjustments. Clear supply and return vents. Keep them free from furniture, rugs, or drapes that may restrict circulation. Check your carbon monoxide detector. Replace batteries and test functionality — this is vital for safety. Inspect the outdoor intake and exhaust pipes. Remove snow, debris, or insect nests that may block ventilation. Schedule a professional inspection. A certified technician from Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia can clean burners, check gas pressure, test the heat exchanger, and verify safe operation. Frequently Asked Questions How often should I service my furnace? Once a year — ideally in the fall before consistent cold weather sets in. Can I perform maintenance myself? You can replace filters and clear vents, but internal cleaning and combustion testing should be left to professionals. What if I smell gas or see an orange flame? Turn off the system immediately and call a qualified HVAC technician. These are potential signs of unsafe combustion. Stay Warm and Worry-Free Beat the rush and schedule your furnace tune-up before the first frost. Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia provides trusted, local heating services that keep homes across Orillia, Severn, and Oro-Medonte warm all winter long. Call 705-413-2057 to book your seasonal maintenance today.
End-of-Season Furnace Shutdown Tricks for Orillia Homeowners
June 30, 2025
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
("How to Prepare Your Furnace for Summer" – KDM Gas)
Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered
If you’re not sure how to safely shut down your furnace—or just want a pro to take a look—call the experts at Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia. We’ll inspect your system, clean it up, and make sure it’s ready for next season.
Contact us today to schedule a furnace check-up or book early for your fall furnace service in Orillia!
