Orillia winters hit hard—and when temperatures drop suddenly, many homeowners notice the same problem: their homes just don’t seem to hold heat. Rooms feel drafty, the furnace runs constantly, and heating bills spike. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we see these HVAC Orillia issues every year, and most of them have simple explanations that can be fixed before the coldest months arrive. 1. Furnace filters clogged with winter dust By December, most furnaces in Orillia have been running hard for weeks. Filters clog fast, making the system work overtime and reducing heat output. Changing your filter every 1–2 months can make a massive difference. 2. Leaky ductwork letting warm air escape Homes in Orillia—especially older properties—are known for worn or poorly sealed ductwork. Warm air leaks into basements or walls instead of your living space. A quick duct inspection can recover a surprising amount of lost heat. 3. Thermostat problems in temperature-sensitive areas Installing a thermostat near a cold draft, window, or door can cause your furnace to cycle incorrectly. Homeowners often think the furnace is the issue when it’s actually the thermostat placement. 4. The furnace itself is aging A furnace nearing the end of its lifespan will struggle to keep up during extreme cold snaps. If your system is 15–20 years old, inconsistent heat is a big warning sign. How Mr. Heat Orillia Helps We diagnose heat loss issues from every angle—furnace, ducts, airflow, thermostat placement, and home efficiency. A quick winter tune-up or furnace repair Orillia can stabilize temperatures, reduce energy use, and give you peace of mind all season long. Contact us for fast service!
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.
How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Orillia Home
November 21, 2025
If your Orillia furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, choosing a new one can feel overwhelming. The right furnace keeps your home warm, runs efficiently, and suits your budget and climate. Here is what homeowners in Orillia and Simcoe County should consider before buying.
1. Fuel Type
- Natural Gas: The most common and cost-effective option in Orillia.
- Propane: Ideal for rural properties without natural gas lines.
- Electric: Clean and simple, though typically more expensive to run.
2. Efficiency Rating
Furnace efficiency is measured by AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency).
- Standard models: 80–90% AFUE
- High-efficiency models: 95–98% AFUE
A higher AFUE means more heat from every fuel dollar, making it ideal for long Ontario winters.
3. Proper Sizing
Bigger is not better. An oversized furnace will cycle on and off too often, reducing efficiency and comfort. A professional load calculation considers your home’s insulation, size, and window type to ensure perfect sizing.
4. Advanced Features
Look for two-stage burners, variable-speed motors, and compatibility with smart thermostats for better control and quieter operation. Some Orillia homeowners may also qualify for rebates when installing high-efficiency systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know it’s time to replace my furnace?
If your unit is over 15 years old, struggles to heat evenly, or your bills keep rising, replacement is likely more cost-effective.
Is a high-efficiency furnace worth it?
Yes. It lowers monthly costs and provides steady, comfortable heat throughout Simcoe County winters.
Can I install a furnace myself?
No. Professional installation ensures safety, compliance, and warranty protection.
Trust the Local Experts
For expert installation, maintenance, or furnace replacement, turn to Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia. Our team understands local building requirements, rebate programs, and the demands of Ontario’s climate.
Call
705-413-2057 today to schedule a free furnace consultation.
