Winter is our busiest season at Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , and year after year, we see the same types of furnace failures once temperatures drop below freezing. If you’re a homeowner in Orillia, here are the issues most likely to affect you: 1. Faulty Flame Sensors Flame sensors get coated in carbon from heavy winter use, causing the furnace to shut down repeatedly. A quick cleaning usually solves the issue. 2. Blower Motor Problems When the blower motor wears out, homeowners hear grinding, humming, or squealing noises. In winter, motors work harder and failures become common. 3. Pressure Switch Failures This small but crucial part detects airflow inside your furnace. When it fails—or when vent pipes get blocked—the furnace won’t start. 4. Limit Switch Trips If your furnace overheats (often from a clogged filter), the limit switch triggers a safety shutdown. These repeated trips can eventually wear it out. 5. Thermostat Malfunctions Old thermostats often misread temperatures in cold weather, causing short cycling or heat loss. Why Winter Repairs Are More Urgent Cold temperatures make minor issues escalate quickly. A furnace working at 50% capacity in November can fail completely during January’s cold snaps. At Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia , we prioritize fast winter response, same-day repairs, and honest pricing—because no homeowner should be left without heat.
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!
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.
How to Prepare Your Orillia Home for a Harsh Winter (Expert HVAC Checklist)
December 11, 2025
Orillia winters can be unpredictable—one day mild, the next extremely cold. The best way to avoid emergency furnace calls is to prepare your HVAC system before the season hits its peak.
Here’s a homeowner-friendly checklist used by the technicians at Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia:
1. Replace your furnace filter before the temperature drops
A fresh filter improves airflow, reduces energy bills, and helps prevent overheating shutdowns.
2. Schedule a fall furnace tune-up
Tune-ups catch early signs of ignition issues, blower problems, cracked hoses, and worn components—all of which commonly fail during heavy winter use.
3. Clear snow and ice from exterior vents
High-efficiency furnace vent pipes can freeze easily. Keeping them clear ensures your system runs safely.
4. Test your thermostat settings
Make sure your thermostat responds properly and is placed away from cold drafts.
5. Seal windows and doors
Even the best furnace can’t compensate for major heat loss around windows and doorframes. Weatherstripping and caulking can drastically reduce heating costs.
6. Listen for unusual furnace sounds
Banging, rattling, or grinding noises are early indicators of a mechanical failure.
Why It Matters
Preventative work saves Orillia homeowners hundreds of dollars in avoided breakdowns and keeps your home consistently warm through the coldest storms.
If you want peace of mind this winter, Mr. Heat Furnace Orillia can perform a complete winter-readiness check to make sure your system is prepared for whatever the season brings.
Contact us today for fast HVAC services!
