Heating & Furnaces FAQs

Poor attic insulation drives up heating costs and causes ice damming. A quick inspection now can save you money all winter long.

Protect your outdoor AC unit from ice, debris, and harsh winter weather with a breathable cover — it extends the life of your equipment significantly.

Blocked gutters cause ice dams and water damage. Clean them out before the first freeze to protect your roof, fascia, and foundation.

Dirty filters make your system work harder and can lead to breakdowns. Check and replace them every 1–3 months, especially when your heating system is running daily.

A professional inspection ensures your furnace runs efficiently all season – and catches small problems before they become expensive ones.

It is recommended to flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup. This maintains optimal performance and helps prevent leaks, which cause 69% of water heater failures.

Unusual noises, lack of hot water, or pilot light issues are signs that your boiler needs repair. Annual maintenance is recommended to prevent these unexpected breakdowns during cold Alberta winters.

Immediately evacuate, do not use any electrical switches, and call your gas company or emergency services from a safe distance. Do not re-enter until it is declared safe by a professional.

Ensure the area around your furnace or boiler is clean, provide a clear pathway from the door to the equipment, and keep pets safely in another part of the home.

No, duct cleaning is not part of a standard precision tune-up, but Bear Care Club members are eligible for a 10% discount on duct cleaning services.

Two-stage heating allows a furnace to use a lower heat output for milder days and a high setting for extreme cold. This provides more even heat distribution and better efficiency.

Look for abnormally high heating bills or inconsistent temperatures between rooms. If your house isn’t reaching the desired thermostat temperature, it’s time to have a professional inspect the system.

While it varies based on pets and allergies, you should check your filter monthly. A good rule of thumb is to change it every three months at an absolute minimum to prevent your furnace from working too hard and wasting energy.

Check your furnace documentation for the correct size and consult a technician to ensure the filter’s efficiency (MERV rating) is compatible with your motor to prevent premature failure.

Fuses and breakers should not trip under normal use. If it happens repeatedly, it could indicate a weak breaker, loose wiring, or a compressor issue; you should contact a licensed AC contractor immediately.

Bruin’s representatives typically contact Bear Care Club members between February and August to schedule upcoming annual services.

You should service your AC at least once a year. For basic maintenance, ensure the power is off, remove debris like leaves from the outdoor unit, and rinse the coils with a garden hose.

These are common problems that indicate your unit needs professional attention. Contact a licensed contractor to diagnose issues like loose parts, clogged drains, or ice buildup before they lead to a full breakdown.

Yes; parts wear out and components get dirty over time. Regular servicing helps your unit run smoothly and improves its efficiency during peak summer heat

You can lower power usage by turning the thermostat up when you’re away, cleaning air filters regularly, and using a programmable or smart thermostat to cool only when needed.