Ensuring thermal comfort and safety in your commercial buildings inevitably requires a reliable, high-performing, and energy-efficient heating system. At AirGreen, we intervene every week in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore to help building managers, small businesses, and commercial space owners transition to modern heating systems, which are often much more advantageous than trying to prolong the life of an aging unit. This article reveals the 5 major signs that clearly indicate it’s time to replace rather than repair your old heating system.
Thermal comfort is becoming inconsistent
One of the first symptoms of an aging heating system is irregular temperature. Are you noticing rooms colder than others? Sudden temperature fluctuations even when the thermostat is steady? These are signs of internal wear, often involving the burner, heat exchanger, or air circulation. These issues harm occupant comfort and reduce your building’s energy performance.
At AirGreen, we recently replaced an old forced-air system in a commercial building in Laval. Clients were complaining about freezing offices upstairs and overheating on the ground floor. After a thorough assessment, we installed a Bosch BOVA IDS Premium 36,000 BTU central system with inverter technology, which resolved all comfort issues… and cut the energy bill by 30%.
Frequent and costly repairs
A system that needs repeated service calls is starting to cost more than replacing it would. An old gas furnace, for example, can suffer from recurring issues like thermocouple failure, fan problems, cracked heat exchanger, or control board malfunctions. Each service call becomes an additional expense for a system that’s becoming less reliable.
We were called to Longueuil, at a logistics warehouse, where a 20-year-old hot water boiler had required three repairs in under 12 months. Our diagnosis was clear: replacement was necessary. We installed a FUJITSU Airstage KZAH R-32 48,000 BTU central heat pump, compatible with their hydronic setup. Result: a drastic drop in maintenance costs, improved reliability, and eligibility for a $4,375 grant through Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert program.
A significant increase in energy bills
Heating system efficiency has advanced tremendously over the past decade. If your unit dates back to before 2010, it likely consumes 25% to 40% more than a current ENERGY STAR-certified model. A standard furnace might run at 70% efficiency, while modern condensing units or heat pumps can reach 98% or more.
We recently conducted a comparative study in Montreal, in a retail business heated by oil. Switching to a Gree Versati IV (R-32) central heat pump allowed the client to reduce their heating costs by 42% in one winter, while also improving indoor air quality with integrated ventilation.
A system older than 15 to 20 years
The average useful lifespan of a commercial heating system depends on its type (furnace, boiler, heat pump, etc.), but rarely exceeds 20 years. Beyond that, the risks of breakdowns, major failures, or non-compliance with energy regulations become significant.
On the North Shore, we were recently commissioned to assess an office building where the furnace dated back to 2003. Though still functioning, it was consuming large amounts of energy and maintenance was becoming difficult due to obsolete parts. We recommended and installed a Lennox EL18XPV central heat pump with iComfort smart control. Comfort was improved, and the system is now remotely connected for better energy management.
The system uses outdated fuel or refrigerant
Many old systems still run on oil, propane, or R-22, fuels or refrigerants that are now expensive, polluting, or banned. Switching to a system using R-32 or R-454B, like the ones we install at AirGreen, helps reduce environmental impact and ensures compliance with the latest regulations.
In Brossard, a medical center was still operating a central heat pump using R-22. With no legal way to recharge the unit, we opted for a complete replacement with a Goodman GSZC18 R-32 5-ton unit. Thanks to our intervention, they now have a system that meets new environmental standards and received $3,500 in financial support.
Why choose AirGreen for your commercial heating upgrade?
Our expertise in commercial heating systems goes far beyond installation. We conduct a comprehensive assessment of your needs, infrastructure, budget constraints, and regulatory requirements. We support our clients in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the South Shore and North Shore every step of the way: energy analysis, selecting the best unit, securing grants, professional installation, and after-sales service.
We offer a unique field experience: over 250 commercial installations per year, solid partnerships with manufacturers such as Fujitsu, Bosch, Gree, Goodman, Lennox, and Trane, and certifications for all subsidy programs available in Québec.
Practical tips before replacing your system
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Get a full energy audit to understand your heat losses.
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Check your available subsidies with a certified professional.
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Don’t rely only on BTUs—also consider seasonal energy efficiency (SEER / HSPF / AFUE).
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Request a custom solution, adapted to your layout and hours of operation.
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Opt for equipment with smart control, for centralized heating and cooling management.
Contact AirGreen for a worry-free heating system replacement
Is your old system showing one of these signs? Then it’s time to consider a strategic replacement. At AirGreen, we know that good commercial heating isn’t just about heat. It’s about comfort, performance, cost control, and environmental compliance.
Reach out to us today to schedule a visit to your building and receive a personalized quote. Our technical advisors are ready to turn a complex decision into a profitable, long-term, and grant-supported investment.