One undeniable truth for all homeowners in Québec is that heating is far more than just a comfort—it's a necessity. And yet, many myths circulate around winter heating, leading to costly decisions, wasted energy, and poor use of HVAC systems. At AirGreen, we want to set the record straight and help you better understand how to heat your home efficiently in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore.
Myth 1: Cranking Up the Thermostat Heats the House Faster
Truth:
This is a persistent myth. Many people believe that by turning the thermostat up to 25°C or more, the house will warm up faster. In reality, heating systems—like heat pumps, electric furnaces, or boilers—operate at a constant speed. They don’t heat any faster when you set a higher temperature.
What actually happens is that your HVAC system just runs longer, uses more electricity, and often creates an uncomfortably warm indoor environment. This leads to unnecessary energy consumption, which increases your heating bills.
AirGreen Recommendation:
Set your desired temperature and let the thermostat do its job. For optimal comfort, a temperature between 20°C and 21°C is ideal in living spaces.
Myth 2: Heat Pumps Don’t Work Well in Extreme Cold
Truth:
That used to be true... about 15 years ago. Today, new-generation heat pumps like the Fujitsu KZAH R-32, Gree Extreme, or Bosch BIVA R-454b are built to handle Québec’s harsh winters.
At AirGreen, we’ve installed ultra-efficient heat pumps in colder areas like Saint-Jérôme, Blainville, and Saint-Hubert, and they maintain their efficiency down to -30°C.
Real Example:
A client in Terrebonne was using an old oil furnace. We installed a Gree Sapphire 18,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump, eligible for the LogisVert program, and their heating costs dropped by nearly 40%, all while ensuring consistent comfort, even in the middle of January.
Myth 3: Leaving the Heat On All Day Is More Economical
Truth:
It’s a common belief, but it’s incorrect. Some think it’s more efficient to keep the house warm all day, even when no one’s home. But heating an empty house for 8 to 10 hours wastes energy.
The simple solution: use a programmable or smart thermostat. This lets you lower the temperature when you’re away and bring it back up just before you return—without losing any comfort.
AirGreen Tip:
Our technicians can set up your smart thermostat, compatible with Google Nest or Ecobee, and teach you how to program it based on your schedule. It’s a small investment that can yield 10 to 15% in annual energy savings.
Myth 4: Bigger Means More Efficient
Truth:
A lot of people think that a larger heating system (more BTUs) guarantees better performance. The truth is, an oversized unit heats the space too quickly without allowing proper dehumidification, which can create a damp, uncomfortable atmosphere. It’ll turn on and off frequently (short cycling), which wears out the compressor prematurely.
At AirGreen, we always perform a detailed heat load calculation based on square footage, insulation, sun exposure, and the layout of your home. This helps us recommend the perfectly sized unit for your actual needs.
Installation Example:
In Brossard, we installed a Bosch IDS Premium R-454b central heat pump, 3 tons, in a 2,200 sq. ft. home. After recalculating the actual heating needs, we avoided an unnecessary 4-ton system, saving the client over $1,500.
Myth 5: Electric Heating Is Always Too Expensive
Truth:
This myth comes from a time when electric furnaces were inefficient. Today, modern heating systems—especially high-efficiency heat pumps—are much more economical and qualify for government grants like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert.
With Energy Star-certified models, good insulation, and smart programming, electric heating is not only affordable but also eco-friendly and quiet.
Client Testimonial:
A family in Longueuil replaced an old oil system with a Fujitsu KZAH 36,000 BTU central heat pump. The result: their annual heating bill dropped from $2,200 to about $1,250, with consistent comfort in every room.
What You Need to Remember
Québec winters are harsh, but with the right information and the right HVAC equipment, staying warm doesn’t have to break the bank. As experts in HVAC installation, heat pump maintenance, and heating service in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore, we bring our expertise to ensure your comfort and savings.
At AirGreen, we don’t just sell equipment: we provide long-lasting, intelligent solutions tailored to your needs.
Why Choose AirGreen for Your Heating Projects?
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Free personalized heat load assessment
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Certified and experienced installers
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Access to a wide range of trusted brands: Gree, Fujitsu, Bosch, Sharp, Goodman, and more
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Full support with LogisVert grant applications
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Fast service in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore
Need personalized advice?
Contact us today to speak with a residential heating expert and get a free in-home estimate.