Minor oversights that can become expensive: what every homeowner should know about their heating system
In the world of residential heating in Quebec, a simple oversight or a poor decision can lead not only to discomfort at home, but also to high energy costs, expensive breakdowns, and a significant reduction in the lifespan of the equipment. At AirGreen, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and the South Shore with their heating projects. Thanks to our on-the-ground expertise, we’ve identified six common mistakes that 90% of homeowners make—often without even realizing it.
These mistakes can be avoided with the right guidance, professional support, and a clear understanding of how a HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system works. Let’s dive into these common pitfalls to help you avoid them.
1. Skipping the annual maintenance of your heating system
One of the most widespread—and yet most avoidable—mistakes is neglecting regular HVAC maintenance. Whether it’s a central heat pump, an electric furnace, or a dual-energy system, annual maintenance is essential to:
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Maintain optimal energy efficiency
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Prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, or mold
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Detect early signs of premature wear or faulty components
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Extend the lifespan of the equipment
Real example: In Longueuil, a customer with a 15-year-old Goodman furnace experienced a complete shutdown in January. No maintenance had been done in five years. A simple annual maintenance visit would have prevented a 48-hour outage in the middle of winter.
2. Choosing an incorrectly sized unit
Another common trap is choosing a heating system that’s either too powerful or too weak for the actual needs of the home. An oversized unit heats quickly but cycles on and off frequently, which:
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Consumes more energy
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Wears down components prematurely
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Creates discomfort (temperature fluctuations)
On the other hand, an undersized unit will never manage to heat the space adequately—especially during Quebec’s bitterly cold winters.
At AirGreen, we always perform a custom thermal evaluation before any installation, taking into account:
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The livable square footage
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The insulation quality of the home
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The orientation to sunlight
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The household’s usage habits
3. Installing it yourself or hiring an uncertified contractor
With the rise of online tutorials, some homeowners attempt to install their own heat pump or furnace, or hire an unlicensed contractor to save a few dollars. The result?
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A non-compliant installation
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Void manufacturer warranties
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Ineligibility for government grants
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Increased safety risks (overheating, faulty electrical wiring)
Example from Laval: a customer installed a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 wall-mounted heat pump by himself. Not only was it poorly secured, but it was leaking refrigerant. We had to completely uninstall and reinstall it properly. The total cost? Three times higher than if we had been contacted from the start.
4. Ignoring available grants
Many homeowners are not aware of the grants available through programs like Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert, Rénoclimat, or Chauffez vert. As a result, they pay full price for a system they could have gotten with up to $5,000 in financial assistance.
At AirGreen, we always include a review of available grants based on:
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The type of equipment selected (e.g.: central heat pump Fujitsu KZAH R-32, Bosch BIVA R-454B, etc.)
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The energy efficiency of the property
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The geographic location (Montréal, Laval, North Shore or South Shore)
We even fill out some of the paperwork for the client to maximize their chances of approval.
5. Delaying the replacement of an outdated system
Many homeowners keep their old system running until it completely breaks down, thinking they’re saving money in the short term. What they don’t realize is that an old system:
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Often consumes 30 to 50% more electricity
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Requires frequent repairs
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May no longer meet environmental standards (R-22, etc.)
Example from Montréal: a homeowner in Plateau-Mont-Royal was still using a heat pump with R-22 refrigerant. After several costly service calls, she finally had our team install a Gree Extreme 18,000 BTU heat pump. The result? A 37% drop in her monthly bill starting from the first winter.
6. Underestimating the importance of installation quality
Even the best unit loses its effectiveness if poorly installed. A quality HVAC installation is much more than just connecting pipes:
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Strategic positioning of the outdoor unit
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Optimizing airflow and ductwork
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Precise thermostat calibration
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Verifying the system’s airtightness
AirGreen stands out by offering installations performed by certified technicians, highly experienced and continuously trained on the latest industry standards.
How to avoid these mistakes: our approach at AirGreen
At AirGreen, we’ve built our reputation on comprehensive, transparent, and professional service. Every project begins with a personalized evaluation, followed by:
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Tailored technical advice for your home
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Strategic selection of brand and model
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Detailed, transparent quote
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Installation meeting the highest quality standards
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After-sales support, maintenance, and quick service
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best possible heating system, for a comfortable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting home.
What’s next: your comfort starts here
Do you suspect that your current system isn’t performing as it should? Have you experienced a breakdown or a spike in your electricity bill? Not sure if you’re eligible for a grant?
Call us today. Our experts travel quickly to Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore for a free, no-obligation evaluation.
Trust AirGreen to help you avoid costly mistakes and enjoy a heating system that’s efficient, reliable, and built to last.