Get your heating system ready to face the harsh Québec winter with ease
When temperatures drop dramatically and winter settles over Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, an unprepared heating system can quickly become a source of stress, discomfort, or even unexpected expenses. At AirGreen, we understand how important it is to thoroughly prepare your heating system well before the first snowfall. That’s why we’ve created this practical 10-step guide, based on our real-life expertise from hundreds of heating and HVAC installations and service calls across Greater Montréal.
This guide is for homeowners, building managers, or anyone who wants to optimize the performance of their heating system, avoid costly breakdowns, and improve energy efficiency in their home or commercial property.
1. Schedule a professional preventive inspection
The first and arguably most important step is to book a full inspection of your heating system with a certified HVAC technician. At AirGreen, we carry out thorough checks on all components: filters, coils, fans, thermostats, electrical connections, and heat exchangers. This inspection allows us to detect signs of wear or failure before they become problems.
Benefit: avoid breakdowns in the middle of January and ensure smooth operation from the first cold days.
2. Clean or replace air filters
Clogged filters reduce airflow, overload the system’s motor, and increase energy consumption. They can also lower your indoor air quality. Replacing or cleaning the filters (depending on the model) at the beginning of each heating season is a must.
Recommended frequency: every 1 to 3 months depending on usage and whether you have pets.
3. Check and calibrate the thermostat
A poorly calibrated thermostat can lead to over- or under-heating. We recommend testing your thermostat before winter, replacing the batteries (if needed), and making sure it’s programmed to deliver comfort while limiting energy waste.
AirGreen Tip: Choose a smart thermostat, programmable remotely, to better control your energy use.
4. Check ducts and air vents
Blocked or poorly insulated ducts can lead to up to 30% energy loss. Checking their condition, insulation, and airtightness is key—especially in older homes. At AirGreen, we also offer duct cleaning to ensure optimal airflow.
5. Bleed hot water radiators
If you use a hot water system like oil or gas boilers, you’ll need to bleed your radiators to eliminate air bubbles, which can interfere with heat distribution. This is a simple task, but we can also handle it during a seasonal HVAC maintenance visit.
6. Make sure your system is well ventilated
A high-performing heating system also depends on proper ventilation. Ensure air intakes and exhausts aren’t blocked (by snow, leaves, or dirt), especially for wall-mounted or central heat pumps, air exchangers, and hybrid systems.
7. Inspect outdoor heat pump units
If you have a wall-mounted or central heat pump, the outdoor unit needs a thorough inspection. Leaves, branches, debris, or ice can seriously impair its performance. A pre-snow inspection guarantees optimal performance all winter long.
AirGreen Example: In Laval, we recently reinstalled a Bosch IDS Premium R-454B central heat pump for a client whose outdoor unit was damaged by ice. Result: a 22% drop in their winter energy consumption.
8. Test safety devices
Ensuring your safety devices are working (carbon monoxide detectors, overload switches, pressure valves) is vital—especially with combustion-based systems. Test them every fall to protect everyone in your building.
Important: We recommend installing a CO detector near any combustion source.
9. Program your heating schedule
A programmable system allows you to optimize energy use based on your routine: lower temperatures at night or when you’re away for long periods. Our technicians can help you set these preferences during a maintenance visit.
10. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance with AirGreen
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system is the best way to ensure longevity, efficiency, and uninterrupted comfort. Our certified technicians serve all of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and the South Shore, with a professional approach that respects your space.
Why choose AirGreen for your heating maintenance?
At AirGreen, we’ve built our reputation on the quality of our HVAC installations, our transparency, and our ability to deliver tailored solutions—even in complex situations.
Our commitments:
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Fast, on-time service
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Experienced, qualified technicians
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Honest, precise advice
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Compliance with safety and energy standards
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Environmentally conscious work and knowledge of current grants
Real-world examples of our expertise
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In Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, we carried out a complete conversion from an old oil system to a Gree Flexx central heat pump with electric backup. This transition earned the client over $5,000 in LogisVert subsidies.
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In Montréal’s Ahuntsic district, we solved a client’s uneven heating issue by replacing an outdated gas furnace with a more efficient and eco-friendly Fujitsu KZAH R-32 central heat pump.
Conclusion: A warm winter starts with smart preparation
Preparing your heating system is more than just a technical check-up: it’s an investment in your comfort, safety, and energy savings. By following these 10 simple steps and relying on AirGreen’s expertise, you’ll enjoy a worry-free winter in a warm, energy-efficient home.
Don’t wait for the deep freeze to act. Contact AirGreen today to book your HVAC maintenance or a custom preventive inspection. Our teams are ready to help across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.