Freezing Winter Ahead? 8 Tips to Keep Your Heating System in Montréal Running Strong

Get your heating system ready for extreme temperatures with expert advice

In Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and South Shore, harsh winters are simply a fact of life. When the mercury plunges far below freezing, your heating system becomes more than just a piece of equipment—it becomes your shield against the cold. At AirGreen, we understand how crucial it is to have a reliable and high-performance HVAC heating system, especially in the Greater Montréal region where the weather can change suddenly and dramatically.

In this article, we’re sharing 8 practical, professional tips to ensure your heating system runs smoothly all winter long. These recommendations are based on our real-world experience across hundreds of service calls throughout the Montréal area. Whether you’re a homeowner in Laval, a building manager in Longueuil, or a condo owner on the North Shore, you’ll find relevant, actionable, and effective guidance right here.

1. Get your heating system inspected before the deep freeze

Every year, many of the emergency calls we receive during cold snaps could’ve been prevented with a pre-winter inspection. The ideal time for a service check is before the end of fall. During this inspection, our technicians will assess:

• Proper functioning of all mechanical components

• The condition of your air filter

• Overall energy efficiency

• Any signs of wear or potential breakdowns

A professional inspection not only helps avoid breakdowns during snowstorms but also improves the system’s energy consumption.

2. Clean or replace your air filters regularly

A clogged air filter restricts airflow and puts unnecessary strain on your system, reducing performance. This can even lead to early failure, especially during periods of heavy use in winter. We recommend:

• Checking filters every month

• Replacing them every 1 to 3 months, depending on your system and indoor air quality

This advice applies to both central heat pumps and gas or electric furnaces.

3. Check all air vents and ductwork

It’s common for warm air ducts to be partially blocked by furniture or everyday items. Poor airflow makes it hard to evenly heat your space. Make sure:

• No air vents are blocked

• Ducts aren’t damaged or disconnected

• Warm air can circulate freely throughout your home

At AirGreen, we also offer professional HVAC duct cleaning across the Greater Montréal area.

4. Insulate your home to improve thermal efficiency

Even the best heating system will struggle if your home is poorly insulated. To help retain warmth:

• Check insulation in the attic and basement

• Seal around windows and doors

• Close curtains at night to keep heat in

Better insulation reduces the burden on your heating unit, extends its life, and helps lower energy bills.

5. Use your thermostat smartly

Installing a programmable or smart thermostat can significantly optimize how your system runs:

• Lower the temperature slightly at night or when you’re away

• Avoid abrupt temperature changes

• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature around 20–21 °C during the day

We especially recommend smart thermostats that are compatible with the Goodman, Bosch, or Fujitsu systems we frequently install in Montréal and Laval.

6. Prevent frost buildup on outdoor units

Wall-mounted or central heat pumps have outdoor units that can accumulate frost, especially during ice storms or heavy snowfalls. Here’s how to keep them working:

• Regularly clear snow around the unit

• Avoid spraying water during snow removal

• Make sure fans can rotate freely

When we install Gree or Fujitsu heat pumps, we always position the outdoor unit strategically to minimize this issue.

7. Watch for strange noises or performance drops

A metallic sound, strange odor, or weaker heat output are often early signs of trouble. Don’t wait:

• Call our team quickly for an inspection

• Avoid using the system if it seems off—it could cause further damage

We offer fast service, even during peak winter months, across Montréal, Longueuil, Laval, the North Shore, and the South Shore.

8. Always rely on qualified professionals for maintenance and repairs

At AirGreen, our expertise comes from years of real-world experience, installing and maintaining HVAC heating systems tailored to Québec’s demanding climate. Our technicians are certified, up to date on the latest standards, and most importantly, local to you.

We frequently install top-performing equipment such as:

• The Bosch BOVA or IDS Premium R-454B central heat pump

• The Fujitsu KZAH R-32 wall-mounted heat pump

• Goodman R-32 heating systems for central air setups

Every installation is custom-tailored based on your home’s layout, your heating needs, and available grants (up to $5,000 in some cases through LogisVert or Chauffez Vert).

Real example: Service call in Saint-Hubert, South Shore

Last December, a customer contacted us because their 36,000 BTU Goodman central heat pump wasn’t performing well during extreme cold. After inspection, we found that a faulty thermostat and an improperly calibrated outdoor compensation curve were to blame. Our solution:

• Replaced the thermostat with a compatible smart model

• Optimized the programming based on occupancy hours

• Reduced electrical consumption by 18% in January and February

Thanks to our intervention, the family stayed warm all winter without any further issues.

Why choose AirGreen for your HVAC heating in Montréal and surrounding areas?

We specialize in installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC heating systems, whether in single-family homes, multiplexes, or rental buildings. Our approach is based on:

• Comprehensive and transparent diagnostics

• Custom technical solutions

• Deep knowledge of local and provincial grant programs

• Widespread coverage: Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore, North Shore

By following these 8 simple tips, you’ll extend your system’s lifespan, improve comfort, lower your energy bills, and avoid breakdowns during critical periods.

Conclusion

A freezing winter doesn’t allow for mistakes. Your HVAC heating system is your best ally to get through this demanding season. At AirGreen, we’re here to support you, with professional, fast, and climate-adapted services. Don’t wait for your system to give out at the worst moment—act now.