A bill that skyrockets as soon as the temperature drops—this is a familiar scenario for residents of Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore. But why does the cost of heating spike so drastically in winter, even for well-insulated homes? At AirGreen, we answer this question every day. Thanks to our expertise in HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), we've identified the real culprits behind this sometimes startling increase, along with the best concrete solutions to implement.
The Underestimated Impact of Extreme Cold on Heating Systems
Every winter, Quebec’s harsh climate puts heating systems to the test, especially during cold snaps where the mercury drops well below -20 °C. These extreme temperatures force heat pumps, boilers, and electric furnaces to run at full capacity for extended periods.
This prolonged operation has two major consequences:
-
Increased energy consumption: the system runs longer and harder.
-
Reduced efficiency: some equipment loses up to 30% of its performance at very low temperatures, especially if it's poorly maintained or outdated.
HVAC Equipment That’s Outdated or Not Suited to the Climate
At AirGreen, we've found that many homes are still using heating appliances that aren't suited to Montreal’s weather conditions. Here are some scenarios we commonly encounter:
-
Old-generation electric furnaces that are extremely energy-hungry.
-
Wall-mounted heat pumps not designed for harsh winters, which lose effectiveness below -10 °C.
-
Undersized systems that can't properly heat an entire home.
These setups lead to overworked equipment, forcing them to run constantly — a key factor behind the explosion in heating costs.
Insulation That Can’t Keep the Cold Out
Even a high-performance heating system can’t make up for a poorly insulated home. Insufficient insulation in areas like:
-
Attics and crawl spaces
-
Windows and doors
-
Basements and foundations
…results in significant heat loss. The outcome: your heating system runs nonstop to maintain a comfortable temperature, which quickly drives up your energy bill.
At AirGreen, during our inspection visits, we use thermographic tools to identify areas of heat loss in homes. These diagnostics help our clients prioritize insulation improvements before even considering replacing their HVAC system.
Inefficient Use of Thermostats
Thermostat settings are often overlooked. Habits such as:
-
Keeping the temperature high (22 °C or more) at all times,
-
Heating unoccupied rooms,
-
Using non-programmable thermostats,
…lead to significant energy overconsumption.
Our experts recommend installing smart thermostats compatible with modern HVAC systems. These thermostats adjust the temperature based on your lifestyle schedule, lowering your bills without sacrificing comfort.
Neglected HVAC System Maintenance
Another major factor we encounter in the field: the lack of maintenance on heat pumps, furnaces, and wall-mounted air conditioners. Clogged filters, dirty coils, or faulty fans can lead to:
-
Excessive energy use,
-
Poor heat transfer,
-
Premature equipment wear and tear.
That’s why AirGreen offers professional HVAC maintenance services throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore, tailored to each season and equipment type.
Choosing the Wrong Heating System
One of the most common issues we see: the system installed simply doesn't match the building’s needs.
Here are a few real examples from our experience:
-
In Laval, a customer was trying to heat a 2,400 sq. ft. home with a 12,000 BTU wall-mounted heat pump, leading to constant overload. We recommended and installed a high-performance central Fujitsu R-32 heat pump with a zoning system, cutting their winter bill by 38%.
-
In Longueuil, a home with an old oil heating system struggled to maintain consistent warmth. We carried out a complete conversion to a Bosch BOVA IDS Premium R-454B system, eligible for LogisVert grants. Result: more than $900 saved on the annual bill.
Overlooked Grants That Actually Make a Big Difference
Many homeowners aren’t aware that they can benefit from government grants to upgrade or replace their heating systems. For example:
-
The Hydro-Québec LogisVert program, offering up to $5,000 depending on the heat pump installed.
-
Tax credits for energy-efficient renovations.
At AirGreen, we support our clients through the entire grant application process, from checking eligibility to submitting documents, helping to significantly reduce the upfront investment.
What Can You Do to Avoid a Shocking Bill Next Winter?
Here are AirGreen’s practical recommendations to reduce your heating costs in a lasting way:
-
Have your HVAC system inspected before every winter.
-
Choose a high-performance heat pump suited to our climate (like the Gree Extreme, Fujitsu KZAH, or Bosch BOVA models).
-
Insulate key areas of your home, especially the attic.
-
Install a programmable or smart thermostat.
-
Get your systems regularly serviced by certified professionals.
The AirGreen Approach: Local Expertise, Real Results
Every AirGreen intervention is personalized. Whether it’s for a new installation, a system replacement, or complete maintenance, we analyze the specific needs of the building, the energy behavior of the occupants, and the local climate environment.
Our goal: to provide optimal comfort while keeping your energy use under control, winter after winter.