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When it comes to your furnace, the more attention you can give it, the longer it will last. That’s why investing in regular furnace maintenance services is essential. Annual service can help prevent the need for furnace replacement and minimize costly repairs that could cause interruption of service down the road.

However, one of the most important aspects of furnace maintenance is recognizing when yours is having issues. It isn’t always easy to tell when there’s a problem with your furnace, especially if you’re not an expert like the team from Toshack, so we’ve collected some helpful clues for you.

Here are five signs your furnace is in need of repairs or replacement ASAP!

1. Furnace Isn’t Producing Enough Heat

If your furnace isn’t putting out enough heat or doesn’t seem to be putting out any heat at all, it may be an issue with your home’s breaker. box Try resetting your breaker to see if this does the trick and gets your furnace started again. Often, the breaker for the furnace could have been tripped and switching it back on will do the trick. If not, it could be an issue with your furnace or breakers’ wiring and might need to be inspected by a furnace repair professional.

Another common issue to look out for if your furnace isn’t producing enough heat is its filter. Often, a dirty furnace filter will clog its vents and decrease its efficiency, so be sure to inspect this as well.

2. Noisy Furnace or Ductwork

It’s not uncommon for furnaces to make a little bit of noise when they’re starting up or powering down. But if your furnace is bumping and banging all day long, there’s probably a problem. Strange noises can mean everything from a broken part rattling inside your furnace to something caught in the air ducts.

Listen closely to the sound to determine where it’s coming from. It may simply be the result of air rushing through your ductwork, in which case, all you need to do is provide it with better insulation. If it’s your furnace bumping and banging, it could be the result of a blower port that needs to be oiled, an improperly adjusted pilot light, or a damaged belt. These issues are often better left to the touch of a licensed furnace service technician.

3. Heating or Rapid Cycling Problems

Is your furnace turning on and off again too quickly or simply doing so over and over again without ceasing? If so, there’s something wrong. Not only does rapid cycling problems illustrate all is not well with your furnace, but they can also be costly and cause huge spikes in your energy costs, which is why they need to be fixed immediately. 

The primary cause of such an issue is a worn or dirty air filter. So, if you can’t remember the last time you replaced yours, see if doing so gets your furnace back to normal. If not, there may be an issue with the furnace’s motor or belts, both of which will require professional attention. 

4. Furnace Isn’t Blowing Air

Has your furnace given up on blowing air completely? If so, it likely means there’s a problem with its motor or thermostat. You can inspect this issue yourself by making sure that its blower is free of debris. Once you’ve done that, if it still isn’t responding and blowing hot or cold air, take a closer look at your furnace: it should have a light installed somewhere that will either be green or red. If it’s green, it likely means there’s only a minor issue; if it’s red, it probably needs servicing. A red light can often signify that your furnace’s control board, thermostat, transformer, run capacitor, or blower motor is malfunctioning.

5. Flame Sensor Needs Cleaning

Over time, the flame sensor of your furnace can collect dust, debris, and become oxidized, all of which can affect its performance. That’s why cleaning it occasionally is a good idea. The flame sensor is located on the back of the furnace right in the path of the burner and is shaped like a small rod. To clean it, turn off the power to your furnace by switching off its breaker, then remove its sensor if possible. Scrub it gently, removing any built-up debris. Then simply reattach the sensor and power up your furnace again.

In some cases, an unclean sensor can cause a larger issue with your furnace. However, determining when is a little more difficult and will require a reliable professional. They’ll be able to perform a micro amp draw reading to find out whether the flame sensor is the cause of the issue or there’s another internal problem at play. 

Let Toshack be your furnace replacement professionals in Kingston & Brockville!

If you’re in need of furnace replacement or repair services, the team from Toshack is always available to help you find an affordable solution. Since as early as the 1930s, Toshack has been a recognized leader in the heating and cooling industry. We’re committed to offering a quick turnaround time and exceptional customer service to all those living in the Brockville, Kingston Cornwall, and Smith Falls areas.

In addition to our range of furnace replacement and maintenance services, Toshack also offers heating and cooling solutions like boiler pump repairs, air conditioning repair and installation, heat pump cooling solutions, and more. We also carry all of today’s leading heating and cooling equipment and offer air quality, tankless water heaters, and duct cleaning products and services to those in need. 

To learn more about how Toshack can help you with all your heating and cooling needs, contact us online today or call 1 (888) 547-6162 to schedule a service visit or receive a FREE quote! 

Choosing to service your furnace before winter offers many advantages and is a great way to ensure that everything is working correctly. Reaching out to heating and cooling experts in Kingston and Brockville is an excellent choice to make sure that you and your family stay warm during the winter. 

Here are the top five reasons why you should use a heating and cooling company in Kingston and Brockville to help you avoid emergency furnace repair during the winter months.

1. Reduces the Chances of Potential Problems

Scheduling routine maintenance services for your furnace is one of the best ways to prevent any potential problems. These proactive services will ensure that everything is working correctly and prepare it for the winter season.

2. Maintains Energy Efficiency

Maintaining energy efficiency is a top priority for many homeowners. Servicing your furnace will ensure that your system is operating efficiently without any problems. Ultimately, this will save you money on heating while also extending the lifespan of your furnace.

3. Ensures Your System is Ready & Prepared

Another benefit of scheduling these services is that it will ensure your heating system is well-prepared and ready to perform. Experienced technicians will check all the various components to make certain your furnace is ready to handle the cold winter temperatures.

4. Keeps Your Family & Home Safe

Servicing your furnace on a regular basis is key to keeping your family and home safe. These licensed professionals will make sure that your system is heating properly while also checking for any cracks or leaks that can create various safety issues.

5. Maintains Warranty

Many manufacturers require a furnace to be serviced on a yearly basis to fulfill your warranty. These maintenance services are a great way to keep everything working well while also saving you money in repair costs in the future.

Schedule your service visit with us today! 

Toshack specializes in tune-ups and emergency furnace repairs for a variety of clients in Kingston and Brockville. Our experienced technicians can help ensure that everything is running efficiently and prepare your furnace for the changing seasons. Customer service is always a number one priority at Toshack.

Contact us today to schedule a service visit and see why we are one of the leading companies that offer emergency furnace repair services.

Knowing whether to repair or replace your furnace can be a challenge. There are a few things you can consider in the decision-making process that will help you decide which option makes the most sense. In some cases, minor repairs are a better option. Emergency furnace repair in Brockville can sometimes be costly and happen at the worst times. Making small repairs may buy you some time so that you can find the right furnace for your needs and decide to purchase it.

Four Furnace Factors You Need to Consider 

• The Age of Your Furnace

The age of your furnace is a determining factor. If your furnace is over 10 or 15 years old, vital parts may be wearing out. When one starts to go, others may follow in short order leading to sizable repair bills. Depending on its age, it may be a good time to consider replacing the furnace in your Brockville or Kingston home.

• Overall Condition

If a furnace has been serviced properly and well-maintained, it may last for several years longer than what is considered to be normal. Depending on its use and how well you have taken care of it, you may be able to opt for repairs instead of a replacement.

• Is It Energy-Efficient?

Older furnaces may not be rated for energy efficiency. While some may be somewhat efficient, it’s hard to tell just how much energy your furnace uses unless you have an audit performed. If your furnace is older than 10 or 15 years, you may want to consider purchasing a more energy-efficient model. All new appliances, including furnaces and HVAC units, are required to carry an energy efficiency rating issued by the EPA. This tells you how much energy your furnace will use and an estimate of the yearly savings you could receive.

• Do You Qualify for Rebates?

Manufacturers often offer rebates on certain models if you purchase it and have it installed outside of their “busy” season. It’s also a good idea to check if there are any government rebates you may qualify for. When upgrading to a unit that is more energy-efficient, you may qualify for tax rebates and purchase incentives.

We Provide Emergency Furnace Services and Repairs in Brockville and Kingston

When your furnace starts giving you problems, you need to talk to our reputable staff at Toshack. Residents who live in the Brockville and Kingston areas can contact our office and schedule an evaluation of their system. This way, you can get the information you need to decide whether to repair or replace your furnace. Get your free quote with us today!

If you are like most people, convenience is key and having hot water on-demand is a necessity, not an option. People have found that older style water heaters may be convenient, but they also can be costly in terms of wasted energy and repairs. Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly more popular in Kingston and Brockville and offer several benefits that many are finding attractive.

How Your Brockville Home Can Benefit from A Hot Water On-Demand System

How Hot Water on Demand Works

Hot water on demand is essential if you have kids and adults who require fresh laundry, hot showers, and meals on clean plates. Tankless water heaters offer immediate access to the hot water you need without having to wait on the water to warm up as it comes through the faucet. This makes it easier to finish what you’re doing without wasting a lot of valuable time.

Energy Efficiency

Conventional water heaters keep water hot by running heating units three or more times a day. This happens even though you aren’t running any water or depleting water from the tank. In other words, you are simply reheating the same water over and over again. With a tankless water heater, the water is heated as you use it. This reduces the amount of energy that is used throughout the day and will actually lower your Brockville utility bills.

Take Two!

Because of the way a tankless water heater works, it may not be able to keep up with back to back hot showers or loads laundry. If you have a large family, or simply one that uses a lot of hot water, it may be a good idea to install two tankless water heaters. This is especially beneficial if you have two full baths. A tankless water heater for each one will ensure that everyone has hot water on demand whenever they need it.

Get Hot Water On-Demand for Brockville and Kingston Homes 

At Toshack, our professional staff can answer any question you may have about tankless water heaters and the advantages they offer over the more conventional options. If you live in the Kingston or Brockville areas, contact us today and find out what options you have if you are needing hot water on demand. Get a free quote now!

During the winter months in Kingston and Brockville, you don’t want to worry about whether or not your furnace is going to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. If you don’t take care of your system, there is a good chance it could fail, leaving you very cold and extremely uncomfortable. You can prevent this from happening by choosing a heating service and company in Kingston and Brockville to properly maintain your furnace and its components.

Here are a few tips to help keep your heating and system running all winter long.

3 Furnace and Heating Tips for the Fall and Winter in Kingston and Brockville 

• Change Your Filters Every Month

Filters that are allowed to get clogged with dust and airborne debris can cause your furnace to work harder than it needs to. Change your filters at least once a month to ensure your system will continue to work as effectively as possible. This also works to improve the air quality in your home. Your local heating service repair company can show you how to change your filters on your own, or they can come and change them for you.

• Clean Your System

Cleaning the many different components of your system is also extremely important. This includes sweeping out your vents and having your ductwork professionally cleaned. Make sure intake and exhaust areas are free of debris so that air can flow easily in and around the system. A few minutes every month will keep your system clean and running like it’s supposed to.

• Regular Maintenance Is Essential

Regular maintenance is essential if you want your system to work efficiently. Having your furnace inspected once a year can prevent failures by catching small problems before they become major concerns. During a maintenance check, worn parts can be replaced and your system will be thoroughly checked for problems that you may not realize are there.

Get Heat & Furnace Services in Kingston and Brockville from Toshack 

Kingston and Brockville residents that need to have their furnaces inspected or know that their unit requires maintenance can contact our team at Toshack for a free quote. With our years of experience and reliable service, you can count on our technicians every time you call. Whether it’s for repairs or an annual maintenance check, we will make sure your heating and cooling system is working efficiently all year long.

As much as we try to stay on top of our furnace maintenance, there is always a possibility of an unexpected furnace failure. It is important to know the signs when an emergency furnace repair is needed so that you can tackle the problem before it gets worse. 

We’ve listed a few indicators that your furnace could be on the fritz and maybe in potential need of a repair.

How to Tell if You Need Emergency Furnace Repair Service

1. An aging furnace

Every homeowner should be aware of how old their heating and cooling equipment is. The lifespan of the average furnace does not extend past 20 years. If your furnace is lasting you longer than this, it is important to stay on top of maintenance even if there are no signs of damage as your furnace will need repairs much more frequently than the average heating unit.

2. Your furnace is making unusual sounds

If you start to hear unusual rattling, scraping or thumping noises coming from your furnace, they should not be ignored. Different noises will correspond to different parts of your furnace that need emergency repairs. If left without repair, these damages could lead to more serious consequences, and eventually, call for a full furnace replacement.

3. Your furnace is costing you more than usual

When a furnace needs repair, it may still be performing the way that you are used to, but at a higher cost. To reach the same level of heat with damaged parts, your furnace needs to work harder and consume more energy, leading to a higher heating bill at the end of the month.

4. A yellow flame

The flame that lights your furnace should always appear to be blue. If this flame ever appears to have a yellow hue, it is a sign that there is some sort of a leak, and carbon monoxide is being emitted. This harmful gas is difficult to detect but can be very dangerous. It is important to turn your furnace off when this happens and have a professional deal with the problem as soon as possible.

Toshack Will Keep Your Furnace Running Smoothly

If you notice any of these signs that your furnace requires an emergency repair, or if it is due for a regular check-up, contact Toshack today for a free quote.

Choosing the device that will give you and your family hot water on demand is not the most glamorous task, but it has to be done. There are many things to consider when buying a water heater, the most common debate being deciding between a tank or tankless system.

There is no one right answer for every home, and it is important to find the right water heating solution for your needs. The water heating experts at Toshack have outlined a few key points to consider when choosing a water heater for your home.

1. Getting hot water on demand

We all have different priorities, and it is important to know how water heating systems work so that you can choose accordingly. A tankless system will heat your water for you on request, meaning you will need to run the water before the system can heat it up. A tank, in contrast, will hold gallons of hot water so that you are able to call upon it whenever you would like and will have hot water on demand.

2. A tank takes up a lot of space, without looking very attractive

Depending on where you plan on installing your water heater, and how much space you have to work with, a water tank may not be the best look for your home. If you own a small home and need to capitalize on the space that you have, then adding a large tank to the mix may not be the best option for you.

3. They use power in different ways

A tankless system will only heat water for you when necessary, whereas a tank is constantly using energy to maintain a high-water temperature. However, where a tank can operate using only one form of power, a tankless system often uses both gas and electricity.

4. Water tanks have higher risks

If a problem occurs within a water tank, it could lead to serious flooding in the home, as it can hold up to 40 gallons of water. This is not an issue for the much smaller, tankless systems.

5. Tankless systems tend to be more expensive

Depending on the way you use your hot water, a tankless water system may save you money over time, however, the unit itself tends to be much higher in price than a water tank.

The Team at Toshack Is Here

For more information on water heating systems and hot water on demand, call our team today at 1-888-547-6162 for a free quote!