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At Toshack, we understand the importance of a dependable furnace, especially during the chilly months in Kingston, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, and surrounding areas. While furnaces are built to last, problems can still arise. Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved with either professional assistance or simple troubleshooting by homeowners. In this blog, we’ll delve into some of the most common furnace issues and how to tackle them to keep your home cozy and warm.

Clogged Air Filter

One of the most prevalent furnace problems is a dirty air filter, and fortunately, it’s also one of the simplest to fix. A blocked air filter makes it difficult for your furnace to draw in air, causing it to work harder than necessary. Eventually, your furnace might shut off to prevent damage, which can be concerning. Before you worry, try changing the air filter. Just turn off the furnace, remove the old filter, and insert a fresh one.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat communicates with your furnace, instructing it when to start and how warm to make your home. If the thermostat malfunctions, it can significantly affect your furnace’s performance. Symptoms like uneven heating, frequent cycling, or an inability to turn the furnace on or off may occur. Your home might feel unusually cold or excessively warm. Sometimes, the solution is as simple as replacing dead batteries. Swap out the old batteries for new ones to see if that resolves the issue.

Pilot Light Problems

The pilot light, or ignitor, is essential for your furnace’s operation. It ignites the natural gas when the furnace starts, generating heat and power. Without it, the furnace can’t produce warmth. If you notice your furnace attempting to start repeatedly without completing a full heating cycle, the pilot light could be the culprit. Contact Toshack if you encounter this issue.

Normal Wear and Tear

As time goes on, your furnace will experience wear and tear. Components may become worn, bent, sluggish, or misaligned. A single faulty component can cause the entire unit to malfunction. Identifying the exact problem without professional training is challenging. Many furnace repairs can be completed in a single visit from a technician.

Lack of Regular Maintenance

Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to your furnace breaking down and aging prematurely. We recommend performing DIY maintenance, such as changing the air filter and replacing thermostat batteries, every three months. Additionally, professional maintenance should be conducted annually. During a professional tune-up, a technician will clean, lubricate, and calibrate the entire heating system.

Facing Furnace Challenges? Toshack Has You Covered!

At Toshack, we’re not just about heating and cooling; we also offer a wide array of furnace services to keep your home cozy and warm. With over 90 years of industry experience, delivering reliable furnace solutions is always our priority. Whether you’re in Kingston, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, or nearby areas, our expert team is ready to tackle any furnace issue you may face.

Why Choose Toshack for Your Furnace Needs?

Since the 1930s, Toshack has been a trusted name in furnace services throughout Kingston, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, and beyond. Whether it’s emergency repairs, routine maintenance, or new installations, our team of seasoned technicians is here to assist you every step of the way. We understand the unique requirements of local homeowners and are dedicated to delivering exceptional service and dependable solutions.

Ready to Ensure Your Furnace is in Prime Condition? Contact Toshack for a Quote Today!

Don’t let a malfunctioning furnace leave you out in the cold. Reach out to Toshack today for all your furnace maintenance needs, and let our expertise keep your home warm and comfortable all season long!

Contact Toshack Today:

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Plumbing problems can be quite a hassle for any homeowner. Fortunately, many of these issues can be avoided with some simple preventative measures. And when you do face a bigger problem, having a reliable local company like Toshack for their plumbing services can make all the difference. To help you keep your plumbing system running smoothly and avoid unnecessary stress, we’ve put together a few handy tips on how to prevent some common plumbing issues.

How to Avoid Tub & Shower Issues

Keeping the tub and shower in great condition is easier than you might think. Apply these tips, and you might save yourself a call to local plumbing services.

Install a Strainer Install a strainer to prevent hair and other debris from causing clogs in the drain. Regular cleaning of the hair catcher will keep the water flowing smoothly.

Clean Shower Heads Shower heads can eventually become clogged because of mineral deposits. One way to avoid this issue is to flush the head with water and use vinegar to soak it overnight to loosen mineral buildup.

Check Tub Drain Stoppers Make sure that the tub drain stoppers are properly sealed. You can fill your tub with some water, mark the level of the water, and return at a later time to see if the water level is the same.

How to Avoid Bathroom Sink Problems

The sink in a bathroom often sees a lot of use, and it can eventually experience problems. Fortunately, you can keep these issues to a minimum by following a few tips.

Regular Cleaning It’s vital to clean the sink regularly to prevent the buildup of any grime that can cause blockages. A clean sink is not only pleasing to the eye but can also prevent undesirable odors.

Check for Leaks Leaks can eventually happen over time. It’s a good idea to check your faucet and drainpipe for any potential leaks. Reaching out to local plumbing companies is important if you find any leaks or other issues.

How to Avoid Toilet Issues

Toilet troubles can lead to a lot of headaches, but following these strategies can help you sidestep potential issues.

Proper Disposal of Waste Only toilet paper and human waste need to be flushed. Avoid disposing of other items, such as wipes, even if they are labeled as flushable. Following this rule will reduce the chances of experiencing a toilet clog.

Check for Any Leaks You will need to check around the base and the water tank for any signs of leaks now and then. Early detection of leaks can save you from costly repairs in the future.

Need Plumbing Services? Reach Out to Our Team

 In addition to our heating and cooling services, Toshack offers a wide range of plumbing services. Our company has over 90 years of experience in the industry. Delivering quality plumbing services is always a priority. Contact our team today and see why we are one of the leading plumbing companies in Kingston, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, and surrounding areas!

Why Choose Toshack for Your Plumbing Needs?

Founded in the 1930s, Toshack has been a trusted provider of plumbing services in Kingston, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kemptville, and its surrounding areas for decades. Whether you need emergency repairs, routine maintenance, or new installations, our team of experienced technicians is here to help. We understand the unique needs of local homeowners and are committed to delivering exceptional service and reliable solutions.

Ready to get your plumbing system in peak condition? Get a quote for your plumbing maintenance needs today from Toshack!

Contact Toshack Today:

Book a Service Call

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Maintaining a healthy and comfortable home environment goes beyond regular cleaning and maintenance tasks. Your home’s air ducts play a critical role in ensuring good indoor air quality and efficient HVAC system performance. If you need clarification on whether it’s time to schedule a professional duct cleaning, Toshack is here to help. With years of experience serving  Brockville, Smiths Falls, Gananoque, Kemptville, and Kingston we’ll guide you through the signs that indicate your ducts may need professional attention.

Understanding Duct Cleaning

Duct cleaning involves a thorough cleaning of various heating and cooling system components, including air ducts, registers, grilles, and more. Over time, these components can accumulate dust, allergens, and contaminants, which, if left unchecked, can affect indoor air quality and HVAC efficiency. Professional duct cleaning services utilize specialized tools and high-powered vacuums to remove dirt and debris, ensuring a clean and healthy living environment.

Signs You Need Duct Cleaning

• Vermin Infestation: The presence of vermin, such as rodents or insects, in your ducts, is a clear indication that cleaning is necessary. These pests can leave behind droppings, nesting materials, and carcasses, posing health risks and compromising air quality.
• Mould Growth: Visible mould growth inside ducts or on HVAC components signals the need for cleaning. Mould can release spores into the air, exacerbating allergies and respiratory issues. Insulated ducts with mouldy insulation may require replacement.
• Dust and Debris Accumulation: Excessive dust and debris in your ducts can hinder airflow and impact indoor air quality. If you notice dust particles being released through supply registers or visible congestion in your ductwork, it’s time for cleaning.

Regular duct cleaning is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and HVAC efficiency. By recognizing the signs that indicate your ducts may need attention, you can ensure a clean and healthy living environment for you and your family. Trust Toshack to deliver exceptional duct cleaning services tailored to your needs in  Brockville, Smiths Falls, Gananoque, Kemptville, and Kingston.

Why Choose Toshack for Duct Cleaning

With Toshack, you can trust that your duct cleaning needs will be handled with expertise and care. Serving Ontario for decades, we understand the unique challenges faced by homeowners in  Brockville, Smiths Falls, Gananoque, Kemptville, and Kingston. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure thorough cleaning and optimal HVAC performance.

Get a Quote Today for Duct Cleaning Services with Toshack

Don’t let poor indoor air quality compromise your family’s health and comfort. Contact Toshack today for a quote on our professional duct cleaning services in  Brockville, Smiths Falls, Gananoque, Kemptville, and Kingston. Breathe easier with Toshack by your side.

Book a Service Call

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With summer here and the heat already starting to arrive in Brockville and Kingston, ensuring you keep your cooling system efficient and running at its peak is important. Whether you have an air conditioner or a heat pump, properly maintaining your system can mean spending less on energy costs over the summer months.

Our team at Toshack has compiled a few tips to help boost cooling efficiency this summer, so you can stay cool and comfortable in your home!

3 Ways to Maximize Your Air Conditioner’s Performance

1. Maintenance & Repairs 

Just like your car, an air conditioning system needs occasional maintenance to keep it running well – and to avoid costly repairs down the line. Ideally, before you start your A/C each summer, you should get a professional HVAC technician in Brockville or Kingston to check the system for issues and make any needed repairs. If you haven’t, and you feel like something may be off, be sure to have your HVAC technician take a look.

2. The Correct Thermostat Setting

Your thermostat can play a big part in managing your cooling costs and the overall lifespan of your A/C. Try to find a temperature that is comfortable, but without being super cold. Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can have a big impact on your energy bill. It may also make your cooling system work that much longer and harder, which can impact its lifespan.

Thanks to technological advances, you can invest in programmable and smart thermostats that make custom settings and efficiency easier for the homeowner. You can even program some thermostats to allow a slightly higher temperature during the day, only lowering when you expect people will be back in the house.

3. Change Your Filters

While often overlooked, a simple way to ensure your cooling system is functioning efficiently is to replace your filters regularly. A filter that is dirty and clogged will force your system to work harder and prevent air from passing through.

Be sure that you check to see the exact measurements of your air filter before going to the hardware store. There are many different brands and quality filters to choose from, and some can protect against certain allergens and bacteria. Be sure to do your research about which one is right for your needs.

Get Cooling System Installation, Repairs, & Maintenance

Toshack is proud to offer Brockville and Kingston quality HVAC services. We carry top air conditioning models from such brands as Lennox, an industry leader for many years. Whether you need repairs, maintenance, or installation, we’ve been providing HVAC solutions since the 1930s.

Get your free quote from our team by contacting us today!

At Toshack, we know buying a new water heater for your Brockville home is a big investment. Before you replace your old system, it’s important that you research and investigate things like the lifetime cost, energy efficiency, and durability of your new system. If you’re considering a tankless water heater, our Toshack team will help you make the right decision. We’ve put together everything you need to know about tankless systems, to help you decide if one is right for your home.

How A Tankless Water Heater Can Improve Your Brockville Home

• How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Also commonly referred to as on-demand water heaters, tankless water heaters can quickly heat water via burners that move water through a heat exchanger. Once through these heat exchangers, the water arrives at your faucets – and as the name suggests, there is no need to store water in a tank. Tankless water heaters can be powered by electricity or by gas and are generally up to 20% more efficient when compared to gas storage tank models.

• Energy Efficiency

Brockville homes that have tankless systems and consume under 150 litres of warm water every 24-hours can experience roughly 24-34% more energy efficiency when compared to tank models. In the event you have a big family and household, you can still get about 8-14% more energy efficiency from a tankless water heater. To maximize energy savings, you can even install a tankless system in every hot water outlet in your Brockville home. In some cases, this can produce energy savings of 25% to 50%.

• A Worthy Investment

While tankless water heaters may initially cost more upfront, the energy savings you will enjoy over the long run make them a worthy investment. Many tankless systems also have a longer lifespan when compared to certain storage tank models. Whatever solution you choose, the Toshack team will install a high quality water heater that will serve your family for years to come. 

Get Hot Water on Demand with a Tankless Water Heater

At Toshack, we can answer all your questions about tankless water heaters, HVAC systems and more. We’re proud to offer a variety of tankless services including installation, repairs, and maintenance. To learn more about your options, and for plumbing, heating, and cooling services, please contact our team to request your free quote.

Having your furnace go kaput can really throw a wrench in your household activities. Unfortunately, it’s something that can happen to anyone, even with the right maintenance and repairs. That’s why planning for such a scenario by having a reliable emergency furnace repair team on-call is essential. 

Below, Toshack has collected a few of the warning signs to help you determine when you have an emergency on your hands that needs to be fixed ASAP. 

Rapid Cycling 

Your furnace will cycle on and off throughout the day as part of its normal operation, but if it’s cycling all the time, there’s likely a larger issue at play. This could be caused by several issues, such as faulty wiring, thermostat problems, or a malfunctioning ignition system. All of these should be corrected immediately to avoid costly repairs or breakdowns. 

Thermostat Not Responding 

If you’re cranking your thermostat and don’t see any change in the temperature, it could be due to a furnace issue. A common causes of such a scenario is when your furnace’s ignition system isn’t turning on properly. There could also be leaks in your duct system, meaning the hot air is escaping rather than traveling throughout your home. 

Yellow Pilot Light 

The pilot light for your furnace should always be blue, never yellow. If you see it has a yellow pilot light, it could be caused by a carbon monoxide leak, which calls for emergency furnace repairs ASAP. Other issues include a high level of rust or condensation. Either way, calling for an expert will help keep your home safe and get your furnace back in working order again. For safety’s sake, you should also be sure to install at least one working CO detector on every floor in your home.

Other Symptoms 

Some other common symptoms that indicate a furnace is broken or on its last legs can include the smell of gas. This means there’s a leak somewhere in the system, a clear safety issue that requires immediate repairs. Strange noises are also another problem. Although it’s not uncommon for a few bumps and clangs to come from a furnace when starting up, repeated loud noises usually mean there’s a broken component that needs to be repaired or replaced. 

Let Toshack be your on-call emergency furnace repair team! 

In an emergency, you can’t wait for hours or days for a repair team to show up. If you’re in need of emergency furnace repairs, contact Toshack online today or call 1 (888) 547-6162. 

Nowadays, many homeowners are struggling with enough rising energy costs as it is, without having to worry about costly furnace repair and replacement issues. That’s why many have decided to switch to hot water on-demand, installing a tankless water heater in their Brockville or Kingston homes. 

If you’re a little wary to make the initial installation investment, the team from Toshack has collected some of the biggest advantages of going tankless below. 

1. Minimized Energy Costs 

One of the foremost advantages to hot water on-demand is that it offers reduced energy costs for several reasons. The first is that, since the water is heated only when you need it rather than sitting preheated in a tank until you use it, there’s less energy loss. Additionally, since tankless water heaters can often be installed in places closer to where they’re being used, the hot water doesn’t have to travel through a larger network of pipes to reach the shower, kitchen, etc., meaning hotter water in less time. 

2. Compact, Easy Installation 

Many prefer tankless water heaters because they’re much more compact than traditional alternatives. Larger water tanks and furnaces can take up a lot of space and often need to be installed somewhere out of the way, like an attic or basement. However, tankless water heaters can easily be installed out of view in a kitchen corner, making the process much simpler. 

3. Unlimited Hot Water On-Demand 

If you’re the type of person who likes to take long showers, then tankless water heaters are ideal for you. With hot water on-demand, you’ll never run out of hot water. With the right tankless water heater installed, you can take a hot, steamy shower for as long as you like. 

Let Toshack be your hot water on-demand experts! Are you considering switching out your current water heater for something more efficient? If so, the team from Toshack can answer any questions you have. Contact us online today to learn more about installing a new tankless water heater or call 1 (888) 547-6162.

Caring for your furnace and providing it with the proper annual maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure it has a long and healthy life. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and no matter how well you care for your furnace there will come a time when it gives out. 

Determining when it’s time for furnace replacement isn’t always easy, which is why the team from Toshack has collected some common signs for you below. 

1. Frequent Furnace Repairs 

Have you spent the last few years paying for your furnace to be repaired repeatedly? If so, you might ask yourself if it’s worth it. Often, a furnace replacement will be more affordable over the long term than paying for several repairs each year. 

2. Old Age 

According to most furnace manufacturers, furnaces have an average lifespan of around 15 years. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your furnace or it’s 10-15 years old, switching it out for a newer model can help you avoid costly issues and breakdowns, and often reduce energy costs. 

3. Increased Heating Bills 

You should never have a steadily increasing heating bill year after year. If so, it could be due to your aging furnace. Over the years, components become less effective and can cause spikes in heating bills. When you notice a significant increase, it might be beneficial to contact a local repair team to perform a heating and cooling inspection.  

4. Strange Noises 

A few subtle bumps every once in a while when your furnace is starting up is normal. But if it’s clanking and clanging all day long, there’s a larger issue at play. Often, a noisy furnace is a sign of broken internal components and serious damage that may need repairs or replacement. 

5. Yellow Pilot Light 

Your furnace’s pilot light is never supposed to be yellow. If it is, it likely means that your furnace is in dire need of repairs or replacement. A yellow pilot light could mean it’s at risk of producing carbon monoxide or not burning as cleanly and effectively as it could. Either way, having an expert come check it out is essential, as carbon monoxide can pose a deadly risk to those living in your household. For safety’s sake, you should also be sure to install at least one working CO detector on every floor in your home.

Let Toshack be your Brockville and Kingston furnace replacement team!Are you suffering from one or more of the above issues? If so, it’s likely time to invest in Brockville/Kingston furnace replacement services. To schedule an appointment with the team from Toshack, contact us online today. We also specialize in heating, cooling, and plumbing services, so call 1 (888) 547-6162 for a FREE quote!

The long winters in Ontario demand a reliable heating system that will last you through the cold months. When problems with your furnace or heating system arise, Toshack offers expert heating services in Kingston and Brockville. There are, however, a few things that you can do to prevent your heating system from failing. Continue reading “Heating Service Tips – 3 Ways to Prevent a Surprise Furnace Failure”