What Is That Switch Above Your Thermostat?
If you live in a home in the Grande Prairie region that was built after 1998, you might have noticed a wall switch near your thermostat that doesn’t seem to control a light. You’re not alone in wondering what it does. That switch is most likely part of your air-to-air exchange system, an important feature […]
Frozen Furnace Vents: What to Check During Extreme Cold
When the deep freeze of winter hits northern Alberta, it’s not unusual to see wind chills drop to minus 50 degrees Celsius or colder. While most of us stay inside where it’s warm, our heating systems—like furnaces and boilers—work even harder to keep our homes comfortable. But with that extra effort comes extra moisture, and […]
Why Are My Windows Frosting Up on the Inside?
If you’ve ever looked at your windows on a cold winter morning and noticed a layer of ice building up on the inside, you’re not alone. This is a common issue in cold climates like the Grande Prairie region, especially during a sharp drop in outdoor temperature. That frosty buildup might look harmless at first, […]
The Forgotten Furnace Part That Keeps Your Home Warm
If you have a high-efficiency furnace, there is an important part inside working hard to keep your home warm and your energy bills low. It’s called the secondary heat exchanger, and it’s what makes your furnace more efficient than older models. When this part gets blocked, your furnace can stop working. And in many cases, […]
Pests in Your Vents? What to Watch for Before Winter
As the weather cools down, everyone starts looking for a warm place to stay—and that includes birds, mice, and other small critters. In the fall, it’s common for pests to try to nest inside warm, protected spaces around your home. One of their favourite spots? Your furnace venting system. Every year, we hear from homeowners […]
HRV Maintenance: What Every Homeowner Should Know
If your home has a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV), you already have one of the best tools for keeping your indoor air fresh and energy-efficient, especially during Alberta’s long, dry winters. An HRV helps your home breathe by bringing in fresh outdoor air and sending stale indoor air out. At the same time, it captures […]
Gas Fireplace Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Gas fireplaces are a great way to stay warm and cozy during Alberta’s long winters. But like any appliance in your home, they need regular care to work properly and safely. If you use your fireplace often, it’s a good idea to give it a light cleaning as needed and plan for a full inspection […]
Why Duct Size Matters for Your Furnace, AC, and Home Comfort
When it comes to heating and cooling your home, most people focus on the furnace or the air conditioner. But there’s another key part of your system that often gets overlooked…the ductwork. Ducts are the hidden pathways that move warm or cool air through your home. If they are too small or too large, it […]
How to Keep Your Indoor Air Clean During Wildfire Season
Wildfires are becoming more common in our region. Even if a fire is far away, the smoke can travel through the air and reach your home. When that happens, the air inside your house can become just as unhealthy as the air outside. Breathing in smoke is not safe. It can make your eyes and […]
Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters: Is It Time to Make the Change?
Upgrading your home’s hot water system is a big decision. If your current water heater is aging or you want to improve energy efficiency, you may be wondering if now is the right time to switch to a tankless water heater. Both traditional tank and tankless (on-demand) water heaters have benefits and drawbacks. The best […]