What size furnace should I buy?

Square FootageFurnace BTU
1,000-1,200 sq. ft. Home40,000 - 60,000 BTU
1,200-1,500 sq. ft. Home60,000 BTU
1,500-1,800 sq. ft. Home60,000 - 80,000 BTU
1,800-2,500 sq. ft. Home80,000 - 100,000 BTU
2,500-3,500 sq. ft. Home100,000 to 120,000 BTU

Furnace Repair Near Me: Common Problems, Costs & When to Call a Pro 

When your furnace stops working in the middle of winter, finding fast, reliable help in your area becomes the priority. Homeowners often search for Furnace Repair Near Me during these moments, not because they want information, but because they need a local technician who can respond quickly and fix the problem safely. This is where Furnace Repair Near Me in Canada becomes essential for connecting homeowners with qualified local professionals.

A licensed furnace repair professional can diagnose the issue, explain your options clearly, and restore heat before a minor fault turns into a costly emergency.


Many furnaces give warning signs before they fail completely. Acting early can save money and prevent emergency breakdowns.

Call for furnace repair if you notice:

  • Cold air blowing from vents
  • Furnace turning on and off frequently (short cycling)
  • No heat despite the thermostat being set correctly
  • Unusual noises (banging, rattling, squealing)
  • Burning or gas-like odours
  • The pilot light is frequently going out
  • Rising heating bills with no change in usage

👉 These symptoms often indicate mechanical, electrical, or airflow issues that worsen during cold snaps.


Canadian winters place extreme stress on heating systems. The most common issues include:

1. Ignitor or Pilot Light Failure

Cold temperatures and wear can cause ignition components to fail, preventing startup.

2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

A blocked filter restricts airflow, leading to overheating, shutdowns, or cracked heat exchangers.

3. Blower Motor Problems

If air isn’t circulating properly, the furnace may run but not heat your home evenly.

4. Faulty Thermostat or Wiring

Older thermostats or loose wiring can misread temperatures or stop communication with the furnace.

5. Flame Sensor Issues

A dirty flame sensor can shut down the system as a safety precaution — a very common winter repair.


Costs vary by province, furnace type, and urgency, but here are typical furnace repair costs in Canada:

Repair TypeEstimated Cost (CAD)
Diagnostic service call$90 – $150
Thermostat replacement$150 – $400
Ignitor replacement$200 – $450
Blower motor repair$400 – $900
Flame sensor cleaning/replacement$120 – $300
Emergency furnace repair+$100–$300 surcharge

💡 Tip: Emergency repairs at night or during extreme cold usually cost more — preventative service saves money.


🚨 Emergency Furnace Repair 

  • No heat during freezing temperatures
  • Gas smell or carbon monoxide alarm triggered
  • Furnace shutting down repeatedly
  • Vulnerable occupants (seniors, children)

🕒 Non-Emergency 

  • Uneven heating
  • Noisy operation
  • Higher-than-normal utility bills
  • Furnace is still running, but inefficiently

Searching “emergency furnace repair near me” is common in winter — make sure the company offers 24/7 licensed service.


Not all HVAC companies are equal. Choose wisely:

✔ Licensed & insured technicians
✔ Experience with Canadian climate systems
✔ Clear, upfront pricing
✔ Emergency availability
✔ Strong local reviews (Google, BBB)
✔ Warranty on repairs

Avoid companies that:

  • Push full replacement immediately
  • Refuse written estimates
  • Lacks provincial certification

What to Expect During a Furnace Repair Visit

A professional furnace repair visit typically starts with a system diagnosis to identify the exact issue. Once the problem is found, the technician provides a clear explanation and written estimate before any work begins. After approval, the repair is completed using proper safety procedures, followed by testing to ensure the furnace is operating safely and efficiently.


Repair is usually better if:

  • The furnace is under 10–12 years old
  • The repair cost is under 30% of replacement
  • No major safety issues

Replacement may be smarter if:

  • The furnace is 15+ years old
  • Frequent breakdowns occur
  • The heat exchanger is cracked
  • Energy bills keep rising

📌 A trusted local technician should explain both options — not pressure you.


One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting for a furnace to fail before calling a technician. Preventive maintenance significantly reduces the chances of searching for “furnace repair near me” during the coldest night of the year.

Annual furnace maintenance typically includes:

  • Inspecting burners and the heat exchanger
  • Cleaning the flame sensor and ignition components
  • Testing gas pressure and airflow
  • Checking electrical connections
  • Replacing or cleaning air filters
  • Verifying safety controls and carbon monoxide levels

A properly maintained furnace operates more efficiently, more quietly, and more reliably. It also helps extend the lifespan of critical components like the blower motor and control board.

💡 Homeowners who schedule yearly maintenance experience fewer emergency repairs and lower overall heating costs.


Furnaces are powerful heating systems that involve gas combustion, electrical components, and high temperatures. Ignoring warning signs can put your home and family at risk.

Carbon Monoxide Risks

A cracked heat exchanger or blocked venting system can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. Symptoms include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea

If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off or you notice unusual smells, leave the home immediately and call emergency services, followed by a licensed furnace repair technician.

Gas & Electrical Hazards

Loose wiring, faulty ignition systems, or gas valve failures should never be treated as DIY fixes. Professional diagnosis is essential for safety and insurance compliance.

Licensed Furnace Repair & Safety Compliance in Canada

Furnace repairs should always be handled by licensed professionals who follow provincial safety regulations. In Ontario, gas appliances and furnace work are regulated by Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) to ensure safe installation, repair, and operation.

Homeowners are also encouraged to follow Government of Canada heating safety guidelines, which highlight the importance of proper ventilation, carbon monoxide monitoring, and regular furnace inspections—especially during winter months.

Hiring a qualified technician who complies with these safety standards reduces risks, protects your insurance coverage, and ensures your heating system operates safely and efficiently.


Older or inefficient furnaces tend to break down more often, especially under heavy winter demand. If your system struggles to maintain consistent temperatures, it may be working harder than designed.

Common signs of declining efficiency:

  • Rooms heating unevenly
  • Furnace running constantly
  • Sharp increases in utility bills
  • Longer warm-up times

Upgrading insulation, sealing duct leaks, and installing a programmable or smart thermostat can reduce system strain — lowering the risk of future repairs.


Not all repair estimates are equal. Knowing what a professional quote should include helps you avoid surprises.

A transparent furnace repair estimate should clearly list:

  • Diagnostic fee (and whether it’s credited toward repair)
  • Parts cost (OEM vs aftermarket)
  • Labour charges
  • Emergency or after-hours fees
  • Warranty on parts and labour

⚠️ Be cautious of companies that provide vague pricing or pressure you to approve work without explaining the issue.


For landlords and tenants, furnace breakdowns can become legal and safety issues.

  • Landlords are typically responsible for providing safe, functioning heat.
  • Tenants should report issues immediately and avoid tampering with the system.
  • Delayed repairs during winter may violate housing regulations.

Clear documentation, prompt service calls, and licensed repairs protect both parties.


Sudden cold snaps place extreme demand on heating systems. When outdoor temperatures drop rapidly:

  • Furnaces cycle more frequently
  • Older components fail under stress
  • Minor issues escalate into full shutdowns

This is why local furnace repair services are in the highest demand during peak winter weeks. Scheduling maintenance before winter significantly reduces breakdown risk.


Choosing a truly local repair company offers real advantages:

  • Faster response times
  • Familiarity with regional climate challenges
  • Knowledge of local codes and safety standards
  • Easier access to follow-up service and warranties

Local technicians are also more likely to prioritize long-term customer relationships rather than one-time repairs.

Furnace Repair Availability Across Local Ontario Cities

Furnace repair demand increases significantly during Ontario winters, especially in growing residential and mixed-urban areas where sudden cold snaps place heavy strain on heating systems. While furnace issues can happen anywhere, access to licensed, local furnace repair technicians often determines how quickly heat can be restored.

Homeowners in cities such as Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford, Cambridge, Kitchener, Milton, and Oakville often experience increased emergency furnace repair demand during peak winter months due to colder temperatures, ageing heating systems, and higher daily usage.

Local furnace repair professionals serving these areas are familiar with:

  • Ontario gas and heating safety regulations
  • Regional climate stress on furnaces
  • Common winter failure points in residential systems
  • Emergency response expectations during extreme cold

This local experience helps ensure faster diagnosis, safer repairs, and compliance with provincial heating and gas safety standards.


Postponing furnace repair doesn’t just affect comfort — it often leads to:

  • Higher energy bills
  • More expensive part failures
  • Reduced system lifespan
  • Increased emergency service charges

A $200 repair today can prevent a $2,000 breakdown tomorrow.


If your furnace shows signs of trouble, don’t wait for a complete failure. Early diagnosis protects your home, your budget, and your safety.

Best next steps:

  • Schedule a professional inspection
  • Address minor issues promptly
  • Ask about preventive maintenance plans
  • Keep emergency repair contacts handy during winter

Searching for “furnace repair near me” should lead you to a trusted local expert, not a rushed decision made in freezing conditions.


Q: How fast can local furnace repair be done?

Many local companies offer same-day or next-day service, especially during winter emergencies.

Q: Is furnace repair covered by home insurance?

Usually no, unless damage is caused by a covered event. Maintenance-related failures are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Q: Can I fix my furnace myself?

Basic tasks (filter changes) are fine. Gas, electrical, and safety components should only be handled by licensed professionals.

Q: How often should a furnace be serviced?

At least once per year, ideally in early fall before winter demand spikes.


If you’re searching “furnace repair near me”, choose a local, licensed Canadian HVAC professional who understands winter conditions, safety standards, and emergency response.

👉 Next step:

Fast action = safer home, lower costs, and reliable heat all winter long.

Found This Helpful?

FurnacePrices.com offers expert guides and access to certified local contractors. Visit our site to compare furnace options or request a free, no-obligation quote for your home.

At FurnacePrices.com, we bridge the gap between homeowners and reliable, vetted HVAC contractors—whether you’re installing a new furnace, upgrading your air conditioner, or replacing your full home comfort system.

📌 When Are You Planning to Install a New Furnace or Air Conditioner?

Tell us your installation timeline, and we’ll match you with the most suitable HVAC professionals in your area:

🔥 Need an urgent installation? (Next 2–3 days)
⏳ Planning your upgrade in the coming weeks?
🤔 Still comparing brands, prices, or contractor quotes?

👉 Request personalized furnace or AC quotes based on your timeline and Ontario location.

📍 Ontario Cities We Commonly Serve

FurnacePrices.com helps homeowners across Ontario compare heating and cooling systems, estimate installation costs, and connect with trustworthy contractors.

Frequently supported service areas include:

Our network covers most major and mid-sized regions in Ontario, ensuring expert assistance whether you’re replacing an older furnace/AC or upgrading to a high-efficiency model.

👉 See the full list of Ontario service regions

🏆Trusted by Leading Canadian HVAC Associations

Many companies in our contractor network are active members of respected national and provincial HVAC organisations, such as:

These affiliations indicate strong training standards, code compliance, and reliable installation practices.

💰 What Affects Furnace & AC Installation Pricing in Ontario?

Installation costs vary depending on:

Understanding these factors helps you plan your installation budget more accurately.

📞 Thinking About Installing a New Furnace or Air Conditioner?

Compare furnace or AC quotes from trusted, local HVAC professionals—quick, easy, and with zero pressure.

👉 Get fast, no-obligation heating & cooling quotes today

Hans Vaillancourt
Hans Vaillancourt
Articles: 98