When you come home, you want to relax in warmth and comfort. If your furnace isn’t blowing enough heat into your house, the cold weather can quickly lose its appeal. At Reliance Home Comfort™, we’ve been keeping Canadians warm for more than 60 years, and we’re here to keep homeowners in Windsor warm too.
There’s no reason to hibernate when the snow starts to fall. From enjoying a brisk walk by the river to taking in a Windsor Spitfires hockey game, Windsor offers plenty of winter fun for the whole family.
Our furnace technicians are always only a phone call away and can repair, service, or maintain different makes, models, and types of home heating systems. No matter where you live in Windsor, we can be at your home fast to troubleshoot and fix your furnace problem.
Did you know that regular service and maintenance can help keep your furnace or boiler working efficiently? You may save money on your home heating bills and avoid the unexpected cost and inconvenience of a furnace repair. With Reliance™ Windsor, scheduling a technician is as simple as booking online or giving us a call.
Here are your most common furnace questions, answered:
Is my home heated by a furnace or by a boiler?
If your home is kept warm by hot air blown through vents, you have a furnace system. If your home has radiators, radiant heating, or fan coils, you have a boiler system. Boiler systems are more commonly found in older homes.
How does my furnace heat air?
Your furnace ignites fuel in a combustion chamber, which heats up a coiled tube called a heat exchanger. When air is drawn across these coils it is heated up and then delivered to areas of your home through the ductwork.
How does my boiler work?
A boiler heats up a liquid – usually water or glycol – which is then distributed to radiators, radiant heating, and fan coils throughout your home.
Is there anything I can do to lower my home heating bills?
A professional energy audit can help you identify opportunities to make your home more energy efficient, which will lower your heating bills. You may qualify for grants to help you cover the cost.
Here are a few other ideas that may help you save energy without compromising your comfort:
When it’s time to upgrade your home heating system, choose a modern, high efficiency condensing furnace.
Install a programmable thermostat so you can monitor and control your energy use.
Prevent heat loss by sealing any leaky windows and cracks.
If your home is older, consider replacing the windows and adding more insulation to your attic and basement.
Why should I choose a high efficiency furnace?
A high efficiency furnace keeps your home warm without wasting energy. They have an AFUE rating between 92% – 98% and often use smart technology so you can be in control of your energy use whether you’re at home or away.
Why should I consider a whole home humidifier?
Many homeowners consider a whole home humidifier an investment in their health and in the value of their home. By keeping the humidity levels in your home stable all year long, a whole home humidifier may help your furnace run more efficiently while promoting healthy indoor air.
When do I need to call for a furnace inspection?
If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to call a furnace expert:
Your furnace isn’t keeping your home warm like it used to.
Your furnace is leaking water.
Your furnace is making unusual noises.
Your home heating bills are unusually high.
Your home is dustier than normal.
It’s time for me to upgrade my furnace. Should I rent or buy?
When you rent your furnace, you are responsible for one low monthly fee. We’ll look after most maintenance and repairs.
When you buy your furnace, you’ll have an upfront investment and you will be responsible for looking after your unit. Owning your furnace may be a good investment in the value of your home and you can protect yourself from unexpected repair costs with a comprehensive Protection Plan from Reliance™.
Your Reliance™ Home Comfort Advisor can help you decide which choice is right for you.
When I upgrade my furnace, should I get a new AC too?
It can make sense to upgrade your AC when it’s time for a new furnace. Systems designed to work together are more energy efficient and may save you on your energy bills. Talk to your Reliance™ Home Comfort Advisor about your options.
Click here to schedule furnace repairs and furnace maintenance.
Frank Ondracka is down to earth and knows the energy business. He answered all my questions and expl
...ained all the important information about my in-home environment. He also showed me how to save $$ and be comfortable with my new furnace and a/c. He went all out to find me the best deal and maximize the savings to make it easy on my budget. Thanks for everything Frank!
Danielle O
Matt M. And Andy A. Installed my new furnace today that did an amazing job.. very friendly and knowl
...edgeable.. Super happy with everything Thanks guys.
Mia S
Just had a new furnace installed by Matt M. and Andy A. from Reliance here in Windsor. They did a go
...od job, were efficient and friendly and explained everything, incl. use of the new thermostat. The new blower motor runs very quiet. We also want to thank Dan the Home Comfort Advisor. The whole process of getting the new furnace went much faster and smoother than we ever imagined.
Stephen P
Frank Ondracka is down to earth and knows the energy business. He answered all my questions and explained all the important information about my in-home environment. He also showed me how to save $$ and be comfortable with my new furnace and a/c. He went all out to find me the best deal and maximize the savings to make it easy on my budget. Thanks for everything Frank!
Danielle O
Matt M. And Andy A. Installed my new furnace today that did an amazing job.. very friendly and knowledgeable.. Super happy with everything Thanks guys.
Mia S
Just had a new furnace installed by Matt M. and Andy A. from Reliance here in Windsor. They did a good job, were efficient and friendly and explained everything, incl. use of the new thermostat. The new blower motor runs very quiet. We also want to thank Dan the Home Comfort Advisor. The whole process of getting the new furnace went much faster and smoother than we ever imagined.
"I had Jeff Lippert as a plumber to diagnosis the problem. He did and fixed it while explaining ever
...ything. Jeff was extremely nice and efficient and I will be using him again if needed."
Mama - Windsor
Highly recommend.
10 / 10
"Had signed up for a Tankless water heater. The serviceman Mark Chevalier (0245) showed-up to check
...the venting and install. It was determined that we were unable to adequately meet the requirements for venting for the tankless and therefore it could not be installed. Owing to the numerous tanks and repairs we had experienced over a 10-year period, Mark asked and arranged for installation for a new conventional hot water tank. He did a great job. Answered ALL my questions. He left the place clean and ready to use. Would highly recommend Mark - ANYTIME!!"
A Bouchat - Windsor
Excellent service.
10 / 10
I have a great experience with Reliance Technician- IAN #0217 who professional, patience and did an
...excellent job for me. He answered all my questions.
Having called customer service, they just sent a technician to come to check without any charge under warranty.
Excellent service. I appreciated it very much to have it.
- Maria
Nice & efficient.
10 / 10
"I had Jeff Lippert as a plumber to diagnosis the problem. He did and fixed it while explaining everything. Jeff was extremely nice and efficient and I will be using him again if needed."
Mama - Windsor
Highly recommend.
10 / 10
"Had signed up for a Tankless water heater. The serviceman Mark Chevalier (0245) showed-up to check the venting and install. It was determined that we were unable to adequately meet the requirements for venting for the tankless and therefore it could not be installed. Owing to the numerous tanks and repairs we had experienced over a 10-year period, Mark asked and arranged for installation for a new conventional hot water tank. He did a great job. Answered ALL my questions. He left the place clean and ready to use. Would highly recommend Mark - ANYTIME!!"
A Bouchat - Windsor
Excellent service.
10 / 10
I have a great experience with Reliance Technician- IAN #0217 who professional, patience and did an excellent job for me. He answered all my questions.
Having called customer service, they just sent a technician to come to check without any charge under warranty.
Excellent service. I appreciated it very much to have it.
- Maria
With one of the largest networks of furnace technicians in Windsor, we’re always happy to send an expert to your home. But sometimes, getting your heat working again is as simple as flipping a switch. Here are five furnace troubleshooting tips that may save you the inconvenience and cost of an unnecessary house call.
Is your thermostat set to ‘heat’?
It can be easy to forget to make the switch from ‘cool’ to ‘heat’ when summer ends.
Is your furnace switch in the correct position?
Your furnace has a disconnect switch. This safety feature disconnects your furnace from its power source and is usually found on the side of the unit or on the wall. If the switch gets flipped by mistake, your home won’t have heat.
Did your circuit breaker get turned off?
Your home’s breaker panel includes a circuit breaker for your home heating system. If you don’t feel any heat blowing into your home, check the panel and make sure the breaker marked furnace is in the right position.
Are your exterior furnace vents blocked?
Your exterior furnace vents lead from the outside of your home to your heating system. If they become blocked by snow, ice, debris, or small animals nesting inside you may notice that your furnace is working harder to heat your home. Take a look to see if they are clear but remember that a thorough furnace vent inspection should be left to a professional.
How old is your furnace filter?
Your furnace has a filter that should be changed or cleaned every three months, or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A dirty filter may affect the performance of your furnace. If you are not sure how to change the filter, or which filter is right for your system, your Reliance Home Comfort Advisor™ can help.
Click here to schedule furnace repairs and furnace maintenance.
Call for emergency service.
How can I keep my furnace running efficiently between services?
Clean or change your furnace every three months, or according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Dust your heating vents and radiators.
Create a clutter-free zone around your furnace.
Keep your exterior exhaust vents clear of snow, ice, and other debris.
Your furnace unit should only be opened and serviced by a professional furnace technician.
We offer upfront, transparent repair costs. You’ll know how much your repair will cost, before work begins.
We’re always here when you need us. With live telephone support 24/7, 365 days a year you’re never alone in a home heating emergency. If we can’t troubleshoot your problem over the phone, we’ll send help fast.
When you sign up for any Reliance Home Comfort™ Maintenance or Protection Plan you automatically save 10% on your furnace repair bill*.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, and cheques.
Our guarantees are some of the best in the industry.
Our furnace technicians follow our Technician Code of Conduct. They promise to call ahead, treat your home with respect, take precautions to minimize safety risks, and remain professional at all times. They’ll also diagnose your home heating problem, explain your options, and get your system fixed fast.
Click here to schedule furnace repairs and furnace maintenance
With one of the largest networks of furnace technicians in Windsor, we’re always happy to send an expert to your home. But sometimes, getting your heat working again is as simple as flipping a switch. Here are five furnace troubleshooting tips that may save you the inconvenience and cost of an unnecessary house call.
Is your thermostat set to ‘heat’?
It can be easy to forget to make the switch from ‘cool’ to ‘heat’ when summer ends.
Is your furnace switch in the correct position?
Your furnace has a disconnect switch. This safety feature disconnects your furnace from its power source and is usually found on the side of the unit or on the wall. If the switch gets flipped by mistake, your home won’t have heat.
Did your circuit breaker get turned off?
Your home’s breaker panel includes a circuit breaker for your home heating system. If you don’t feel any heat blowing into your home, check the panel and make sure the breaker marked furnace is in the right position.
Are your exterior furnace vents blocked?
Your exterior furnace vents lead from the outside of your home to your heating system. If they become blocked by snow, ice, debris, or small animals nesting inside you may notice that your furnace is working harder to heat your home. Take a look to see if they are clear but remember that a thorough furnace vent inspection should be left to a professional.
How old is your furnace filter?
Your furnace has a filter that should be changed or cleaned every three months, or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A dirty filter may affect the performance of your furnace. If you are not sure how to change the filter, or which filter is right for your system, your Reliance Home Comfort Advisor™ can help.
Click here to schedule furnace repairs and furnace maintenance.
We offer upfront, transparent repair costs. You’ll know how much your repair will cost, before work begins.
We’re always here when you need us. With live telephone support 24/7, 365 days a year you’re never alone in a home heating emergency. If we can’t troubleshoot your problem over the phone, we’ll send help fast.
When you sign up for any Reliance Home Comfort™ Maintenance or Protection Plan you automatically save 10% on your furnace repair bill*.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, and cheques.
Our guarantees are some of the best in the industry.
Our furnace technicians follow our Technician Code of Conduct. They promise to call ahead, treat your home with respect, take precautions to minimize safety risks, and remain professional at all times. They’ll also diagnose your home heating problem, explain your options, and get your system fixed fast.
Click here to schedule furnace repairs and furnace maintenance
This ultimate guide will help to answer any of your questions and provide the information needed to make smart and informed decisions about your home’s heating equipment.
With many different furnace types and trusted brands, selecting the right furnace can be a difficult decision. Here are a few important things to consider when selecting a new furnace for your home.
At Reliance™, our professional and licensed installation teams provide excellent and reliable service to get your new system up and running. Here’s what you can expect during your Furnace installation.
Understanding how a furnace works can help you make the right decisions about your home’s heating needs. Learn the basics of how a furnace works in this video.