4 Types of Home Heating Options to Choose From

And so the cold weather begins!

We’ve already experienced our first snow here in Sudbury, Ontario. 

Just this week, we received a weather advisory to keep off the roads in light of approaching snowfall.

Northern Ontario homeowners are bundling up for an intense winter season. From snow tires to insulation upgrades, Canadians are well on their way to preparing for winter.

Of course, one of the most crucial ways to prepare your home for winter is with the right Sudbury heating system. It should be reliable, affordable and support your lifestyle.

If you’re in the market for a heating upgrade, this article is for you!

Our home heating experts break down 4 different heating systems - from furnaces to heat pumps!

We ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision for your home. 

Psst…if you have questions or want a FREE QUOTE, don’t hesitate to contact our team!

1. Furnace

Forced air furnaces are central heating systems - meaning they heat the entire house from one unit.

Did you know that furnaces are the primary home heating system in Canada? Over half of Canadian households reported having a forced air furnace in 2021 (Statistics Canada). In Ontario, that number is even higher - at 75%!

Why is this type of heating so popular? Let’s find out!

How It Works:

Forced air furnaces burn fuel to produce heat. That heat then passes through a heat exchanger, making that component hot.

Air from your home is then blown over the hot heat exchanger - effectively warming it.

Distribution:

Once the air is warm, it is blown (forced) throughout your home using a system of ducts.

Top Advantage:

A central furnace system uses the same ductwork as a central cooling system. So you can hook both units up to the same distribution system for all-year-round comfort!

Top Disadvantage:

Depending on the type of fuel used, furnaces can cause a risk of risk of fire, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Available Fuel Types:

• Natural Gas
• Propane
• Oil
• Electricity

2. Fireplace

Fireplaces are gorgeous additions to your home. They can drastically elevate your living space, create a cosy atmosphere, and bring people together.

These systems also offer an effective solution for zone heating!

How It Works:

There are a few different types of fireplaces - gas, wood, electric, etc.

Essentially, a fireplace creates heat similarly to how a furnace does - by burning fuel.

Distribution:

The heat from a fireplace warms your home using radiant heat. Radiant heat warms objects and people in the room as they absorb it.

It’s the same type of heat you would feel from a bonfire or even from the sun! 

Top Advantage:

Fireplaces offer fast and effective zone heating. They are also a great form of supplementary heat or when certain areas of your home are colder than others.

Top Disadvantage:

Depending on the chosen fuel type, fireplaces involve a lot of upkeep and maintenance. They can also become extremely dirty.

Available Fuel Types:

• Gas
• Propane
• Wood
• Electricity

3. Boiler

A boiler is a unique water heating system. Instead of carrying heat in the air, boilers use water to distribute that heat into your home.

While boilers typically provide home heating, they have other uses too! Driveway, swimming pool and hot tub heating are just a few other uses!

How It Works:

Boilers heat water in a central boiler with your chosen fuel type. The heated water or steam produced in this process then travels through pipes to radiators or baseboard heaters in your home.

Once the water cools, it returns to the central boiler to reheat.

Related Article: How Do You Choose The Right HVAC Boiler For Your Home?

Distribution:

Boiler systems distribute heat by sending hot water through a network of pipes in your home. That water then radiates into your home!

Top Advantage:

Boilers are especially known for distributing even, consistent heating.

Top Disadvantage:

Boilers are only used for heating. They cannot cool - making the piping a bit useless for half the year.

Available Fuel Types:

• Natural Gas
• Oil
• Propane
• Electricity

4. Heat Pump

Heat pumps are an up-and-coming home heating and cooling technology. This HVAC system is quickly becoming the favourite for homeowners looking to save money.

How It Works:

There are a few different types of heat pumps, each relying on a different source.

Heat pumps collect thermal energy from water, the earth (geothermal) or the air. They then use that energy to heat your home.

Related Article: Your Energy-Efficient Answer to Year-Round Heating and Cooling

Distribution:

Heat pumps distribute heat throughout your home using ductwork. This makes them a form of central heating!

Top Advantage:

Because these systems transfer heat rather than create it, they can reach up to 400% efficiency!

Top Disadvantage:

These systems aren’t as effective in colder climates. Most heat pumps need a supplementary heating system installed as well. Electrical heating is usually a popular choice for a backup system.

At Campeau Heating, we offer a Hybrid Heat Pump that combines your existing HVAC system with a heat pump component. So you can heat and cool your home with gas, electricity, or both!

Related Article: Should You Replace Your Furnace With a Heat Pump?

Available Fuel Types:

• Ground (Geothermal)
• Air Source
• Water Source

The Bottom Line

Your heating system is the backbone of your home.

We all know how unpredictable Sudbury’s winter weather can be. Ensuring you have the right system to support your home, family, and budget is crucial.

This is an important decision, and our team of heating experts is always here to help. We hope the above guide is helpful in your search for a heating upgrade.

Understanding how each system works and how each can benefit you can help further inform your decision. This information is especially helpful in saving time and money down the road.

Get a Free Quote!

At Campeau Heating, we ensure you have the best heating at the best cost. Get a free quote today on the heating system of your choice!

Call us at 705-560-2441 or request a quote online.

Furnace Smells To Watch Out For & What To Do Next

If you haven’t already cranked the heat up, you will soon! Ontario’s winter forecast is in, and it’s going to be a doozy! 

With low temperatures and lots of snow, homeowners are in for it. Better make sure your furnace is ready to take the hit! 

If you sense anything amiss with your heating system, now is the time to get it fixed. 

Speaking of which…

In this article, our Campeau Heating team explores some not-so-welcome furnace smells. If you’ve yet to turn your furnace on this year, you’ll want to keep these smells in mind. They are warning signs, after all, potentially pointing to bigger issues.

It’s our mission to help you catch these furnace smells before they turn into big repair bills!

Unsafe Furnace Smells & What To Do Next

These are the furnace smells you shouldn’t ignore - they could pose a threat to your health, HVAC equipment and home!

Chemicals (Formaldehyde)

First up is the smell of formaldehyde. 

Formaldehyde is a colourless chemical with a strong, almost pickle-like odour. 

At room temperature, this chemical becomes a gas, making it a volatile organic compound (VOC). 

Burning natural gas, gasoline, wood, tobacco and kerosene all produce formaldehyde. Your system should contain the smell unless there is a crack in your heat exchanger. 

While invisible to you, formaldehyde is quickly sensed by your body or environment. 

At low levels, it can irritate your nose, eyes and throat. 

At high levels, it can pose a fire hazard and cause your furnace to leak carbon monoxide.

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Turn your furnace off. 

Step 2. 

• Evacuate immediately. 

Step 3. 

• Call a professional. 

Rotten Eggs 

The smell of rotten eggs should sound alarm bells in your mind. This furnace smell is one you should always be aware of and on the watch for. 

Natural gas is a highly flammable material that can cause a huge fire hazard and gas poisoning. 

Because natural gas is odourless, suppliers treat it with something called mercaptan. Mercaptan is what gives off that distinctive rotten egg smell.

They treat the gas so a leak can be easily and quickly detected.

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Evacuate immediately. 

Step 2.

• Call a professional and/or the fire department right away. 

Smoke 

If your furnace smells like smoke, this could mean you have a blocked chimney. If this happens, your furnace could start venting smoke through your air ducts and into your home! 

What To Do:

Step 1.

• If the smell is faint, call a professional and open windows in your home to increase ventilation. 

Step 2. 

• If the smell is strong, evacuate your home and then call a professional to handle the issue.

Burnt Electrical 

A burnt electrical smell could point to:

• An overheated furnace.
• Damaged rubber components.
• Damaged metal components.

Each of these potential issues poses a safety risk in your home. So don’t ignore it! 

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Turn off your furnace right away. 

Step 2. 

• Call a professional. 

Hot Metal

The smell of hot metal is like that of burning electrical. But typically, it has more of an iron scent.

This smell could point to an electrical issue or an overheating problem. 

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Call a professional. 

Burning Plastic

If your furnace smells like burning plastic, there’s typically a very obvious culprit in the way. 

The smell of burning or melting plastic typically points to exactly that - a piece of plastic next to or touching your furnace. 

It could be something as small as a dog toy left too close to your system!

What To Do:

Step 1.

• If safe to do so, remove the plastic. If not, call a professional to do it for you!

Harmless Furnace Smells

These are the smells that you don’t need to worry about - they’re completely harmless! 

In most cases, these smells are natural to furnace operation. But if any of these smells are new to you or make you uncomfortable, we highly recommend giving us a call.

Our priority is always your safety, comfort and peace of mind. And our furnace experts work with these systems all day, every day. We know them in and out! 

We’ll let you know if the smell is safe or if it has escalated into something harmful. 

Mustiness 

Musty furnace smells are typically nothing to worry about. The cause is usually moisture trapped inside your furnace. This moisture and smell should both dissipate in a few hours.

If, however, the smell does not leave after a few hours, it may mean you have mould growing in your furnace. 

Because mould can be toxic, you should monitor this smell the minute you sense it. 

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• If the smell lasts more than a few hours, call a professional. 

Burning Oil (Diesel)

The smell of burning oil typically points to a clogged furnace filter. Thankfully, this is one of the easiest smells to fix - all you need is a new filter!

Related Article: How To Choose and Care For Your Furnace Filter 

We recommend changing your furnace filter every 90 days. If you have a large family or pets, this could increase to every 30-60 days!

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Change your furnace filter. If this doesn’t work to get rid of the smell, call a professional. 

Burnt Dust 

The smell of burnt dust is very typical if you've just powered on your furnace. 

Over the summer, the system’s been sitting in the basement, collecting dust. When turned on again, that dust then begins to burn away. No wonder you can smell it throughout the house!

Don’t worry. It usually only takes a few hours for the smell to leave. 

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Let your furnace run until the smell dissipates. If that doesn’t work, call a professional.

Dirty Socks

If you’re smelling dirty socks, your nose probably isn't far off from the truth. 

This smell typically indicates a buildup of bacteria in your furnace.

This buildup is usually caused by a buildup of condensation - causing a repulsive odour. 

What To Do:

Step 1. 

• Schedule a furnace cleaning and replace your filter. If this doesn’t work, book a duct cleaning! 

Trust Your Nose - Give us a call!

When it comes to weird furnace smells, you have to trust your nose. While many smells aren't a cause for concern, others could put you and your family at risk. 

Keep the above list handy this winter! You never know when you might need to reference it. 

We also encourage all our Sudbury homeowners to invest in preventative furnace maintenance. 

During this visit, we ensure your furnace is ready for the harsh season ahead. We do our best to lower the rest of furnace breakdowns, leaks and other untimely repairs.

Give our Sudbury heating team a call at 705-560-2441 or contact us online!

Should You Replace Your Furnace With a Heat Pump?

Old man winter is on his way! It’s only a matter of time before our lakes freeze over and our trees are heavy with snow. 

In Northern Ontario, we are no stranger to frigid winters. The real challenge is preparing our homes to take on the cold before it hits! 

According to Farmer’s Almanac, we can expect quite the cold and snowy season ahead. If you like skiing or snowmobiling, this is your year! White, fluffy snow and below-average temperatures are well on the way.

But while you gear up for a fun winter outdoors, it’s crucial that you also set up your heating system. 

Living in Northern Ontario has taught us one very valuable lesson: 

Investing in reliable and affordable heat is imperative!

Is your Sudbury heating system built to withstand the frigid weather ahead? Nobody wants to experience winter with pricy heating and repair bills.

This leaves many homeowners asking whether replacing their furnace with a heat pump is the way to go. 

After all, heat pumps are one of the most effective ways to save money on your heating bills!

But replacing your entire system isn’t always the answer. 

In this article, we discuss one of our most popular heating upgrades - the hybrid heat pump! 

When Is It Time To Upgrade Your Furnace?

Replacing or upgrading your furnace is a big investment. If you’re like most homeowners, you’re planning to wait until it's 100% broken before taking the plunge.

While this may be a good option when saving up for a new heating system, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. 

Waiting until your furnace stops working means you’ll be making that dreaded no-heat call. 

The call nobody wants to make! 

It always seems to happen at the worst time - in the middle of the night, during an ice storm or before a big family get-together. 

If your furnace stops working in the middle of winter, the temperature in your home is bound to drop - fast! This puts your family at risk - especially if you have young children or elderly individuals living in your home. 

No heat also risks your other home appliances, plumbing and HVAC systems.

No-Heat Risks:

• Frozen pipes 
• Gas leaks
• Elevated carbon monoxide 

For this reason, we typically recommend watching out for a few furnace warning signs. Unusual noises, strange smells and uneven heating are just a few that you should watch out for. 

Furnace Warning Signs:

• Poor indoor air quality 
• Frequent cycling on and off 
• Frequent repair visits 
• Excessive dust in your home 
• Unusually high heating bills 

You’ll also want to check the age of your furnace. These systems last roughly 15-30 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, you’ll want to start planning an upgrade very shortly.

Heat Pump vs. Furnace

Now that you know when to replace your furnace, it’s time to explore your options. 

Today, many homeowners are switching from a traditional furnace to a more affordable heating unit. One of the most popular upgrades is from a fuel furnace to a heat pump. And it’s no wonder! 

With today’s advanced technology, heat pumps can reach 300-400% efficiency! 

Related Article: The 2-in-1 Heat Pump - Your Energy Efficiency Answer to Year-Round Heating and Cooling

Heat Pump 

A heat pump is an all-in-one furnace and air conditioner.

This system transfers thermal energy to heat or cool your home. 

In the winter, it can reduce your energy usage by up to 50% compared to electric resistance heating - a must for Sudbury heating!

There are a few different types of heat pumps, depending on the source of thermal energy. The two most popular sources include air and geothermal. But there is an option to use a nearby water source as well!

Heat pumps even offer improved indoor air filtering and dehumidification!

Pros

• Improved home comfort
• Lower energy bills 
• Heating & cooling compatibility 
• Improved air quality 

Cons

• Loses efficiency in lower temperatures 
• Higher upfront costs 
• Lasts 10-15 years

Furnace 

A furnace is a forced air heating system. Instead of transferring existing heat, it uses combustion to create new heat. 

Furnaces typically burn fuel (i.e. gas, oil or propane) to create heat. But there are also electric and wood furnaces.

Furnaces have been around since the 1800s. But the process of burning fuel for heat existed long before that. It is a tried and true heating method, and it’s not going anywhere! 

Pros 

• Improved home comfort 
• Reliability in lower temperatures 
• Lasts 15-30 years

Cons

• Only offers heat 
• Only reaches up to 90% efficiency 
• Higher operation costs

Today, forced air furnaces are still considered Canada's primary home heating system. But don't let that sway you! 

In light of increased energy efficiency, heat pumps continue to climb in popularity! 

Global sales of heat pumps grew by 11% in 2022 alone!

Thankfully, there’s a way to combine the systems and get the best of both worlds.

Introducing The Hybrid Heat Pump

The hybrid heat pump is a dual system that combines your existing furnace with a heat pump. 

This upgraded system brings homeowners the benefit of both systems. Your system alternates between them accordingly, depending on which is more efficient at the time. 

Hybrid heat pump systems intuitively know when to use one unit over the other. They switch depending on the season, necessary function and temperature.

This dual operation ensures optimal efficiency and home comfort!

Benefits of Upgrading to a Hybrid Heat Pump

Hybrid heat pump systems are great for Ontario homeowners.

As we all know, Ontario experiences all four seasons to their full extent. Our summers are hot and humid. Our winters are frigid and snowy. In Northern Ontario, we especially get the brunt of the weather!

That’s why efficient and reliable Sudbury heating is so crucial. It can make or break your budget and your home comfort!

A hybrid system selects the most efficient heating/cooling unit based on a few factors. It then heats/cools your home as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

The goal? To ensure you don’t pay more than you need to for optimal home comfort.

Benefits of a Hybrid Heat Pump

1. Lower Carbon Footprint
2. Efficient Heating
3. Energy-Cost Resilience
4. Easy Operation
5. Year-Round Home Comfort

See Our Napoleon Hybrid Heat Pump Model

Get a Free Quote 

With the rising need for energy efficiency, we offer only the most affordable and effective heating solutions. 

That’s why we work with innovative HVAC suppliers like Napoleon! 

Napoleon offers unmatched technology and design - providing homeowners with effective, efficient, and affordable HVAC.

Canada Greener Homes Grant

Apply Now

Save up to $5,600 on a new hybrid heat pump!

The Government of Canada is helping Canadians increase energy efficiency in their homes - for less.

Their goal is to help you save money and fight climate change.

Here's how this helps you!

GRANTS FROM $125 TO $5,000

To get back a portion of your costs for eligible home retrofits.

UP TO $600

This is a maximum contribution toward the total costs of your pre and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations.

Learn more about the Canada Greener Homes Grant.

Get In Touch

We’ve already been busy helping Sudbury homeowners wind down their A/Cs and prep their furnaces!

Are you ready to get your furnace geared up for the season? 

Give us a call at 705-560-2441! 

We’ll help you find the best Sudbury heating solution for your home, budget and lifestyle. 

Before You Switch From Cooling To Heating in Sudbury, Ontario!

It’s official - fall arrives tomorrow!

Pumpkins and sweaters are in full swing. Kids are back in school. Thanksgiving and Halloween are just around the corner!

While we have mixed feelings about saying goodbye to summer, we can’t deny our excitement for fall. 

After all, heating is in our name!

From fireplaces to furnaces, we work with all kinds of heating systems.

We wrote this article to get you in the cosy, fall mood and us hyped for the season ahead!

In it, you’ll find everything you need to know about switching from A/C to heat.

The Risk of Waiting For Cold Weather To Arrive

Powering up home heating in Sudbury, Ontario, isn’t usually a proactive thought. Unfortunately, homeowners don’t get a lot of warning before that first frost hits.

This typically means you wake up to a frigid morning - frantically trying to warm your home up.

While this frantic running around might work in a pinch, it’s not ideal. Not only are you left with the risk of bad air quality and an inefficient system, but you also put your plumbing at risk!

Frozen pipes are no joke. They can lead to some pricy plumbing repairs and even cause water damage to your home.

So, how do you ensure your switch from cooling to heating goes smoothly?

Start preparing today!

How To Prepare Your Heating System For a Smooth Start-Up

To some, it may seem quite early to start thinking of your heating. But we promise you it’s not!

Every year, our emergency repair team gets calls from stressed-out homeowners unprepared for the cold.

Thankfully, after a last-minute tuneup and a few plumbing repairs, they’re on their way! But not without a few unexpected bills…

Preparing your heating system in advance ensures:

• Peak Performance
• Optimal Functionality
• High Efficiency
• Fewer Repairs Throughout The Year
• Lower Heating Bills
• 24/7 System Reliability

Here’s how to get started!

1. Replace The Air Filter

We recommend replacing your air filter at least every 90 days.

Why?

Because a clean filter helps ensure a high-functioning system.

Not only does it keep your system moving air efficiently, but it also ensures that the air is clean.

Clogged air filters wreak havoc on your system and air quality - not a great start to the season!

How do you change your furnace filter on your own? We wrote a whole blog about caring for your furnace filter last year!

Give it a read, and call us if you have any questions.

2. Clear Away Obstructions

Everyone needs space to breathe - even your heating system!

The area you have to clear depends on which system you have.

For example, if you have a fireplace, you’ll want to ensure,

a) The area surrounding it is clear of fire hazards and

b) The chimney flue is clear to prevent smoke and soot in your home.

If you have a furnace, you’ll want to ensure,

a) No nearby clutter can cause a safety issue,

b) No nearby items can reduce airflow, and

c) No nearby products can emit fumes or cause a fire hazard.

What if you have a heat pump?

With a heat pump, you’ll want to focus on the outdoor unit. Here, you’ll ensure no nearby shrubs/bushes are reducing airflow and system performance.

If you have a heat pump, we recommend reading up on preparing your heat pump for peak performance this fall. While many steps are the same from system to system, there are a few specifics to note for a heat pump.

3. Clean Your Heating System

For optimal performance, you should also clean the internal components of your system.

This will, again, differ from system to system.

If you have a fireplace, you’ll need to clean the

• Glass Covering
• Andirons
• Grate

We also recommend clearing the ash and scrubbing out grime with a bristol brush.

If you have a furnace, we recommend focusing your efforts on cleaning the

• Burners
• Blower

Cleaning these parts helps ensure the system runs smoothly. It also helps prevent that classic burning dust smell at the start of the year.

4. Clean Your Ductwork/Vents/Chimney

Next up, clean your ductwork, vents and chimney flues (depending on which system you have).

It’s crazy how much dust, dirt and grime pile up in these areas.

We recommend having your ducts and vents cleaned every 3-5 years. If you live in a dustier area (i.e. on a farm), you may want to up it to every 1-2 years.

Your chimney, on the other hand, should have an annual cleaning.

Typically, we’d recommend this cleaning in the spring, as the buildup is easier to clean then. However, if you missed it this last spring, you can still do it now!

5. Test Your Devices

Once your system is clean, it’s time to test things out.

Carbon Monoxide Detector

First up is your carbon monoxide detector.

Psst…we actually recommend that you do this monthly!

To test it, press and hold the test button on the alarm. You should hear 4 beeps, a pause and then 4 beefs for 4-5 seconds (may differ for your specific model).

Don’t forget to change the batteries every 6 months!

Smoke Alarm

Whether your smoke alarm is battery-powered or hardwired, it’s easy to test! 

Just press the button on your smoke alarm and hold it down. If the alarm sounds, it’s good to go!

Like your CO detector, don’t forget to change your smoke alarm’s batteries every 6 months!

Thermostat

Turn your thermostat to heat and listen for your furnace to power up. If you hear it cycle on and feel the heat coming from your floor vents, it’s good to go!

If you don’t, it’s time to give our heating techs a call.

6. Schedule Your Fall Furnace Maintenance

Book Now

Lastly, schedule your fall furnace tuneup!

This is typically a precautionary step that we recommend to

a) Ensure optimal performance all winter long,

b) Reduce the risk of unexpected repairs,

c) Help lower your heating bills.

It also helps elongate your system’s life span and ensure good air quality!

When To Switch From A/C To Heat

We recommend switching to heat when outdoor temperatures drop below 60 degrees. However, every home is different! Your heating preference might be slightly higher or lower than that.

The key is to ensure your heat is on before that first frost. This will help prevent plumbing repairs and water damage in your home!

Is it okay to switch between air conditioning and heating?

If you do it correctly, this shouldn’t be a problem!

• Always wait until your system completes its current cycle before switching.
• Don’t set your thermostat too high or low - this could cause unnecessary strain on your system.

What is the best temperature to set your thermostat in the fall/?

We all know the stress of high heating costs.

To help lower those unwelcome bills, we recommend using the following guide:

• Set your thermostat to 20 degrees C while you are home during the day.
• Set your thermostat to 17 degrees C overnight or when nobody is home.

Keeping your thermostat settings within this range ensures a safe and comfortable temperature. It also prevents unnecessarily stressing out your system or raising your heating bills.

More tips to help keep your home warm for less!

Things To Remember For When You First Turn The Heat Up

Here are a couple of things to remember when turning your system on for the first time:

Be Patient - Don’t Rush it!

A common mistake that many homeowners make is cranking the heat up right away.

This is not something we recommend, as it puts unnecessary strain on your furnace. This can leave you with a ridiculous furnace repair and heating bill!

Instead, we recommend taking the process slow. When temperatures start to drop, turn your A/C off.

Then, as it gets colder, turn the furnace on at a lower temperature. Slowly, over a few days, you can raise the temperature to your preference!

Don’t Ignore Strange Noises or Smells

During that first week of heat, we recommend paying close attention to the smells and sounds of your home. Does anything seem off?

Some furnace noises, like a pop, click or dull hum, are typical. But strange furnace noises, like shrieking or whistling, can point to a repair issue.

Smells, like must, rotten eggs or burning plastic, should also sound alarm bells in your mind.

Here are a few more furnace warning signs to look out for!

Start The Season Off Right With Campeau Heating

Ready for a warm and cosy fall season ahead?

Get in touch with our Campeau Heating technicians today! We ensure high efficiency and affordable heating in Sudbury homes all winter!

Call us at 705-560-2441 or contact us online!

Prep Your Heat Pump For Peak Performance This Winter

It’s hard to believe that fall is just around the corner. After all, Sudbury experienced a crazy heat wave just a few days ago!

Heat warnings of 29 degrees Celsius sent us all running indoors to cool down. Thank goodness for well-working air conditioners!

We only had to make a few quick repair visits to help keep our clients cool during those sweltering days.

Thankfully, the rest of September looks to be cooling down. Highs of 22 degrees and lows of 11 degrees signal that summer is coming to a close. And while fall isn’t here yet, the coming cold is inevitable!

We’ve experienced too many surprise freezes over the years to leave you hanging this fall. Our team is here to help prepare your HVAC before that first frost hits.

In today’s article, we'll provide everything you need to know about prepping your heat pump for the cold. Keep reading to ensure your system operates at maximum efficiency and performance!

Heat Pumps Operate Differently In The Cold

Is this your first year with a heat pump? If so, congratulations on making the switch! Heat pumps are a great investment for your budget and the environment.

You probably know how your system operated over the summer months. But do you know how it works in the winter?

The cooling process is essentially reversed!

Instead of moving heat from the indoors to the outdoors, it transfers outdoor heat into your home.

Depending on the type of heat pump you have, your system extracts heat from the air, ground or water source.

Incredible, right?

Most basic heat pumps operate efficiently until -8 degrees. But there are also models that can work in temperatures as low as -30 degrees!

Learn More About How Heat Pumps Work Here.

7 Tips To Prepare Your Heat Pump For The Cold

October will be here before you know it! Our team has put together a quick list to help ensure your heat pump operates at peak performance throughout the cold season ahead.

Let’s get started!

1. Keep the area surrounding your heat pump unobstructed.

If you had a traditional A/C before installing a heat pump, you would have done this already. Typically, we recommend this simple care step for all outdoor units.

Here’s why:

Shrubs, bushes and other debris can prevent your outdoor unit from operating correctly. These obstructions restrict airflow and can even cause damage to your system.

Keeping the area surrounding your outdoor HVAC unit clear is vital. It ensures maximum efficiency and proper airflow - resulting in better overall performance.

Note: Refer to your system manual for clearance recommendations on your specific model.

2. Protect your outdoor unit from the weather.

Besides keeping your unit clear of obstructions, you also want to protect it from the weather.

But be careful!

Traditional A/C coverings can actually obstruct airflow, just as a nearby shrub can.

For this reason, we don’t recommend traditional A/C coverings for your heat pump. Instead, we suggest installing a cover designed specifically by your unit’s manufacturer.

This cover will

a) Block your unit from falling snow and ice.

b) Act as a windbreaker.

3. Schedule preventative maintenance.

Next up, schedule your annual preventative maintenance visit!

While your heat pump is pretty self-sufficient, we do recommend booking a yearly visit.

During this maintenance visit, our techs will:

• Lubricate mechanical components.
• Measure refrigerant levels.
• Check/Fix any cracks and leaks.
• Inspect belts, pulleys and other parts.
• Replace the air filter.
• Inspect electrical wiring/connections.
• Inspect blower wheels and motors.
• Clean condenser coil fans.
• Flush out the drain line.
• Test heat pump controls.
• Check the defrost function.
• Monitor coil temperatures.
• Check safety features.
• Test the thermostat.

This may seem like an extensive list, but each is essential in

a) Ensuring maximum unit efficiency

b) Preventing mid-season breakdowns/failures, and

c_ Ensuring peak performance.

Book your fall preventative maintenance visit with our Campeau Heating team today!

4. Clean your ductwork.

Since a heat pump is a form of whole-house heating and cooling, your ducts will also need a thorough cleaning.

This maintenance step is typically forgotten (or avoided) by most homeowners. After all, out of sight, out of mind, right?

Maybe not.

The longer you wait to clean your ducts, the worse your air quality will be.

Over time, dust and debris start to accumulate in your ductwork. This can worsen the air quality in your home and cause your system to work harder - lowering efficiency.

Our Campeau Heating team recommends cleaning your ducts every 3-5 years.

5. Clean your air vents and registers.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to clean your air vents/ and registers too!

You’d be surprised how grimy these can get over time. Unfortunately, it’s just another one of those tasks easily put on the back burner.

However, the good thing about this job is that it doesn’t need a routine schedule. Cleaning your air vents and registers is typically done on an as-needed basis.

6. Replace your air filter.

If you’ve already scheduled your preventative maintenance visit, skip this step! Your techs will take care of your filter switch for you.

However, if you aren’t scheduling a maintenance visit this fall, listen up!

Changing your air filter at least every 90 days is crucial for good air quality and system efficiency. This simple step prevents system failure, lowers energy bills and removes health risks.

7. Change your thermostat from “cool” to “heat”.

The final step is switching your thermostat from automatic cooling to automatic heating. This switch reverses the valve inside your heat pump - causing it to work in reverse. Instead of pulling heat from the indoors to the outdoors, it will do the opposite!

Remember, a heat pump isn’t a furnace. You may notice that air from your vents seems cooler than typical furnace heat. This is normal!

Heat pumps transfer heat rather than create it. So, while the warmth you feel may seem minimal, it is highly efficient.

Beware of Your Heat Pump’s Defrost Cycle

You'll typically notice the defrost cycle kick on in -30-degree weather.

The purpose of the defrost cycle is to remove layers of ice covering your outdoor unit.

We usually warn our heat pump customers about this function, since it can seem unnatural. But, this function is actually automatic and 100% necessary.

It's also typically not something you need to worry about. But you should know when it isn’t working correctly.

If the defrost cycle operates correctly, the process will take about 10-15 minutes. During this time, you’ll probably also notice that the air from your vents feels cool.

Don’t worry! It’ll heat back up soon.

If the defrost cycle isn’t operating correctly, you may notice two things:

a) There is a large amount of ice covering your heat pump. This would mean the system failed to remove the ice automatically.

b) The defrost cycle kicks on too often. This could point to an inefficient system or a necessary repair.

If either of these things happens, call your Campeau Heating technician!

Get In Touch

Are you ready for the fall season ahead? Our team ensures your HVAC is ready to keep you and your family warm all season long.

Preparing your heat pump for the cold ensures peak:

• Performance,
• Efficiency,
• Savings and
• Comfort.

Need help prepping your system? Give us a call at 705-560-2441 or contact us online!

Don't have a heat pump yet, but looking to install one? Learn how you can save $5600 on a new heat pump with the Canada Greener Homes Grant!

Winding Down Your A/C For Fall: 7 Maintenance Tips

Summer is winding down fast here in Sudbury, Ontario.

In fact, we’ve already got several calls for furnace tune-ups - it’s not even September yet!

In Northern Ontario, homeowners know cold weather can come anytime - usually without much warning. One week you’re enjoying 25-degree weather. The next, there’s frost on the ground!

While we love the enthusiasm of you fall lovers, we have one important recommendation to make:

Before you prep your furnace for fall, it’s important to get your A/C back in shape.

Your air conditioner has worked hard all summer long. Those humid, 30+ days no doubt took a toll on your system.

Giving your A/C some proper fall maintenance can help,

1. Ensure it’s ready to start up again next year.
2. Improve cooling performance and efficiency, and
3. Extend your system’s lifespan.

While pushing off this chore until it’s necessary may seem easier, our experts say otherwise.

The better you care for your A/C system now, the less hassle it’ll give you later. It’ll last longer and provide better, more efficient cooling. So you can save on repairs and cooling bills!

Not sure where to get started? We’ve listed our top fall A/C maintenance tips below:

Listen In

One of the first things we do during any maintenance trip is to listen carefully to the HVAC system.

Our trained experts listen to and identify particular A/C sounds. In some cases, we can even tell you exactly what part needs attention based solely on the sound we hear!

We’ve listed a few of these common A/C sounds below:

Banging

A banging sound typically means there’s a problem with your compressor. As your A/C ages, it’s common for parts within your compressor to become loose.

Screeching

The common culprit for a screeching sound in your A/C is a malfunctioning/broken fan motor.

Buzzing

The reason for a buzzing air conditioner is a little harder to narrow down. Some of the potential issues could include:

• Unbalanced fan blades
• Faulty fan motor
• Dirty condenser coils
• Loose parts
• Obstruction
• Refrigerant leak

While most of the above issues are harmless, others pose a health risk. One of these is a refrigerant leak. If you suspect a dangerous leak, we encourage you to call your Campeau technicians!

Let It Breathe

This is something we recommend doing throughout the summer months. But we understand that it’s an easy one to forget!

Can you guess what it is?

Cleaning the grass, weeds and other debris in and around your air conditioner.

Your A/C needs space to “breathe” - pull in fresh air and let out indoor air. If weeds and other obstructions are in the way, performance and efficiency decline.

While you may not have leaves piling up around your A/C just yet, we’ve seen quite a few units buried in weeds and bushes.

We recommend clearing at least 1-3 feet on all sides of your outdoor unit.

Clean It Up

You’d be surprised how dirty your A/C gets throughout the summer! And, as we just mentioned, your unit needs space to breathe. If it’s clogged up, it won’t be able to operate properly.

Very few people like cleaning. But when we tell them it could save their HVAC system and wallets, they’re usually quick to change their minds.

To clean this system, be sure to disconnect it first. Hitting the kill switch is also a good idea!

While a thorough cleaning is best, a quick spray-down with the hose will also do. Make sure you get those big chunks off to prevent clogging!

Once done, wait till the unit dries off before plugging it back in.

Look Closely

HVAC system inspections are typically done by a professional. But if you’re in a pinch, you can at least get a visual inspection done on your own.

Note: You must power off the system before you begin - just as with the cleaning process.

When inspecting your system, here are some things to look for and note:

• Wobbling fan blades
• Loose screws
• Strange noises & smells
• Low refrigerant levels
• Excess moisture
• Dust
• Uneven airflow

If you notice any of these warning signs, call your HVAC team right away!

Check The Electrical

We recommend having one of our Campeau Heating techs come out to service the electrical in your HVAC.

An electrical issue is a little harder to diagnose and a lot more dangerous to investigate on your own.

Some of the things that can affect your HVAC electrical include:

• A recent power outage
• A faulty thermostat
• Malfunctioning capacitor
• Wrong fuse type
• Dislodged wiring

Keep in mind electrical work is dangerous. Our techs have the equipment and know-how to safely investigate and correct the issue.

Replace The Filter

You’ve heard us mention this one a lot. Changing your HVAC filters is always one of our top recommendations.

Here’s why:

You’ve just had a busy summer of tracking dirt indoors, opening and closing windows/doors and having your A/C on 24/7. Your dog has brought in countless treasures and has shed his entire winter coat at this point in the season. You may also have late summer allergies starting up.

Each of these points to the dire need for regular filter changes.

A clogged filter means your system works harder and longer - raising energy bills and lowering efficiency.

That's why we recommend changing your filter at least once every 90 days.

Schedule a Professional A/C Closing Appointment

Does the above list overwhelm you? If so, we highly recommend booking a professional A/C closing appointment.

Our air conditioning team in Sudbury, Ontario, is always ready to lend a hand! We’ll ensure your system is in good, working conditioning before shutting down.

Plus, we can do any repairs we find while there!

Blog: How A/C Maintenance Saves You Money and Protects Your Whole Family

Double Up and Get Your Furnace Prepped For Fall Too!

Want to save some time and money? Schedule your furnace tune-up at the same time!

We’ll get your A/C shut down for the season and your furnace prepped for the cold weather together.

Get In Touch

Looking for quality A/C care in Sudbury, Ontario? Contact our team!

Campeau Heating has been in business for 75 years, and we have the expertise to prove it!

Call us at (705) 560-2441 or contact us online today.

Hybrid Heat Pumps: All-In-One Sudbury Heating and Cooling 

Home heating is probably the furthest thing from your mind right now. After all, your AC is still running!

But there’s never been a better time to talk about the hybrid heat pump.

This system combines the heat pump with a furnace for unmatched energy efficiency.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one Sudbury heating and cooling solution, this is it!

Keep reading to discover how this system saves you energy and money.

What is a Hybrid Heat Pump?

You can think of a hybrid heat pump as a dual heating system. It uses both an electric heat pump and a furnace to operate.

The benefit of combining these units is your system alternates between them accordingly. It all depends on which is more efficient at the time!

This system intuitively knows when to use one unit over the other. The switch it makes depends on the season, necessary function and temperature.

The result?

Maximum energy efficiency and performance - year-round!

The Difference Between a Furnace, Heat Pump & Hybrid System

So, how does a hybrid system work?

To better understand how this system operates as a whole, you need to dive into how each unit works.

After all, they work together to create the optimal system! If one doesn’t work, the whole system will suffer.

Furnace

First up is the furnace - the most common type of home heating system.

A traditional furnace provides heat by burning a fuel source - propane, natural gas, oil, etc.

As the furnace produces heat, it warms the existing air in your home. These systems are typically forced air, so they warm your home via ductwork and vents.

Standard furnaces typically reach 80% efficiency, while high-efficiency furnaces reach about 90%.

This efficiency rate isn’t terrible, but it’s also not optimal.

Here’s why:

Furnaces generate heat with a flame - created when they burn a fuel source. This flame releases the byproduct carbon monoxide (CO), which, as you know, is unsafe to inhale. That's why all furnaces have a built-in venting system - to release these gasses outdoors.

The downside of this venting process is that as the CO releases outdoors, so does some of your heat. This wasted heat lowers your energy efficiency and ultimately reduces the unit's performance.

Heat Pump

The heat pump is quickly becoming the more energy-efficient solution for home heating. They also have the unique ability to both heat and cool!

Instead of generating heat, heat pumps actually transfer it.

You’ve heard us talk about the geothermal heat pump before. This system transfers thermal energy (heat) from the ground to your home.

At Campeau Heating, we stock the Napoleon Hybrid Heat Pump.

During the summer, this heat pump acts as an air conditioner. It draws heat from inside your home and moves it outside.

During the spring & fall, heat pumps draw heat from outside and move it indoors.

Heat pumps are especially known for their exceptional energy efficiency. Did you know that they are over 100% efficient?

This means they can transfer more energy than they consume!

The downside of these units is that, the colder it gets, the harder they have to work. This can lead to lower energy efficiency and higher energy bills on super cold days.

Hybrid System

A hybrid system combines the furnace with the heat pump - so you get the benefits of both systems in one!

These dual systems are great for Ontario homeowners.

As you know, Ontario experiences all four seasons to their full extent. Weather and temperature vary like crazy, especially up in Northern Ontario!

That’s why an efficient Sudbury heating and cooling system is so vital. It can make or break your budget!

A hybrid system selects the most efficient heating/cooling unit based on a series of factors. We mentioned these above, but they include things like temperature and season.

It then heats/cools your home as quickly and efficiently as possible. The goal is to ensure you don’t pay more than you need to for optimal home comfort.

Start Saving With a Hybrid Heat Pump

Did you know that 60% of the energy used in the average Canadian house is for home heating?

If you don’t yet own a home, you can imagine how quickly these costs can skyrocket.

If you do own a home, you’ve experienced those high energy bills firsthand!

At Campeau Heating, we always strive to provide our clients with HVAC products that,

a) Improve their home comfort, and

b) Increase their energy efficiency!

One without the other just isn’t realistic with our drastic Canadian temperatures.

You need a system that has your back - ensuring optimal home comfort without breaking the bank.

That’s where the hybrid heat pump comes in!

We like to think of this system as the future of Sudbury heating and cooling. It combines all the best features of both systems!

We’ve listed a few of these combined benefits below:

5 Benefits of a Hybrid Heat Pump

1. Lower Carbon Footprint
2. Efficient Heating
3. Energy-Cost Resilient
4. Easy Operation
5. Year-Round Home Comfort

Canada Greener Homes Grant

Apply Now

Save up to $5,600 on a new heat pump!

The Government of Canada is helping Canadians increase energy efficiency in their homes, for less.

Their goal is to help you save money and fight climate change.

Here's how this helps you!

GRANTS FROM $125 TO $5,000

To get back a portion of your costs for eligible home retrofits.

UP TO $600

As a maximum contribution toward the total costs of your pre and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations.

Learn more about the Canada Greener Homes Grant.

Book Your Installation With Campeau Heating

Get ready for a more affordable home heating season!

Our Campeau Heating team ensures you get the most out of your Sudbury heating and cooling system.

Call us today at 705-560-2441 or get a free, online quote!

Your 2023 Air Conditioner Buying Guide

Your air conditioner is your ride-or-die. When things heat up to 30+ degrees in the summer, it’s typically your only saving grace!

But what happens if your air conditioner breaks down? Or if you never had one in the first place?

Suddenly your dreams of a relaxing summer at home turn into a nightmare.

It’s time to invest in a new, reliable A/C that will see your family through the season!

A/C’s come in different types, sizes and efficiencies. It’s important to find the unit that will serve your home and family best!

If you're in the market for new air conditioning in Sudbury, Ontario, keep reading!

In this article, we dive into the crucial factors to consider when shopping for a new air conditioner.

What Are The Different Types of Home Air Conditioners?

The first factor to consider when A/C shopping is the type of unit you’re looking for.

Many homeowners come to us saying they want A/C and are then shocked by how many options there are to consider.

“Who knew there were so many different kinds!”

A/C isn’t a one size fits all system. There are numerous units to choose from!

It's important that you select the system that will provide your home with maximum comfort and efficiency.

We understand that the selection can seem overwhelming. After all, how do you ensure you choose the right one?

That’s where our team at Campeau Heating comes in!

Our cooling experts work with each homeowner to find the best system for them.

Below are some of the different options we have available:

Central Air Conditioning

Central units are our most popular choice. These traditional systems offer a whole-home cooling solution.

Homeowners often consider them the most luxurious choice because they offer,

• Simplicity,
• Consistency and
• Efficiency.

They also last about 15-20 years!

The main thing to consider when choosing central A/C is that you’ll need ductwork installed.

Ductwork is a system of airways connecting your A/C unit to the vents throughout your home.

The result? Easy, uniform cooling within each room!

Ductless Split Units

A ductless A/C works very similarly to a central system. But does not offer whole-home cooling.

Its main draw is that it serves as a zone cooling unit!

Zoned cooling treats different rooms in your home as zones. This allows you to control the temperature of each room separately.

Some of the popular areas that benefit from ductless cooling include:

• Apartments
• Garages
• Spare bedrooms
• Cottages

Are you looking for personalized comfort throughout your home? If so, ductless is the way to go! Plus, these systems can last up to 20 years.

Geothermal Heat Pump

If energy efficiency is your main concern, this could be the cooling system for you!

Geothermal heat pumps are one of the world’s greenest, most energy-efficient cooling solutions.

They use thermal energy from the earth’s surface to cool your home - saving 20-50% on cooling costs!

These systems also increase your home value and are environmentally friendly. You can count on them to last 20-25 years!

Blog Post: Read more about these 3 air conditioning units!

6 Factors To Think About While A/C Shopping

Now that you know the different types of A/Cs, it’s time to factor in some important considerations.

Our team typically covers these 6 points when helping homeowners select a new system. While they may seem inconsequential to you now, you’d be surprised how much of a difference they make down the road!

1. Unit Size

The capacity of the A/C must match the size of the room. That’s a given.

An A/C unit can't properly cool a room if it's too small for it. There would be too much space for the unit to handle.

If your unit is too big for the room, you’re risking it wearing down faster. It would need to cycle on and off quite frequently rather than at a steady pace. This causes stress to the system and can even prevent it from controlling the humidity in your home. There just wouldn’t be enough time in its quick on-and-off cycling.

The result would be inefficient and low-performance cooling - not your ideal solution!

That’s why we always send our techs out to ensure the size of the area we’re working with.

We’ll take different measurements depending on your system choice (i.e. central vs. ductless).

For a central A/C, we’ll need to find the square footage of your entire home. Then we'll multiply that by 20 to see how many BTUhs* it needs.

If we’re working with a ductless unit, we’ll only need the square footage of the particular zone.

Other factors that affect unit size:

• Ceiling height
• Windows
• Climate
• Home facade
• Insulation
• Heat-generating appliances
• Sun exposure

Investing in a properly sized unit maximizes cooling efficiency and performance.

*BTUh: British thermal units per hour.

2. Energy Efficiency

Another huge consideration for many homeowners today is energy efficiency.

With the cost of electricity and fuel, finding an efficient cooling solution is a must. Otherwise, you’re just racking up your energy bills!

At Campeau, we strive to bring you effective home cooling without breaking the bank.

When choosing an A/C system, we look at the SEER* score of each unit. The higher the score, the more energy-efficient the system is!

*SEER: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.

3. Features/Functions

Different brands offer different features to make your A/C more convenient, affordable and effective.

Some examples of A/C features:

• Energy-saving modes
• Performance data
• Quiet Mode
• Convenience features
• Programmable thermostats

Are there particular features you’re looking for? Discuss them with your Campeau Heating tech!

4. Noise Level

The comfort of your home is about more than just its temperature. For example, you won't feel very peaceful if your cooling system is constantly humming.

Are you looking for a super quiet system? If so, we recommend paying close attention to the decibel rating. The lower that rating, the quieter the unit will be!

You can also ask your tech for the quietest options.

5. Budget

Lastly, you’ll want to discuss your budget.

Installing brand new A/C can be a pricy endeavour. But according to our customers, it’s 100% worth it!

Let us know what you’re willing to spend! We’ll ensure your new system fits your price range.

Ask The Experts!

At Campeau, home cooling is what we do. And we do a lot of it! We’ve been in business since 1948 and have the experience to prove it.

We’ll help you find the best cooling solution for your home, lifestyle and budget.

Call us at (705) 560-2441 or request a free quote online!

Need Air Conditioning In Sudbury? Find The Right Unit Here!

This week’s heat wave in Sudbury had us all escaping indoors for some much-needed A/C!

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a heat warning for Sudbury on Monday. Since then, temperatures have risen to the high 30s with the humidex!

While they’ve let up a bit near the end of the week, this isn’t the last we’ll see of extreme heat and humidity this summer.

According to the official 2023 summer forecast, Ontario can expect a changeable summer. Hot periods will persist but will be graciously broken up by frequent cold fronts. Suffice it to say that more 30-degree weather is en route.

Is your A/C able to keep up with the demand?

For many old, reliable air conditioners, they just can’t take the heat!

Or maybe you've never had A/C before. Is this intense heat making you think twice about investing in home cooling?

 If you read our last blog, you’ll know A/C is the #1 way to protect against heat-related illness. Air conditioning helps fight off and control heat and humidity, which can heop protect you during even the most intense heat wave.

Whether you’re in the market for your first system or a replacement, our team at Campeau Heating is here to help!

3 Popular Types of Air Conditioning Units

We make choosing air conditioning in Sudbury, Ontario, easy and affordable.

Explore your options below!

Central

A traditional air conditioner typically refers to a central unit.

This type of A/C is a whole-home cooling solution. As long as it’s sized correctly, it is powerful enough to cool your entire house!

Central air conditioning is also considered quite luxurious - for more reasons than one.

Benefits of a Central A/C:

• Fast and effective cooling
• Enhanced energy efficiency
• Minimal noise
• Improved indoor air quality
• Increased comfort

These cooling systems are incredibly durable and long-lasting too. With the proper A/C maintenance, they can last 15-20 years!

How Does a Central A/C Work?

The system comprises two units - one indoor ventilator and one outdoor condenser. They work together to pull in warm air from within your home, convert it to cool air, and then return it.

To deliver this newly cooled air throughout the home, central A/C requires ductwork and vents.

Cooled air travels through the ductwork and releases through vents - effectively cooling each room!

Ductless

A ductless air conditioner work similarly to a central. But its goal is quite the opposite.

Instead of cooling the entire home, ductless systems provide zoned cooling.

Zoned cooling individually treats different rooms (zones) in your home. It allows you to control the temperature of each of these zones separately!

Many buildings and areas benefit hugely from this cooling system. A few examples include apartments, garages, spare bedrooms or cottages!

Let’s break each area down:

Apartments and spare bedrooms both have guests living in them. Having these areas controlled by personal preference ensures those occupants experience optimal comfort.

Garages and work sheds aren’t used as frequently. So they don’t need constant temperature control. But having the option to cool the space down during a big project can make a huge difference!

Lastly, cottages are the top choice for a ductless A/C system. They are especially popular in seasonal cottages, which are usually unoccupied for much of the year. Air conditioning is only needed here during cottage season (May - September). Cottages are typically smaller and only require cooling in specific rooms as well. This makes ductless A/Cs the more practical and energy-efficient choice!

Benefits of a Ductless A/C:

• Space saving
• Easy installation
• Increased energy efficiency
• Personalized comfort
• Great indoor air quality

How Does a Ductless A/C Work?

A ductless air conditioner works much the same way as a central system. Each unit has a fan and evaporator that connects to an outdoor compressor via refrigerant lines.

The air cools as it travels through the refrigerant lines to the compressor. Once cooled, it returns to the indoor unit to circulate the room.

There is no need to install ductwork or vents within your home. Just a few holes to fit the refrigerant lines through, and that's it!

Geothermal Heat Pump

Did you know? Geothermal is one of the world’s greenest, most energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions!

These systems draw thermal energy from the earth's surface to cool your home. In doing so, they can save 20-50% on cooling costs compared to conventional systems.

Benefits of a Heat Pump:

• Lower operating costs
• Quiet operation
• Low maintenance
• Increased home value
• Environmentally friendly

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

While it may seem odd to cool your home with the earth, we promise the process is 100% effective!

Outdoor temperatures vary based on season and time of day. But underground temperatures (a few feet below the surface) remain consistent.

Your heat pump can convert this thermal energy into efficient cooling using either,

a) A closed-loop system or

b) An open-loop system.

Another cool thing about geothermal systems is that they can provide cooling and heating! They even do so in a variety of forms!

Whether you want a forced air, radiant or hot water heating system, your geothermal heat pump can do it!

Learn more about how a geothermal heat pump works.

Choosing The Right A/C Unit For Your Home

Selecting the right A/C for your home can be daunting.

With so many options available, how do you know which is best for your home, budget and lifestyle?

At Campeau Heating, our cooling experts are always ready to help you find the best A/C.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an A/C:

• Budget
• Energy efficiency standards
• Home size
• Noise level
• Maintenance Needs
• Available space
• Desired features

These factors help guide the decision-making process. This ensures you choose the right system for your home.

Cool Down This Summer With Campeau Heating

Are you looking for reliable air conditioning in Sudbury? You’ve found it!

At Campeau Heating, we service homes, cottages and businesses with the best cooling products!

Ready to cool down? Give us a call!

Reach our office at (705) 560-2441 or contact us online.

How to Protect Indoor Air Quality in The Wake of Summer Heat

Summer has arrived once again, and we're here for it!

But with summer heat comes a myriad of unpleasant air quality issues. Some we already saw before summer even hit!

Earlier this month, much of Ontario smelled like a giant bonfire. This was, of course, due to wildfires burning across the county. Smoke from out West, Quebec and Northern Ontario became wind-borne - lowering air quality throughout Ontario.

In fact, at one point during this event, Toronto’s air quality ranked among the world’s worst! By that same evening, the air quality index of Ottawa rose to above level 10 (very high risk)!

Smoke exposure causes eye irritation, coughing and respiratory difficulties. No wonder much of the province was highly encouraged to limit their exposure as much as possible.

After the spring we’ve had, with early heat waves and poor air quality, who knows what could happen next!

Thankfully, the smoke continues to dissipate today. But the risk of coming heat waves looms.

Many homeowners have come to us with the same question, “how do I protect my indoor air quality this summer?”

At the end of this article, we explore 4 products to keep your home air quality clean, safe and comfortable.

But first, let’s look at some common causes of poor indoor air quality during the summer months.

Common Causes for Poor Indoor Air Quality In Summer

It’s commonly assumed that air quality is worse in the summer than in the winter. But while we can confirm that air quality worsens in the summer, we cannot say that it is worse in one season vs. another.

All seasons in Canada have their own air quality risks. The important thing is to understand what those risks are so that you can mitigate the issue.

Besides the risk of wildfires, there are three other factors to consider.

Let’s explore them below:

Heat

Heat waves are something many Ontario residents are familiar with.

One second you’re enjoying a cool breeze at 23 degrees Celcius. The next, you’re thrown into 30 degrees weather with little to no wind!

These heat waves are typically short-lived. But wow, do they ever hit hard!

If you live in Sudbury, Ontario, you’re feeling the impact of a heat wave right now!

Temperatures have risen to 30 degrees or higher, and they’re not lowering until at least Monday.

Sudbury’s air quality index has already hit level 4 (moderate risk) in the last couple of days.

How does high heat affect air quality?

Extreme heat and stagnant air increase ozone and particulate pollution. It also can dry out the soil, increasing the risk of wildfires (hence our current dilemma in much of Canada).

Warmer temperatures can also cause early blooming and prolonged pollen production.

And lastly, warm temperatures paired with high moisture create the perfect environment for mould to thrive. This is humidity!

Humidity

High humidity refers to anything over 50%.

Currently, in Sudbury, Ontario, humidity is around 30-40%, which is fine. But have you noticed how things become quite muggy before a summer thunderstorm? 

That's a sign of high humidity!

Here's another:

Have you ever left your windows open and noticed your floors getting sticky? This is a direct result of the heavy moisture in the air.

If you read our last blog, you know all about the effects of high humidity. But if you missed it, here’s a quick recap!

Humidity is crucial for your internal air conditioning system - thermoregulation. This is the process your body goes through to maintain a healthy core body temperature.

If your body becomes too hot, thermoregulation immediately begins. Vasodilation or sweating are two tools your body uses to cool down.

Vasodilation occurs when your blood vessels widen. This widening increases blood flow to cooler areas of your skin. This moves the heat away from your internal core so that it does not overheat.

As that heat reaches your skin, sweat glands release sweat. As sweat releases, it evaporates from your skin - lowering your body temperature.

But there’s a catch.

This process of thermoregulation doesn’t work well if your environment is very humid. Your sweat cannot evaporate when the air is full of moisture. This makes your body vulnerable!

Health Effects of High Humidity:

• Fatigue,
• Muscle Cramping,
• Fainting,
• Dehydration, etc.

Humidity is also a breeding ground for dust mites, bacterial growth and allergens!

Allergens

Common allergens in your home during summer include dust mites, pet dander and pollen.

These three allergens thrive in the summer months due to high heat and moisture. If you don’t take the necessary precautions, they are likely to grow at an exponential rate!

In the past week, Sudbury’s allergy outlook stated a very high pollen count. 

While you may not be sensitive to these pollens, others in your family might be. This risk is why it’s so important to fend off these harmful air pollutants.

4 Products To Protect Your Home Air Quality

There are many ways to improve and protect your indoor air quality. Our indoor air quality experts have listed their top suggestions below:

Install Air Conditioning

Did you know that A/C is the number one way to protect against heat-related illness and death (CDC)?

Our last article discussed how air conditioning can help keep you safe during a heat wave. Wow, did we cover a lot of material there!

Interested in learning more about the benefits of air conditioning this summer? We encourage you to check out that article!

If you’re in the market for the cliff notes of the story, here are the top benefits of A/C we discussed:

• Helps maintain a healthy core body temperature.
• Reduces and controls humidity.
• Reduces the risk of dehydration and other heat-related health issues.
• Improves sleep.
• Improves indoor air quality.

At Campeau Heating, we offer a variety of air conditioning systems! Choose from our ductless, central, high velocity and geothermal lines.

Increase Air Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is vital for clean, healthy air. It is the process of exchanging air into and out of your home.

Whole home ventilators (ERVs or HRVs) are a great way to improve the air quality throughout your home.

Ventilation systems improve your indoor air quality by,

a) Removing pollutants, and

b) Bringing in fresh, filtered air from outside.

A Heat or Energy Recovery Ventilator: Which is More Effective?

Install an Air Purification/Filtration System

Filtering and purifying your indoor air with the right equipment is essential.

At Campeau Heating, we supply a variety of air-cleaning products, from UV to HEPA! Both of these systems have the power to remove and/or destroy harmful particles from your indoor air.

A UV purification system kills viruses, bacteria, protozoa, etc.

It can even kill mould spores!

A HEPA filter can remove dust, mould, bacteria and pollen. If there’s an airborne particle about 0.3 microns big floating around, you can count on your HEPA filter to catch it!

Improve Humidity Control

As mentioned above, humidity is one of the leading causes of poor air quality during the summer. And it isn’t just harmful to you! It can also damage furniture, flooring and other structural elements in your house. 

This is why humidity control is so vital.

Thankfully, there’s a reliable system that makes humidity control fast and simple!

A whole-home dehumidifier helps maintain a healthy humidity level in your home 24/7.

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality With Campeau Heating

At Campeau Heating, we care about your indoor air quality. Our team keeps your home as safe and comfortable as possible!

Not sure where to begin with your air quality improvement this summer?

Contact our experts at (705) 560-2441! We can help you choose the right products for your home, lifestyle and budget.

How Air Conditioning Can Help Keep You Safe During a Heat Wave

Air conditioning in Sudbury, Ontario, is more important than ever!

What was once considered a luxury is now necessary for most homes in Ontario.

Here’s why:

Temperatures in Ontario are unpredictable.

One day, you’re enjoying a beautiful cool breeze. The next, you’re escaping indoors to avoid a heat wave!

Summer temperatures can reach 30 degrees C, and humidity levels are no better - making it feel even hotter!

The Farmers’ Almanac actually released its forecast for summer 2023 recently. Apparently, we can expect this summer to be even warmer and dryer than typical years.

What does this mean for you?

Are there ways to lessen the danger and protect your health as the summer heat approaches?

Keep reading to find out!

The Dangers of Heat For Your Health

We’ve all heard the classic lines "wear sunscreen" or "throw a hat on" a thousand times.

With the danger of exposure to harmful UV rays, this isn’t anything new.

But what about the dangers associated with high heat?

Sunscreen and ballcaps only go so far in protecting your health.

The next step is to find a solution for high heat and humidity.

How dangerous can high summer heat be?

In severe cases, heat can be deadly.

According to Statistics Canada, 595 people died in BC due to one of the longest and hottest heat waves in Canadian history. This happened in 2021 - only two years ago!

Eleven years before that (2010), a heat wave in Quebec caused 280 deaths.

While these statistics are Canadian-based, not Ontario, we can’t deny how close to home they hit.

In our books, it's too close.

And it’s not just the fatal cases we need to worry about!

Exposure to high heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

There is also a risk of chronic conditions flaring. 

This typically only occurs when high temperatures of 32 degrees C or higher last two or more days. According to Aaron Bernstein of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, flare-ups can commonly occur in people who suffer from existing conditions like

• Migraines,
• Arthritis,
• Asthma,
• Cardiovascular disease, etc.

To sum it up, our bodies are not designed to handle high heat for long periods. According to Bernstein, “We’re warm-blooded, and our whole body is designed to operate within a narrow range of temperatures.”

If our body gets too hot, it can’t function properly. Our heart, lungs, brain and kidneys can malfunction or slow down. This is a huge risk for people with existing organ problems.

So, how can you protect yourself and your family from these health risks?

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid the outdoors during the hottest parts of the day.
• Wear sunscreen.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing.
• Take cool showers.
• Check your local news or weather app for health and safety updates.

Another tip is to install whole home air conditioning!

Is Air Conditioning The Solution?

If you don’t currently have an air conditioning system installed, we highly recommend it.

According to the CDC, A/C is the number one way to protect against heat-related illness and death.

Below are some of the top health benefits of installing A/C:

Lower Your Core Body Temperature

The main purpose of an air conditioner is to cool and regulate the temperature of a given space, such as your home.

Once your home gets too warm, the A/C kicks on and begins removing excess heat and moisture.

The result is a temperature-controlled space that is safe and comfortable.

Did you know your body has a similar process when it gets too hot? It basically has a built-in air conditioning system called thermoregulation.

Thermoregulation occurs when your internal temperature (core body temperature) changes. If it becomes too hot, your body uses internal mechanisms to cool it down. These include sweating and vasodilation.

As you sweat, the moisture from your body evaporates off your skin, lowering your body temperature. But this process is quite challenging when the air is too humid for evaporation to occur.

That’s where air conditioning comes in to save the day!

A/C removes the excess moisture from your air, allowing your body to sweat properly. It also helps cool your environment - making it easier for your body to regulate its core temperature.

Reduce Humidity

High humidity is dangerous in your home. As mentioned above, it can reduce your body’s ability to cool naturally. But that’s not all. It can also cause fatigue, muscle cramping, fainting, dehydration, etc.

Thankfully, A/Cs are powerful multitaskers!

The system as a whole cools the home down. But, at the same time, the refrigerant within the system removes humidity from your air.

Here’s how that works:

A/Cs pull warm indoor air into the vents, through the return ducts and over the evaporator coil. The refrigerant within the coil absorbs the heat, which is then expelled into the condenser coil.

Then, as the now-cooled refrigerant returns to the evaporator coil, more warm air meets it. This forms condensation.

This condensation is the moisture in your home.

Once the moisture drips into the condensate pan, it flows into a drain pipe outdoors.

Voila - humidity control!

Reduce the Risk of Dehydration

As your body undergoes thermoregulation, you can lose a lot of water. And, as you know, your body needs water to function. Without it, mental and physical performance can deteriorate.

Air conditioning reduces the body’s need to sweat, thus helping prevent dehydration.

Get Better Sleep

Trying to sleep in a hot environment is challenging, uncomfortable and dangerous.

While you’re trying to sleep in this heat, your body works to try and regulate its internal temperature. This means a lot of sweat, discomfort and potential dehydration.

Air conditioning creates a cool environment that’s ideal for optimal rest. This makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep!

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Investing in indoor air quality is vital to protecting your health.

Do you have underlying health conditions, such as asthma or allergies? If so, A/C is especially crucial.

Air conditioning circulates and filters your indoor air - removing pollutants and allergens!

Contact Campeau Heating in Sudbury, Ontario

Looking for quality air conditioning in Sudbury, Ontario? Contact our A/C experts at Campeau Heating!

We’ll help you find the right air conditioner for your home, lifestyle and budget.

Call today at 705-560-2441 or shop online!

The Outdoor Products You Need For The Perfect Summer

Summer is (finally) right around the corner!

After a long winter and a confusing spring, we’re all excited to officially dive into warmer weather.

There’s so much to look forward to - from family barbecues to bonfires,

Is your backyard equipped with all the fundamental summer amenities?

At Campeau Heating, we know how to make the most of summer. We want to help make this your best summer yet!

With the right outdoor products, you can create the perfect backyard oasis.

The best part?

All these summer products are actually made for all-season use! So you can enjoy them throughout the whole year.

Let’s get started!

Napoleon Outdoor Barbeques: Master The Grill

If you don’t have one yet, you NEED a barbecue in your life. And we’re not just saying that because we stock one of the best grill brands ever!

Barbecuing is the perfect way to,

1. Enjoy a home-cooked meal, and

2. Take advantage of the short-lived summer weather!

In fact, in July 2019, 62% of consumers were more likely to prepare their summer meals on the grill 1-3 times a week!

And why not? Who doesn’t love the smell of the grill on a hot summer day?

5 Reasons You Need a Barbeque This Summer:

1. They expand your at-home menu!

There are endless meal options with an outdoor grill. From fish to veggies or burgers to kabobs, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy!

2. They help you save money!

We all know the pain of a steakhouse bill. But with an at-home steakhouse grill, everything changes! You can cook up your favourite rare-cut steak right from your own backyard!

3. They turn mealtime into social time!

If you’re like most Canadians, summer is your top socializing season.

With a barbecue, you can spend less time cooking alone inside and more time socializing with your friends outside!

4. You can use them year-round - no matter the weather!

As long as you install your barbecue under a shelter (i.e. BBQ shelter), you can use it whenever you’d like - rain or shine!

5. They truly complete your backyard!

For most homeowners, especially those in rural areas, barbecues are a household staple. And with so many options, you choose the right BBQ for your budget, style and cooking preferences!

At Campeau Heating, our Napoleon grills offer advanced grilling features and engineered performance.

OUR NAPOLEON BBQ SERIES:

• Gas Grills

• Charcoal Grills

• Built-In Gas Grills

• Portable Grills

Not sure which will suit your patio space and cooking preferences best? Give our team a call!

Napoleon & Heat and Glo Outdoor Fireplaces: Extend Your Patio Season

We’ve talked about extending your patio season with an outdoor fireplace before. But if you’ve missed those articles or need more convincing, keep reading!

Outdoor fireplaces have been a popular patio addition for years.

These gorgeous backyard amenities create the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities!

They add a warm, cosy ambience to your living space - perfect for outdoor dinner parties or bonfires. And we’re not just talking metaphorically!

Our outdoor fireplaces actually exude warmth!

They also look incredible!

Still not convinced?

5 Reasons You Need an Outdoor Fireplace

1. They add a focal point for your outdoor living space.

If you’re looking to add the perfect wow factor to your patio, this is it!

Fireplaces have always been a main focal point of a home. Adding one outside means transferring that same light, warmth and charm outdoors!

2. They can improve the visual appeal of your outdoor patio.

With so many style options, you can choose the outdoor fireplace that best suits your patio. Whether you’re looking for modern, traditional, rustic or eclectic, we have the perfect fit.

You can even choose the most practical fuel for your home - wood-burning or gas!

3. They produce actual heat - so you can use them year-round!

Although they’re gorgeous, outdoor fireplaces aren’t just for looks. They’re for warmth too!

This means you can continue enjoying the great outdoors all year round - regardless of whether it’s warm out or not!

4. They extend your entertainment space.

Another great reason to buy an outdoor fireplace is to extend your hosting space.

Designing a functional backyard living space adds a whole new dimension to your home.

Big event coming up?

With an outdoor fireplace, your guests aren't limited to crowding into your home. You can extend your event space to include your patio!

5. They can increase your home value.

Looking for a worthy spring project? Your patio is the perfect place to start!

There is incredible value in upgrading your outdoor living space. Whether you’re renovating for personal use or to sell!

Not only will it increase your own comfort and enjoyment, but can also increase your home value by 20% (ASLA).

Kohler Generators: Power Your Whole Home

If you haven’t installed a whole-home backup generator, now is the perfect time!

While these systems aren’t technically meant to add charm to your patio, they are invaluable to your home.

Whole-home Kohler generators mean you never have to worry about losing power again!

As long as you invest in the correct amperage, this generator can power:

• Indoor and outdoor lighting
• Home heating systems (including outdoor fireplaces if needed)
• Air conditioning systems
• Kitchen appliances (refrigerators, freezers, ovens etc.)
• Sump pumps
• Hot water heaters
• And more!

With summer storms on the way, it’s always a good idea to have a backup power system in place.

Outdoor power equipment is also built to withstand harsh weather, including heavy snow!

So whatever seasonal storm you face, your home’s power will never be at risk.

Your Best Summer Yet With Campeau Heating

We’re here to ensure you have the best summer yet! Ready to upgrade your backyard experience?

Give our Campeau Heating team a call today!

You can reach our office at (705) 560-2441 or contact us online!