Furnace, heat pump and central air service in Peterborough

Peterborough's weather leans wet rather than snowy. Trent University's climate station records about 882 mm of precipitation a year, and only roughly 15% of it falls as snow, with most months bringing somewhere between 60 and 90 mm. That steady moisture shapes the service calls more than people expect.

What does a damp climate mean for heating and cooling?

Rain and melt find their way to the low spots around a house. A high-efficiency furnace makes its own water too, and drains it through a small condensate line and pump. When that line clogs or the pump stops, the furnace may shut off on purpose. It looks alarming, but it is often a modest repair.

In summer, the same humidity keeps central air working hard. An air conditioner that runs but no longer cools, leaves water by the indoor coil, or trips its breaker usually has one of a short list of causes. Work is performed by 313A refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics. See air conditioner repair.

Do I need a permit to change anything outside my house?

Possibly, if you live in The Avenues. The Avenues and Neighbourhood Heritage Conservation District covers 348 properties, and the city has another 155 heritage properties designated one by one. Owners in the district need a heritage permit before altering their property.

For heating and cooling, that matters mostly at the outside walls. A new side-wall vent for a high-efficiency furnace, an outdoor condenser for central air, or a heat pump unit beside the house can all count as visible changes. The calm approach is to sort out where everything will go, then check with the city before the equipment is ordered. It adds a step, not a problem.

What fits an older Peterborough house best?

Older houses often have little room for new ductwork. Where central air would mean opening walls, a ductless system can cool, and with a heat pump also heat, individual rooms through small lines run outside the house. Where the ducts are sound, central air or a heat pump paired with a furnace may suit better. See air conditioning installation for how the choice is made.

What can you check before calling?

• Confirm the thermostat has power and is set to the right mode.
• Check the breaker for the furnace or outdoor unit, and reset it only once.
• Look for water around the furnace or the indoor coil.
• Replace a clogged filter if you have a spare.

If the breaker trips again, leave it off and wait for the visit. If you smell gas or a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, go outside first and call from there.

How does a visit work?

The technician listens, tests the system, and explains what was found. You get a written price to approve before anything is replaced. If it is cooling that has stopped, the air conditioner guide covers what to do in the meantime. When you are ready, request a quote.

Communities we serve

• Westmount
• Greenhill
• Ashburnham
• Claraday
• Byersville
• Auburn Mills
• Coldsprings
• Downers Corners
• Donwood
• Nassau