Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common heating questions from ROMA Heating Division's experts. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us directly.
General Heating Questions
What should I do if my furnace stops working?
First, check your thermostat settings and ensure it's set to heat mode. Check your circuit breaker and replace the air filter if it's dirty. If these steps don't resolve the issue, call our emergency line at 778-909-5731 for immediate assistance.
How often should I service my heating system?
We recommend annual maintenance for all heating systems, ideally before the heating season begins in fall. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends your system's lifespan.
What's the difference between a furnace and a boiler?
A furnace heats air and distributes it through ducts, while a boiler heats water and distributes heat through radiators or radiant floor systems. Both are effective heating methods with different installation and maintenance requirements.
How long do heating systems typically last?
Gas furnaces typically last 15-20 years, boilers can last 15-30 years, and heat pumps usually last 10-15 years. Proper maintenance can extend these lifespans significantly.
What size heating system do I need for my home?
Heating system sizing depends on your home's square footage, insulation, ceiling height, windows, and local climate. Our technicians perform detailed load calculations to determine the right size for optimal efficiency and comfort.
Furnace Questions
Why is my furnace making strange noises?
Different noises indicate different issues: rattling may suggest loose components, squealing could indicate belt problems, and banging might signal ignition issues. Any unusual noises warrant professional inspection.
How often should I change my furnace filter?
Standard 1-inch filters should be changed monthly during heating season. Thicker filters (4-5 inches) can last 3-6 months. Check monthly and replace when dirty to maintain efficiency and air quality.
Why is my furnace short cycling?
Short cycling (frequent on/off cycles) can be caused by dirty filters, thermostat issues, oversized equipment, or airflow problems. This reduces efficiency and increases wear - professional diagnosis is recommended.
What are the signs I need a new furnace?
Consider replacement if your furnace is over 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, has rising energy bills, provides uneven heating, or makes excessive noise. We offer free replacement consultations.
Can I install a furnace myself?
No, furnace installation requires licensed professionals due to gas connections, electrical work, and safety requirements. DIY installation is dangerous and violates local codes and manufacturer warranties.
Boiler Questions
Why is my boiler leaking water?
Boiler leaks can stem from pressure relief valves, pipe connections, or internal components. Any leak requires immediate professional attention to prevent damage and ensure safe operation.
What's the ideal boiler pressure?
Most residential boilers operate between 12-15 PSI when cold and 18-25 PSI when hot. Check your boiler's manual for specific requirements, and call us if pressure is consistently outside normal ranges.
How do I bleed air from my radiators?
Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve at the top of each radiator until water flows steadily, then close. Start with radiators farthest from the boiler. If you're uncomfortable doing this, we can help.
Why are some radiators cold while others are hot?
This usually indicates air in the system, sludge buildup, or balancing issues. Professional system balancing and maintenance can resolve uneven heating problems.
What maintenance does my boiler need?
Annual professional maintenance should include cleaning, inspection of all components, pressure testing, and efficiency checks. We also recommend monthly visual inspections for leaks or unusual sounds.
Heat Pump Questions
Do heat pumps work in Vancouver winters?
Yes! Modern heat pumps are designed for Canadian climates and work efficiently even in Vancouver's winter temperatures. Many models operate effectively down to -25°C or lower.
What's the difference between air-source and ground-source heat pumps?
Air-source heat pumps extract heat from outdoor air, while ground-source (geothermal) systems use stable ground temperatures. Ground-source systems are more efficient but have higher installation costs.
Why is my heat pump covered in ice?
Light frost is normal, but heavy ice buildup indicates a problem. Heat pumps have defrost cycles to remove ice. If ice persists or your system isn't heating properly, call for service.
How much can I save with a heat pump?
Heat pumps can reduce heating costs by 30-50% compared to electric baseboard heating and 10-30% compared to gas furnaces, depending on your home and local utility rates.
Do I need backup heating with a heat pump?
Most heat pump installations include backup heating (usually electric) for extremely cold days. In Vancouver's mild climate, backup heating is rarely needed but provides peace of mind.
Emergency & Repair Questions
What constitutes a heating emergency?
Heating emergencies include complete system failure, gas leaks, carbon monoxide alarms, or any safety concerns. We provide 24/7 emergency service for these situations.
How quickly can you respond to emergencies?
We typically respond to emergency calls within 30 minutes and offer same-day service when possible. Our technicians carry common parts for faster repairs.
What should I do while waiting for emergency service?
Keep warm with blankets and layers, close off unused rooms to conserve heat, and never use ovens, BBQs, or camping heaters indoors. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately.
Do you charge extra for emergency calls?
Emergency service calls have additional fees for after-hours, weekend, and holiday service. We provide transparent pricing upfront with no hidden charges.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards. We also offer financing options for larger repairs and installations through approved partners.
Cost & Pricing Questions
How much does furnace repair typically cost?
Repair costs vary by issue complexity, from $150-300 for minor repairs to $800-1500 for major component replacement. We provide upfront pricing before any work begins.
What does a new furnace installation cost?
New furnace installations typically range from $3,000-8,000 depending on size, efficiency, and installation complexity. We offer free in-home consultations and quotes.
Are there rebates available for new heating systems?
Yes! BC Hydro, FortisBC, and federal programs offer rebates for high-efficiency systems. We help customers navigate available incentives and handle paperwork.
Do you offer financing options?
We partner with financing companies to offer flexible payment plans for installations and major repairs. Ask about our current financing promotions.
Is annual maintenance worth the cost?
Annual maintenance costs $150-250 but prevents costly breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends equipment life. It typically pays for itself in energy savings.
Installation Questions
How long does furnace installation take?
Most furnace installations take 4-8 hours for straightforward replacements. Complex installations or ductwork modifications may require 1-2 days.
Do I need permits for heating system installation?
Yes, most heating installations require permits. We handle all permit applications and inspections as part of our installation service.
Can you install heating systems in older homes?
Yes, we specialize in retrofitting heating systems in older Vancouver homes. We assess existing infrastructure and recommend appropriate solutions.
What preparation is needed before installation?
Clear access to the installation area, ensure someone is home during installation, and discuss any specific requirements with our team beforehand.
Do you remove old equipment?
Yes, we remove and properly dispose of old heating equipment as part of our installation service, following all environmental regulations.
Efficiency & Energy Questions
What is AFUE rating and why does it matter?
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) measures how efficiently a furnace converts fuel to heat. Higher ratings (90%+ for high-efficiency units) mean lower operating costs.
How can I improve my heating system's efficiency?
Regular maintenance, proper air filtration, programmable thermostats, adequate insulation, and sealing air leaks all improve efficiency. We offer energy audits to identify improvements.
Should I upgrade to a high-efficiency system?
High-efficiency systems cost more upfront but provide significant long-term savings. We calculate payback periods based on your usage and local utility rates.
What temperature should I set my thermostat?
For comfort and efficiency, set your thermostat to 20°C (68°F) when home and 16-18°C (60-65°F) when away or sleeping. Programmable thermostats automate these adjustments.
Do ductless systems save energy?
Yes, ductless mini-split systems eliminate duct losses and allow zone control, potentially saving 20-30% on heating costs compared to traditional ducted systems.
Still Have Questions?
Our heating experts are here to help. Get personalized answers to your specific questions.