Heating Services
Budget Heating installs, repairs, and maintains the full range of residential and commercial heating systems across the Lower Mainland. If you need a high-efficiency Viessmann combi boiler, a new furnace, in-floor radiant heating, or a radiant boiler system, our licensed gas fitters and heating technicians deliver expert workmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace a 20 or 25 year old furnace?
Age alone isn't the deciding factor. What matters is the heat exchanger, how often it's needing repairs, and whether parts are still available. A furnace that age is usually far less efficient than a new high-efficiency gas furnace or a heat pump, and FortisBC and CleanBC rebate programs can make the switch easier, so it's worth getting it checked before the first cold snap. We'll give you a written estimate and tell you honestly whether a repair still makes sense. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
How long does a furnace last?
Most gas furnaces last around 15 to 20 years, and some go longer with yearly service. In the Lower Mainland they run long, mild, damp seasons rather than short hard winters, so filter changes and annual maintenance make a real difference. If yours is in that age range and needing repairs more often, start planning a replacement before it fails in January. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
What is the most common problem with furnaces?
The most common one is simple: a clogged filter that chokes airflow and makes the furnace overheat and shut itself off. After that we see dirty flame sensors, failed ignitors, thermostat problems, and on high-efficiency furnaces a blocked condensate drain. Check the filter and the thermostat batteries first, and if it still won't run, call us. Same-day service available. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
What are the most expensive furnace repairs, and when is it better to replace?
The big ones are a cracked heat exchanger, a failed control board, and the blower or inducer motor. A cracked heat exchanger can let combustion gases into the air, so on an older furnace it usually means replacement rather than repair. If the repair is major and the furnace is getting on in years, it often makes more sense to put that money toward a new furnace or a heat pump. We'll show you what we found and give you both options. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
How do I light the pilot light on my furnace?
Most furnaces built in the last few decades don't have a standing pilot. They use electronic ignition, so there's nothing to light, and a no-heat problem is usually the ignitor, flame sensor or a safety switch. If you have an older furnace with a pilot, follow the lighting instructions on the label inside the furnace door exactly, and stop if it won't stay lit. If you smell gas, don't touch anything electrical; get outside and call FortisBC's emergency line at 1-800-663-9911. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
When is the best time of year to replace a furnace?
Late spring through summer is easiest, because you can plan, compare options and book an install date before the fall rush. Waiting until it fails in a cold snap means you choose under pressure. Rebate programs from FortisBC and CleanBC change over time, so check what's current when you start planning. We're a FortisBC Trade Ally and can walk you through it. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
What affects the cost of replacing a furnace?
The main factors are the size your home actually needs (based on a proper heat loss calculation, not just square footage), the efficiency level, and whether the venting, gas line or ductwork needs changes. Older North Shore and Vancouver homes often need venting updates when going from a chimney-vented furnace to a high-efficiency unit. Permits, access to the furnace room and any rebates you qualify for also change the total. We give a written estimate after looking at the house. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.
Who should I call for furnace repair in North Vancouver?
Pick a company that's licensed for gas work, insured, local, and willing to explain what it found before doing the work. Budget Heating & Plumbing Services is based in North Vancouver and repairs and replaces furnaces across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. We're licensed, bonded and insured, BBB A+ rated, and a FortisBC Trade Ally. Same-day service available and 24/7 emergency service available when you have no heat. Call 604-343-1985 or book online.