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As the temperatures begin to drop across Chatham-Kent, now is the time to make sure your home heating system is ready. Scheduling professional furnace maintenance ensures your home stays warm, safe, and energy efficient all winter long.

Postma Heating & Cooling helps homeowners across Chatham-Kent prepare their HVAC systems for the colder months. Regular maintenance is a simple but important step to protect your comfort and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Why Furnace Maintenance Is Important

Winters in Chatham-Kent can be long and harsh. A reliable furnace is essential, and keeping it in top condition requires annual maintenance. Some of the main benefits of scheduling furnace maintenance include:

• Preventing breakdowns during the coldest months

• Improving energy efficiency and lowering utility bills

• Extending the lifespan of your furnace

• Reducing safety risks like gas or carbon monoxide leaks

• Maintaining consistent heat throughout your home

Routine maintenance helps you stay ahead of issues before they turn into costly repairs.

What Furnace Maintenance Looks Like

When a certified technician visits your home, the process is thorough and hands-on. The goal is to identify and address any issues that could lead to reduced efficiency, poor air quality, or system failure.

A typical furnace tune-up includes cleaning the burners, inspecting the heat exchanger, checking for gas or carbon monoxide leaks, testing system controls, and verifying airflow. If you want to understand what a proper maintenance checklist looks like, the ENERGY STAR Maintenance Checklist is a great place to start.

For homeowners interested in ongoing care, service plans can provide peace of mind with routine inspections and repair discounts. If you’re wondering whether a maintenance plan is worth it, this guide from Trane breaks down the pros and cons.

Why Homeowners in Chatham-Kent Choose Postma

Postma Heating & Cooling has been serving the Chatham-Kent region for over 30 years. As a family-owned business, the team understands the needs of local homeowners and is committed to providing reliable, honest service.

The technicians are fully certified and trained to handle all types of HVAC systems. Postma offers flexible scheduling, transparent pricing, and emergency service when needed. Their reputation is built on professionalism and long-term customer trust.

Schedule Your Furnace Maintenance Today

The best time to schedule your furnace maintenance in Chatham-Kent is before the cold weather arrives. A pre-season tune-up helps you avoid last-minute issues and ensures your home stays warm all winter long.

Call (519) 354-9491
Visit www.postma.ca

22132 Charing Cross Road, Chatham-Kent, ON N7M 5J7

Serving Sarnia, Windsor, Chatham-Kent, St. Thomas and the surrounding communities

Is your bathroom outdated or no longer functional? At Postma, we specialize in professional bathroom renovations, transforming worn-out spaces into clean, modern, and efficient retreats for homeowners across Chatham-Kent.

Whether you’re focused on improving daily comfort, correcting old plumbing issues, or preparing to sell your home, Postma delivers high-quality results with long-lasting value.

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Why Renovate Your Bathroom?

A bathroom renovation is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make and it offers both immediate comfort and long-term return.

According to REALTOR.ca, bathroom remodels are one of the highest-return projects homeowners can undertake, especially before selling. Even if you’re not moving, a modern, energy-efficient bathroom can improve your day-to-day life dramatically.

Looking for design inspiration? Explore these bathroom remodeling ideas from Better Homes & Gardens. From smart layouts to beautiful tile selections, there’s no shortage of creative options.

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Full-Service Bathroom Renovations in Chatham-Kent

As a trusted bathroom renovation specialist in Chatham-Kent, we offer complete bathroom renovation services tailored to your goals, style, and budget.

Our renovation services include:

• Custom vanities and built-in cabinetry

• Walk-in showers and bathtubs

• Waterproof flooring and tiling

• Energy-efficient lighting and fans

• Layout reconfiguration

• Accessibility upgrades

We work with you from the initial design consultation through to the final walkthrough, ensuring the space is both beautiful and practical.

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Licensed Plumbing Services Near You

Behind every successful bathroom renovation is reliable plumbing. That’s why Postma offers licensed plumbing services for homeowners searching for plumbing services near me in Chatham-Kent, ensuring everything functions flawlessly behind the scenes.

Our plumbing services include:

• Fixture installation (toilets, sinks, faucets, tubs)

• Drainage and pipe upgrades

• Leak detection and repair

• Water-efficient plumbing system installations

• Hot water and pressure optimization

Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or just searching for plumbing help in Chatham-Kent, Postma is ready to help with certified professionals and fast, reliable service.

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Why Choose Postma?

Chatham-Kent homeowners choose Postma because we combine expert workmanship with personalized service. We don’t believe in shortcuts, only in quality that lasts.

Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Local and family-operated

• Fully licensed and insured team

• Transparent pricing and no hidden fees

• Coordinated renovation + plumbing service

• On-time project delivery and full cleanup

We take pride in creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful and we back our work with integrity and accountability.

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Ready to Renovate?

If you’re ready to enhance your home with a custom bathroom renovation, Postma is your go-to team in Chatham-Kent. From smart layouts to efficient plumbing, we’ll help you bring your vision to life without stress or surprises.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover how our renovation and plumbing expertise can transform your space.

📞 Phone: 519-354-9491
📧 Email: contact@postma.ca
🌐 Website: https://www.postma.ca

📍 Serving Windsor, Sarnia, Chatham-Kent, St. Thomas and the surrounding areas.

When winter hits Chatham-Kent, a reliable heating system isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Whether you need a quick furnace repair, a full HVAC installation, or seasonal maintenance, Postma Heating & Cooling has the experience and expertise to keep your home warm and energy-efficient all season long.

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Expert Heating Services in Chatham-Kent

At Postma, we provide complete heating services tailored to your home’s size, energy usage, and comfort needs. Our trained technicians handle everything from residential furnace installations to commercial HVAC servicing. We specialize in:

• Furnace replacements & upgrades

• Emergency heating repairs

• Seasonal system tune-ups

• High-efficiency HVAC solutions

Our team is fully licensed, and we offer transparent pricing and fast response times.

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Furnace Repairs Done Right — 24/7 Service Available

A broken furnace during a cold Ontario night is more than an inconvenience — it’s a risk. If your furnace won’t turn on, is blowing cold air, or is making strange noises, it’s time to call for emergency service. Postma offers 24/7 furnace repair throughout Chatham-Kent.

We service all major brands and common issues including:

• Ignition or pilot light problems

• Faulty thermostats

• Noisy or non-functioning blower motors

• Frequent cycling or poor airflow

Learn how to troubleshoot common furnace issues on The Spruce.

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New Furnace Installation for Maximum Efficiency

If your current system is over 15 years old or frequently breaking down, it may be time for an upgrade. We offer energy-efficient furnace installation in Chatham-Kent with features like smart thermostats, zoning systems, and quiet operation.

Benefits of upgrading your furnace:

• Lower energy bills

• Better indoor air quality

• Improved heating performance

• Rebates for ENERGY STAR-certified models

Explore government rebates for HVAC upgrades at Enbridge Gas.

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Schedule Your Heating Maintenance Before the Cold Weather Hits

Don’t wait until the first snowfall to find out your furnace isn’t working properly. Scheduling furnace maintenance in early fall ensures your system is ready to handle Ontario’s freezing temperatures before you actually need it. Postma’s certified HVAC technicians perform thorough inspections and tune-ups that help prevent mid-winter breakdowns and expensive emergency repairs.

Benefits of early furnace maintenance:

• Catch minor issues before they become major problems

• Improve energy efficiency and reduce heating bills

• Ensure consistent airflow and home comfort

• Extend the lifespan of your HVAC system

Booking your maintenance early also gives you priority scheduling and peace of mind as the colder months approach.

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Heat Pumps and Hybrid HVAC Systems: Greener Heating for Chatham-Kent Homes

More homeowners in Chatham-Kent are switching to heat pumps or hybrid HVAC systems as a cleaner, more energy-efficient way to heat and cool their homes. These systems reduce reliance on fossil fuels by using electricity and can significantly lower both your utility bills and your carbon footprint.

Hybrid systems, which combine a traditional gas furnace with an electric heat pump, automatically switch between energy sources for maximum efficiency based on outdoor temperatures.

This shift aligns with Canada’s national goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and move toward a clean electricity future. In fact, the federal government outlines these efforts in its 2035 Clean Electricity Plan, encouraging Canadians to adopt sustainable home energy solutions.

If you’re looking to future-proof your home, heat pumps and hybrid systems are smart, eco-conscious investments.

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Indoor Air Quality & Heating System Health

Your HVAC system does more than heat your home — it controls your indoor air quality. Dirty filters, dusty ducts, or malfunctioning humidifiers can lead to allergens, dry air, or respiratory discomfort. We offer add-ons like:

• Whole-home humidifiers

• HEPA filtration

• UV air purification systems

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Why Chatham-Kent Trusts Postma Heating & Cooling

Serving the Chatham-Kent area for over 30 years, Postma Heating & Cooling is known for expert service, certified technicians, and a customer-first approach. Whether you’re building a new home, replacing a worn-out system, or need a fast repair, we’re here to help — 24/7.

When it comes to heating services in Chatham-Kent, don’t settle for anything less than expert care. Whether you need a furnace repair, full system installation, or just annual maintenance, trust the professionals at Postma to keep your home safe, warm, and energy efficient all year long.

To schedule a service, get a quote, or speak with our HVAC pros today, reach out!

Phone: 519-354-9491
Email: contact@postma.ca
Website: www.postma.ca
Address: 22132 Charing Cross Rd, Chatham, ON N7M 5J3

As technology advances and energy efficiency becomes a priority, more Ontario homeowners are choosing to invest in a professional HVAC upgrade—not just to fix old systems, but to future-proof their homes. At Postma Heating & Cooling, we’re seeing a major trend in 2025: people aren’t waiting for breakdowns—they’re upgrading proactively to save money, stay comfortable, and take advantage of limited-time rebates.

Here’s why an HVAC upgrade could be the smartest decision you make for your home this year.

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1. Older Systems Drain Your Energy Budget

If your furnace, AC, or combined system is over 10–15 years old, it’s likely underperforming—even if it’s technically still running. These aging units often have lower efficiency ratings and require more energy to deliver the same level of comfort. That means higher utility bills and more frequent repairs.

Modern HVAC systems use significantly less power and can reduce your energy bills by up to 30–50%, depending on your setup and usage. Over time, those savings can help pay back your investment—and then some.

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2. Heating and Cooling in One Efficient Package

Upgrading your HVAC system doesn’t just mean replacing what’s broken—it’s an opportunity to simplify and modernize. Many homeowners are switching to heat pumps or ductless mini-splits, which offer both heating and cooling in one unit.

These systems are perfect for Ontario’s seasonal climate and can include zone control, allowing you to independently manage temperatures in different areas of your home. More control means more comfort—and fewer wasted dollars.

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3. Rebates Make 2025 the Ideal Time to Upgrade

With rebates available through programs like the Canada Greener Homes Initiative, 2025 is one of the best times to complete an HVAC upgrade in Ontario. Eligible homeowners can access up to $6,500 in incentives for installing high-efficiency systems such as heat pumps, ENERGY STAR® certified equipment, and smart thermostats.

Postma’s team is experienced in navigating rebate applications—we make sure you don’t miss out on any available savings.

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4. Reduced Repairs and Longer System Life

Constant repairs can be a sign that your HVAC system is nearing the end of its life. Instead of continuing to patch an inefficient system, an upgrade gives you peace of mind and fewer service calls.

New HVAC systems are built for durability, often lasting 15–20 years with proper maintenance. Many models include advanced features like self-diagnostics and variable-speed motors, which help prevent breakdowns and improve long-term reliability.

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5. HVAC Upgrades Increase Your Home’s Resale Value

Buyers today are looking for efficient, modern systems that won’t need replacing anytime soon. A recent HVAC upgrade shows that your home has been well maintained—and can significantly boost your resale value.

Features like high-efficiency furnaces, smart thermostats, and quiet operation all appeal to energy-conscious buyers. If you’re thinking of selling in the next few years, an HVAC upgrade is one of the best investments you can make.

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Which HVAC Upgrade Is Right for Your Home?

Choosing the right system depends on your current setup, home size, and comfort preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown:

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Why Homeowners Trust Postma Heating & Cooling

When it comes to HVAC, installation quality matters just as much as the equipment you choose. That’s why Postma is a leading choice for homeowners in Chatham and across Southwestern Ontario.

We’re proud to be recognized by ThreeBestRated as one of the Top 3 HVAC Companies in Chatham, based on reputation, customer satisfaction, and service excellence. Our team is known for:

• 40+ years of trusted service

• Certified, professional HVAC technicians

• Transparent pricing and flexible financing options

• Full support with rebates and warranties

• Reliable, friendly service from start to finish

We’re also proud to be a Premier Lennox® Dealer. A Lennox Premier Dealer is a recognized HVAC expert known for high standards in service, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. This means our customers gain access to the latest Lennox innovations—installed by trusted, highly trained professionals.

At Postma, we don’t just replace equipment—we deliver personalized comfort solutions that make sense for your home, lifestyle, and budget.

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Let’s Plan Your HVAC Upgrade

If your current system is outdated, costly to run, or no longer meeting your needs, 2025 is the perfect year to plan an HVAC upgrade. With energy savings, government rebates, and better home comfort on the table, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.

📞 Call us today at 519-354-9491
🌐 Schedule your free consultation at Postma.ca

We’ll help you choose the right system, install it with care, and make sure you get every rebate you’re eligible for.

As the cooler air starts to roll in, your furnace becomes one of the most relied-on systems in your home. Without regular care, even the most reliable units can become inefficient or fail unexpectedly—usually right when you need them most. Early furnace tune up service from Postma ensures your system is ready for the months ahead and helps prevent mid-season breakdowns.

What’s Included in a Professional Furnace Tune Up?

A typical tune up includes a complete inspection of your furnace’s internal components—cleaning burners, testing ignition systems, inspecting the heat exchanger, and replacing or cleaning the air filter. At Postma, our technicians also check for potential safety hazards like gas leaks or carbon monoxide, and make sure your thermostat and airflow are working properly.

Carrier emphasizes that routine furnace tune ups help maintain performance, improve air quality, and reduce the risk of unexpected repairs. Keeping your system in peak condition ensures consistent comfort during the coldest months.

How a Tune Up Can Lower Heating Costs

When your furnace isn’t tuned up regularly, it has to work harder to heat your home. Dust buildup, clogged filters, and worn parts reduce efficiency and drive up energy bills. Regular service helps your furnace run smoothly and keeps costs under control. According to Bryant, proper tune ups not only lower energy usage but also extend the life of your system—saving you from premature replacements.

Why You Should Book Early

Once temperatures drop, HVAC companies across Ontario fill up fast with emergency repair calls. Booking your furnace tune up now ensures a convenient time slot and gives technicians time to identify and fix any issues before winter fully sets in.

Early Warning Signs Your Furnace May Need Service

Strange noises, uneven heating, short cycling, or higher-than-normal bills may be signs your furnace needs a tune up. Even without obvious symptoms, regular service is essential to catch small problems before they become big, expensive ones.

How Tune Ups Help Your Furnace Last Longer

A well-maintained furnace can last 15 to 20 years, but neglecting annual tune ups puts extra strain on your system. Over time, this wear and tear can cause premature failure. Keeping up with scheduled service protects your investment and ensures long-term reliability.

Why Homeowners Choose Postma for Furnace Tune Ups

Postma has decades of experience helping homeowners across Ontario keep their homes warm and energy-efficient. Our certified technicians follow manufacturer guidelines, use industry-best tools, and take the time to ensure your system is ready for the season ahead. With Postma, you get expert service, peace of mind, and a home that stays comfortable all winter.

Contact Us To Book Your Furnace Tune Up Today!

519-354-9491

www.postma.ca

Looking for a smarter, more efficient way to heat and cool your home in Chatham-Kent, St. Thomas, Windsor, or Sarnia? A properly installed heat pump provides year-round comfort and serious energy savings — especially when installed by the trusted experts at Postma Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical. Whether you’re ready to replace your air conditioner or want to take the next step for energy efficiency and head straight to a new heat pump installation, Postma can help.

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🔥 What Is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a dual-purpose HVAC system that both heats and cools your home by transferring heat, not generating it. In winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air to warm your home. In summer, it removes indoor heat and pushes it outside — just like an air conditioner.

Modern heat pumps, especially cold-climate models, work efficiently even in -25°C, making them ideal for Southern Ontario homeowners.

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✅ Why Choose a Heat Pump?

✔️ Year-Round Efficiency

Keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

✔️ Lower Monthly Bills

Heat pumps can cut heating energy use by up to 60%, especially compared to electric baseboards or older systems.

✔️ Environmentally Friendly

They run on electricity and produce no on-site carbon emissions, supporting a cleaner future.

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💸 Heat Pump Installation Costs in Southwestern Ontario

Our team at Postma will assess your home and recommend the best-fit system — with full pricing transparency.

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💰 Heat Pump Rebates for Ontario Homeowners

There are several programs available to make your investment more affordable:

• Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) – Up to $6,500 for qualifying systems

• Canada Greener Homes Loan – Up to $40,000, interest-free, over 10 years

• Canada Greener Homes Grant – Up to $5,000 toward eligible energy upgrades

• Local utility rebates – Check availability in your area (we’ll help with that too)

🔍 Not sure if your system qualifies? Use the NRCan Product List or read our rebates guide to walk you through it.

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🧰 Postma Heat Pump Maintenance Services

We provide full-service maintenance for your heat pump which includes:

• Seasonal inspections

• Filter changes

• System diagnostics

Proper maintenance helps your heat pump run longer and more efficiently — and protects your investment.

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🏠 Why Southwestern Ontario Homeowners Trust Postma

For over 35 years, Postma Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical has delivered trusted services.

Our certified technicians are experts in:

• Heat pump installation

• Ductless mini-split systems

• Plumbing and electrical upgrades

• HVAC repairs and servicing

• Energy-efficient home solutions

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📞 Get a Free Heat Pump Quote Today

Now is the perfect time to upgrade your heating and cooling system. Whether you’re in Chatham-Kent, Windsor, St. Thomas, or Sarnia, we’re ready to help you stay comfortable and save money year-round.

🔗 Visit: www.postma.ca
📞 Call: 519-354-9491
📍 Serving Chatham-Kent and nearby communities for over 35 years.

When summer heat sets in, nothing is more frustrating than an AC not cooling when you need it most. Every year, Postma Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical gets a wave of service calls from homeowners with the same complaint: the air conditioner is running, but the air coming out is warm.

One of the leading causes? A small but essential component called the capacitor.

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The Role of a Capacitor in Cooling Your Home

The capacitor works like a burst of stored energy for your AC’s motors. There are two main types:

• Start capacitors – Give the compressor the power surge it needs to start running.

• Run capacitors – Keep the motor running smoothly through the cooling cycle.

When a capacitor fails, your AC may hum but never start, shut off unexpectedly, or simply blow warm air. That’s when you end up with an AC not cooling right in the middle of a heatwave.

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Why Summer Heat Triggers More AC Problems

Hot, humid summer weather puts extreme stress on air conditioning systems. Capacitor failures spike during this season because of:

1. Heat stress – High outdoor temperatures cause internal components to overheat and wear out faster.

2. Heavy workload – Long cooling cycles mean capacitors are charging and discharging constantly.

3. Age – Capacitors generally last 5–10 years, and older ones are more likely to fail under pressure.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s guide to common AC problems, regular maintenance is key to preventing these situations by spotting worn parts before they break.

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Signs Your AC May Have a Failing Capacitor

If your air conditioner is blowing warm air or taking too long to start, the capacitor might be to blame. Watch for these signs:

• Weak or no airflow from vents

• AC shuts off randomly during operation

• Humming sound from the outdoor unit

• Bulging or leaking capacitor casing

• Burning smell near the outdoor unit

Any of these symptoms can lead to an AC not cooling — and running the system in this condition risks damaging the compressor.

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How to Prevent Mid-Summer Breakdowns

While capacitors will eventually wear out, you can lower the chances of an AC emergency by:

• Scheduling annual AC maintenance in spring

• Keeping the outdoor condenser free from dirt and debris

• Avoiding sudden thermostat drops during extreme heat

• Replacing older capacitors before peak cooling season

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Other Reasons an AC Might Not Be Cooling

Not all cooling problems are caused by capacitors. Your system could also be struggling due to:

• Low refrigerant from a leak

• Dirty evaporator or condenser coils

• Clogged air filter

• Faulty thermostat

• Compressor issues

Carrier’s troubleshooting guide for AC not working highlights that airflow restrictions, electrical faults, and sensor problems can also cause poor cooling performance.

Only a certified HVAC technician can confirm the cause of an AC not cooling and recommend the right repair.

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Get Your Cool Back Fast

If your AC is not cooling, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Capacitor failures are one of the most common issues we see every summer, but quick action can save you from costly repairs.

Whether you’re in Chatham-Kent or the surrounding area, Postma Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical can get your system running at full power again so you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home all summer long.

📞 519-354-9491
📲 226-702-2071
🔗 www.postma.ca
📧contact@postma.ca

 

When your heating or cooling system isn’t doing what it should, it’s easy to assume the furnace or air conditioner is to blame. But more often than you might think, it’s a thermostat acting up. A few simple steps could help you figure things out—and possibly avoid a service call. At Postma Heating Cooling Plumbing and Electrical, we always recommend ruling out the basics before reaching for the phone.

Check the Thermostat Display and Power Source

Start by looking at the display. If the screen is blank or not responding, it could be as simple as drained batteries. Most battery-powered thermostats need a change once a year. For hardwired or smart thermostats, make sure they’re getting power, especially if you’ve recently had electrical work or a power outage.

Some smart thermostats, like Ecobee or Nest, need a constant flow of power and won’t work correctly without a common (C) wire. That’s something not all older homes are set up for. If you’re unsure how your thermostat gets its power, it’s a good idea to understand the basics of smart home wiring. The Electrical Safety Authority offers helpful info about wiring safely for smart technology in Ontario homes.

Double Check the Settings

It seems obvious, but it’s worth confirming the thermostat is set to the right mode—heating, cooling, or auto—and that the temperature is actually high or low enough to trigger the system. It’s common for someone to accidentally switch modes or change the schedule without realizing it. A quick adjustment might be all it takes.

Look at the Breaker Panel

If your system still won’t turn on, head over to your home’s electrical panel. A tripped breaker can cut power to your HVAC equipment or thermostat, causing it to stop responding. Flip the breaker fully off, then back on to reset it. If it trips again, it’s best to get that looked at by a licensed professional.

Give It a Gentle Clean

Thermostats can collect dust and grime over time, especially older mechanical models. Carefully remove the front cover and gently wipe around the sensors and buttons with a dry cloth. Avoid using any liquid cleaners or compressed air, as those can damage the internal components.

Review Smart Thermostat Settings

If you have a smart thermostat, open the app and check your settings. Things like disconnected Wi-Fi, outdated firmware, or a misconfigured schedule can all prevent your system from running. A quick reboot or re-connection can sometimes solve the issue.

Thinking about upgrading to a smart thermostat? The federal government may cover part of the cost under the Canada Greener Homes Initiative, which includes rebates for eligible smart home improvements.

Safely Test a Bypass (Only If You Know How)

If you’re confident working with low-voltage wiring, you can try a manual test. Turn off power to the system, remove the thermostat from the wall, and briefly connect the R (power) and W (heat) wires. If the furnace kicks on, the thermostat is likely the issue. This isn’t for everyone, so if you’re unsure, skip it and give us a call.

When It’s Time to Call Postma

If none of these steps fix the problem, it’s time to bring in the experts. Whether it’s the thermostat or something more complex like your HVAC system, our trained professionals at Postma will find the solution quickly and safely. We’ve been proudly serving Chatham-Kent for over 35 years, with honest service and dependable results that give you peace of mind.

📞 519-354-9491
🌐 www.postma.ca
📧 contact@postma.ca

Summers in Chatham‑Kent and the surrounding areas can be hot and humid, and keeping a home comfortable depends on a well‑designed air‑conditioning system. For homeowners and business owners looking for expert air conditioning services in our community, a proactive approach is essential. As a mechanical contractor working with clients across Chatham‑Kent and southwestern Ontario, Postma Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical sees a common theme—people wait for their system to break before thinking about maintenance. In reality, the cost of ownership is driven by energy efficiency. Air‑conditioners account for a significant portion of household electricity use, so investing in regular service and strategic upgrades not only lowers utility bills but also prolongs equipment life.

Why preventive maintenance matters

It’s easy to forget about your HVAC equipment when it’s tucked away in the basement or outside. However, a neglected air‑conditioner loses efficiency each season as filters clog, coils get dirty and refrigerant levels drift. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) recommends keeping your system clean and changing filters regularly; dirty filters and coils force the system to work harder, increasing energy consumption. Beyond cleaning, professional technicians will tighten electrical connections, lubricate moving parts and inspect condensate drains to prevent water damage.

According to Hydro One’s energy guide, heating and cooling account for roughly 65% of a typical home’s energy costs. Simple steps like sealing air leaks around windows and doors can reduce heating and cooling needs by up to 20%, while using a programmable thermostat can cut energy use by about 10%. These low‑cost actions go hand‑in‑hand with professional maintenance; a tune‑up ensures that your air‑conditioner delivers the comfort you pay for rather than wasting electricity.

When to consider replacing your AC

If your current central air‑conditioner or heat‑pump is more than a decade old, it might be cheaper in the long run to replace it. NRCan notes that upgrading to an ENERGY STAR certified central air‑conditioner can save “upwards of 20%” in energy compared with an older model. Newer systems are quieter, more reliable and use less energy. Other signs that it’s time to upgrade include major component failures, frequent service calls and unusual noise during operation.

As an HVAC contractor, we often recommend high‑efficiency variable‑speed systems because they modulate output based on demand. They maintain more consistent temperatures and humidity, which improves indoor air quality and reduces wear on components. When paired with smart thermostats and zoning controls, these systems can trim energy consumption even further.

Take advantage of energy programs

Homeowners in Chatham‑Kent and southwestern Ontario don’t have to shoulder the cost of energy savings alone. For example, the Save On Energy CoolSaver program provides free tune‑ups for central air‑conditioners and heat‑pumps in eligible regions. The program focuses on reducing electricity consumption: participants receive a thorough inspection and cleaning that catches problems early, avoids costly repairs and improves efficiency. The tune‑up covers condenser and evaporator coil cleaning, blower adjustment and replacement of filters—helping your system run more efficiently.

In addition to provincial programs, federal incentives are available for major upgrades. NRCan’s Greener Homes initiative and the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) program offer rebates for high‑efficiency heat‑pumps and central air‑conditioners. These rebates can offset a significant portion of the installation cost, making the switch to a modern system more affordable.

Best practices for homeowners

• Schedule annual tune‑ups. An air‑conditioner tune‑up identifies minor issues before they become major breakdowns and keeps the system running efficiently.

• Change filters and clean coils. Dirty filters and coils restrict airflow and lower efficiency. Replace or clean filters regularly and keep coils and ductwork free of dust.

• Seal and insulate. Caulking and weatherstripping around windows, doors and attic hatches can reduce cooling loads by up to 20%. Adequate attic insulation also slows heat transfer.

• Use smart thermostats and fans. Smart thermostats adjust temperatures automatically when you’re away, while ENERGY STAR certified ceiling fans help maintain comfort at higher thermostat settings.

• Shade and ventilation. Close blinds during the day, use awnings, and plant trees to reduce solar heat gain. Use exhaust fans when cooking or showering to reduce indoor humidity.

How professional air conditioning services add value

Working with a certified HVAC contractor ensures that your system complies with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and manufacturer specifications. Our licensed technicians conduct detailed load calculations, install ductwork for optimal airflow, and integrate smart controls to improve performance. We also handle permit applications and rebate coordination for you.

When paired with energy‑efficiency programs, these services provide immediate and long‑term returns. A properly sized, ENERGY STAR certified system reduces monthly bills, and installation costs may be partially offset through rebates. For property managers and investors, high‑efficiency HVAC upgrades also boost asset value and appeal to environmentally conscious tenants.

Final thoughts

Air‑conditioning is more than a luxury in Chatham‑Kent—it’s a necessity. By prioritizing preventative maintenance, upgrading aging equipment and leveraging government programs, homeowners and businesses can stay cool while controlling costs. Whether you need a routine tune‑up, an emergency repair or a full system replacement, partnering with a professional HVAC contractor like Postma ensures the job is done right.

📞 519-354-9491

📲 226-702-2071

🔗 www.postma.ca

📧 contact@postma.ca.