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In Montréal as in Laval, winter shows no mercy: temperatures drop below −25 °C and a failing heating system can turn your home into a freezer within hours. Whether you want to install a new heating system, repair a broken furnace or simply get your equipment ready before the deep cold, this guide walks you through your options, the warning signs to watch for and the financial incentives available in 2026.

 

Getting your heating system ready for winter

In Québec, the heating season runs from October to April. Most breakdowns happen early in the season, when the cold truly sets in: a system called back into service after months of inactivity reveals its weaknesses at the worst possible time. Preventive maintenance in the fall remains the best way to avoid a breakdown in the middle of January.

A full pre-winter inspection includes:

• inspecting the burner, heat exchanger and electrical connections;
• replacing or cleaning the air filters;
• checking the thermostat and its programming;
• checking the refrigerant level for heat pumps;
• testing the automatic defrost of the outdoor unit.

The right time: have your system inspected in September or October. Technicians are more available than during a cold snap, and you avoid the cost of an emergency call-out.

Which heating system should you choose in Montréal and Laval?

Choosing the right system depends on your type of home, whether you have ductwork and your current energy source. Here are the four most common options in Greater Montréal.

Heating installation: the steps of a job well done

A successful installation is more than just putting in a unit. Incorrect sizing or a non-compliant electrical connection reduces your system's efficiency and can void your eligibility for grants. At Climatisation Atlas, every installation follows a rigorous process:

1. Needs analysis: assessing the floor area, insulation and your current energy source.
2. Sizing: calculating the capacity (in BTU/h) truly suited to your home — neither too much nor too little.
3. Professional installation: optimal positioning of the outdoor unit, code-compliant electrical connections and proper electrical panel configuration.
4. Commissioning and testing: a full performance check before your first winter.
5. Training: explaining how to operate and maintain your new equipment.