Frequently asked questions

What services does RB Impact HVAC offer?

At RB Impact HVAC, we take pride in delivering expert HVAC solutions across Alberta, focusing on energy-efficient systems that help you save on costs while maximizing comfort. We specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers, water heaters, and attic insulation.

Beyond heating and cooling, we offer home comfort solutions, including HEPA filters, humidifiers, water softeners, air cleaners, UV air purifiers, and smart home technology like security cameras, smart locks, smoke detectors, thermostats, and temperature sensors.

Our goal is to ensure year-round comfort for both residential and commercial clients. With flexible financing options—$0 down and 0% interest—as well as affordable maintenance plans starting at just $9.99 per month, we make it easy to invest in your home’s efficiency.

We proudly partner with top brands, including Trane, Rheem, Lennox, Goodman, Navien, Ducane, Gree, and Midea, to bring you high-quality, reliable solutions. Plus, with our 10-year worry-free warranty and BBB accreditation, you can trust us to provide exceptional service and lasting peace of mind.

How does RB Impact HVAC improve furnace efficiency?

RB Impact HVAC maximizes furnace efficiency with expert installation, routine maintenance, and professional repairs. Our services include comprehensive inspections, filter replacements, cleaning of key components, and system optimization to ensure top performance. By improving airflow, fine-tuning burners, and sealing duct leaks, we help lower energy consumption and reduce heating costs. We also offer high-efficiency furnace upgrades and budget-friendly maintenance plans to keep your system running reliably for years to come.

Can RB Impact HVAC services help lower energy bills?

We help lower your energy bills by optimizing the efficiency of your furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, boiler, water heater, and attic insulation. Through professional maintenance, expert repairs, and high-efficiency system upgrades, we ensure your HVAC system operates at peak performance—using less energy to heat or cool your home. By improving airflow, sealing leaks, and fine-tuning equipment, we provide cost-effective solutions that reduce energy consumption while enhancing your comfort.

What makes RB Impact HVAC different from other HVAC companies?

RB Impact HVAC stands out by providing customized HVAC solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our customer-first approach, expert craftsmanship, and cost-effective options help you save on energy bills without straining your budget. We provide 24/7 reliable HVAC services, ensuring you get fast support whenever you need it. Plus, with $0 down, 0% interest financing and flexible maintenance plans starting at just $9.99 per month, we make home comfort affordable. Committed to transparency, quality, and around-the-clock service, we deliver top-tier solutions designed just for you.

Does RB Impact HVAC offer emergency services?

Yes! We offer 24/7 emergency HVAC services to keep your home comfortable all year long. Whether your furnace breaks down in the winter, your AC stops working in the summer, your water heater fails, or you experience any other HVAC related issues, our expert technicians are always available to provide fast, reliable repairs whenever you need them.

Why Does My Furnace Smell Dusty When I Turn It On?

A dusty or burning smell when you first start your furnace is completely normal. This happens because dust and debris accumulate inside the system over time, and when the furnace heats up, it burns off the buildup, causing the odor. However, if the smell lasts more than 10-15 minutes, it could indicate a need for maintenance or a filter replacement.

While gas-burning appliances provide comfort, safety should always be a priority. Regular maintenance helps prevent potential issues, ensuring your system runs efficiently and safely. We offer flexible maintenance plans starting at just $9.99 per month, providing routine system checks and optimal performance for peace of mind.

How Can I Prevent My Furnace from Smelling Dusty?

Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent dust buildup and unwanted odors in your furnace. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Schedule annual maintenance: Before the heating season begins, have a professional clean your system, inspect for potential issues, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
  • Change filters regularly: A clean filter improves air quality, reduces dust accumulation, and helps your furnace operate efficiently.
  • Prioritize safety: Carbon monoxide is a silent threat. Always have a working smoke detector on every floor of your home to ensure safety.
    If the dusty smell persists, turn off your furnace and call a professional for an inspection to keep your system running safely and efficiently.

Why does my furnace have a burning smell?

A burning smell can sometimes signal an electrical issue, such as overheating components or faulty wiring within the furnace. If the odor persists or resembles burning plastic, turn off your system immediately and contact a professional. This could indicate a serious problem that requires urgent attention to prevent potential damage or safety hazards.

Why does my furnace smell like oil or gas?

If your furnace runs on oil or gas, a dusty or burning smell could indicate a problem with the fuel system. This may be caused by a clogged burner, a venting system leak, exhaust fumes, or even a gas leak. If you detect a persistent gas odor, turn off your furnace immediately and contact a professional for an inspection to ensure your safety.

Can a dirty air filter cause a muggy smell?

Yes, a dirty air filter can cause a musty or muggy smell. Air filters trap dust, dirt, and other particles to improve air quality and keep your furnace running efficiently. When the filter becomes clogged or dirty, it can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and potentially leading to unpleasant odors. Regularly replacing your filter helps eliminate this issue and ensures your system operates smoothly and efficiently.

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

Furnace will blow cold air when the blower is running without the pilot light/burner not igniting properly. 

It can also happen if the furnace is overheating and shutting off as a safety measure, or if there’s a problem with the gas supply.

How much does a furnace replacement cost in Calgary?

In Calgary, a new furnace replacement typically costs about $3,900–$10,000 CAD, including installation, depending on the furnace size, efficiency, and brand. 
High-efficiency models and more complex installations can cost more, often reaching $10,000 CAD.

What size furnace do I need?

The right furnace size depends on your home's square footage, insulation, ceiling height, and local climate—not just the size of the house.
Most homes need a furnace between 60,000 and 120,000 BTUs, but a professional load calculation is the best way to determine the correct size.

Should I repair or replace my furnace?

If the repair cost exceeds approximately 30% of a new furnace's value, or the heat exchanger, blower motor, or control board has failed, replacement is typically the more economical choice over the remaining life of the system.

It also depends on the previous maintenance and condition of the equipment. A furnace not only provides comfort, but it can also become a safety hazard if it is in poor condition. 

Why is my furnace making loud noises?

If you hear banging, squealing, rattling, or grinding sounds, it could be caused by blower motor, inducer/ventor motor or ductwork. It's best to have the system inspected, as these noises can indicate mechanical wear or safety-related issues.

How much does a furnace tune-up cost?

A furnace tune-up in Calgary typically costs $120–$300, with most standard maintenance visits falling around $150–$200 depending on the provider and service included. 

RB Impact HVAC provides affordable monthly service plan to help homeowners protect their heating and cooling systems year-round.

Is air conditioning worth it in Calgary?

Yes—air conditioning is worth it for many Calgary homeowners, especially during summer heat waves and periods of poor air quality from wildfire smoke.

It improves indoor comfort, helps control humidity, and can increase your home's value while providing cleaner indoor air year-round.

How much does AC installation cost?

AC installation in Calgary typically costs $4,000–$9,000 CAD, with most homeowners paying around $5,000–$8,000 for a standard central air conditioning system installed. 

The final price depends on your home's size, the AC unit's efficiency, ductwork condition, and any electrical or installation upgrades required

What size AC do I need?

The right AC size depends on your home's square footage, insulation, window exposure, ceiling height, and airflow—not just the size of the house.

Most Calgary homes require a 2–5 ton AC unit, but a professional load calculation ensures the system is properly sized for maximum comfort and efficiency

Why is my AC not cooling?

Your AC may not be cooling due to a dirty air filter, low refrigerant, a faulty thermostat, or a clogged outdoor condenser unit.

If the system is running but blowing warm air, it's best to have it inspected to prevent further damage and restore efficiency.

Why does my AC freeze up?

Your AC can freeze up due to restricted airflow from a dirty air filter, blocked vents, or a failing blower motor that prevents warm air from flowing over the evaporator coil.

Low refrigerant levels or refrigerant leaks can also cause the coil temperature to drop below freezing, leading to ice buildup and reduced cooling performance.

Should You Cover Your Air Conditioner During Calgary Winters?

Yes, but only partially. In Calgary, it's generally recommended to cover the top of your outdoor AC unit to protect it from snow, ice, and debris while still allowing airflow around the sides.

A full cover can trap moisture inside the unit, potentially leading to rust, mold, or damage, so a breathable top cover is usually the better option.

Should I repair or replace my AC?

It depends on your AC's age and the cost of repairs. If you're facing major repairs on a unit that's 10–15+ years old, replacing it is often a better long-term investment than continuing to repair an aging system.

A new AC provides improved efficiency, lower energy bills, better reliability, and peace of mind for the next 10–15 years instead of repeatedly spending money on breakdowns.

Do heat pumps work in Alberta winters?

Yes, cold-climate heat pumps can work very well in Alberta winters, and many modern models continue operating efficiently at temperatures as low as -25°C or lower. 

For maximum comfort during extreme cold snaps, many homeowners choose a dual-fuel system, where a heat pump handles most of the heating and a high-efficiency furnace provides backup when temperatures drop significantly.

Can a heat pump replace my furnace?

Yes, in many homes a cold-climate heat pump can replace a furnace, but its effectiveness depends on your home's insulation, heating requirements, and Alberta's winter temperatures. 

Many Alberta homeowners choose a dual-fuel system, where the heat pump handles most of the heating and cooling year-round, while a furnace provides backup heat during extreme cold for maximum comfort and efficiency.

Heat pump rebates in Alberta

Rebates and incentives for heat pumps can change frequently and often depend on factors such as your location, household eligibility, the type of system being installed, and program availability.

The best way to find out what rebates you may qualify for is to contact us directly—we can help you identify any current programs and guide you through the available options.

Heat pump installation cost

Heat pump installation costs can vary depending on your home's size, the type of system, and the complexity of the installation.

Most homeowners can expect to invest anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000+, with cold-climate and whole-home systems typically costing more due to their advanced technology and capacity.

How do Chinooks affect my HVAC system?

Chinooks can cause rapid temperature swings, which means your HVAC system may switch between heating and cooling demands more frequently than in other climates.

These sudden changes can increase system cycling, put extra wear on components, and make regular maintenance even more important to keep your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner running efficiently year-round.

Do I need a humidifier in Calgary?

Yes, a humidifier can be a great addition in Calgary, where indoor air often becomes very dry during the heating season.

A whole-home humidifier can help improve comfort, reduce dry skin and static electricity, and protect wood floors and furniture from excessive drying.

Why is my house so dry in winter?

Your house feels dry in winter because Calgary's cold outdoor air contains very little moisture, and your furnace further reduces indoor humidity as it heats the air.

Low humidity can lead to dry skin, static electricity, sore throats, and even damage to wood furniture and flooring, which is why many homeowners choose to install a whole-home humidifier.

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