Winter HVAC Checklist for Vancouver — Survive Cold Snaps
Published: July 23, 2026 — BC Wide Home Services Ltd, doing business as BC Wide Heating & Air Conditioning — Greater Vancouver, BC
Monitor Your System
Check the air filter monthly — a dirty filter causes the most winter breakdowns. Listen for unusual furnace or boiler sounds. Check the boiler pressure gauge — maintain 1.0-1.5 bar. Monitor your gas bill for unusual increases. Clear snow from vent pipes and the gas meter after storms.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Keep the thermostat at minimum 15°C even when away. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. Let faucets drip slowly during extreme cold. Insulate exposed pipes in crawlspaces and garages. Know how to shut off your main water supply in case of a burst pipe.
Emergency Response Plan
If your heating fails: use electric space heaters in occupied rooms, close doors to unheated rooms, dress in layers, and use electric blankets. Call your HVAC company for service. If you smell gas or your CO detector alarms — evacuate and call 911. Keep a list of emergency contacts visible.