HVAC
Blair Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
Kelowna
SHOPS & SERVICES · KELOWNA & WEST KELOWNA
Your 2026 guide to staying comfortable in Kelowna, from summer heat and wildfire smoke to cozy gas fireplaces and efficient heat pumps.
10 heating & cooling pros · Updated September 2026Home pros guide · Go Kelowna
Photo: Bill Adams · Reliance Wightman Mechanical Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing via Google
01AT A GLANCE
The details that matter.
Kelowna’s climate demands robust heating and cooling. Modern heat pumps offer year-round efficiency, with potential CleanBC and FortisBC rebates. For hot Okanagan summers and wildfire smoke, central air conditioning with high-MERV filtration is key. Regular furnace and fireplace maintenance ensures reliability. Top-rated local pros like Blair Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning and Triumph Heating & Air Conditioning offer dependable service across the valley.
- Best Season
- Spring/Fall for installs
- Book Ahead
- 2-4 weeks minimum
- Key Rebate
- CleanBC & FortisBC
- Smoke Filter
- MERV 13+ recommended
01HOME PROS GUIDE
Heating & cooling
Heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioning.
HVAC
Triumph Heating & Air Conditioning
West Kelowna
HVAC
Reliance Wightman Mechanical Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
Kelowna
HVAC
Comfort Tech Heating & Cooling
Kelowna
HVAC
Milani Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
Kelowna
HVAC
Greenfoot Energy Solutions
West Kelowna
HVAC
Coral Home Comfort
Kelowna
HVAC
Key West Mechanical
Kelowna
HVAC
Air Temp Heating & Cooling Specialist
West Kelowna
HVAC
Benson Pacific Heating and Cooling Ltd.
Kelowna
Hover for a closer look.Tap a card for a closer look. A conversation takes you further.
•LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Kelowna Heating & Cooling: Your 2026 Guide
Here’s how to keep your home comfortable year-round in the Okanagan.
The short answer
For top-tier heating and cooling service in Kelowna, residents often turn to highly-rated professionals like Blair Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning in Kelowna and Triumph Heating & Air Conditioning in West Kelowna. Both are known for their extensive experience with Okanagan homes, from installing heat pumps in Glenmore to servicing furnaces in the Mission.
01Go Electric
Heat Pumps & Rebates
Heat pumps are a popular choice in Kelowna for a reason. They're incredibly efficient, acting as an air conditioner in the summer and a heater in the winter by moving heat instead of creating it. For our climate, which swings from hot, dry summers to chilly winters, a modern cold-climate heat pump can handle the majority of your heating needs, often supplemented by a furnace for the coldest days in January.
Significant government rebates can lower the upfront cost of a heat pump installation. The CleanBC Better Homes program and FortisBC offer rebates for switching to high-efficiency heat pumps. Depending on your income and the type of system you're replacing, these rebates can be substantial. For example, FortisBC offers up to $4,000 for its electric customers in the Okanagan for a qualifying air-source heat pump. Be sure to check the program websites for the latest 2026 details, as amounts and eligibility can change.
Installation costs in Kelowna can range widely, often from $5,000 to over $15,000 before rebates, depending on the home's size and whether new ductwork is needed. It's an investment that pays off in lower energy bills and year-round comfort. Companies that specialize in these energy-efficient solutions can help you navigate the rebate process and find the right system for your home, whether it's a new build in Kettle Valley or a retrofit in Rutland.
Local tips
- Ask your installer to help with the rebate paperwork.
- Confirm if you qualify for income-based enhanced rebates.
- A FortisBC maintenance rebate of $50 may also be available for heat pump service.
- The federal Canada Greener Homes program may offer additional grants or loans.
02Breathe Easy
AC & Wildfire Smoke
An Okanagan summer is glorious, but it’s no secret the heat can be intense. Central air conditioning is less a luxury and more a necessity for getting through July and August comfortably. When the smoke from regional wildfires settles into the valley, your AC system also becomes your first line of defence for indoor air quality, but only if you have the right filter.
During wildfire season, upgrading your furnace or air handler's filter is critical. Experts recommend using a filter with a MERV 13 rating or higher. This rating means the filter is effective at capturing the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in smoke that poses the biggest health risk. Remember to run your system's fan continuously to keep the air circulating through the filter, even if you don't need cooling.
A standard one-inch MERV 8 filter is great for dust and pollen but won't stop smoke particles. Check your system's manual or ask a technician if it can handle the thicker MERV 13 filter, as some older systems may have trouble with the restricted airflow. During heavy smoke, you may need to replace your filter as often as every 30 days. Having a few spares on hand before the smoke arrives is a smart move.
Local tips
- Buy MERV 13 filters before wildfire season starts, as they can sell out.
- Set your thermostat fan to “On” instead of “Auto” to constantly circulate and filter air.
- A portable HEPA air purifier can provide extra protection in bedrooms.
- Particle filters don't remove smoke odour; look for filters with an activated carbon layer for smells.
03Winter Ready
Furnace Service
When the temperature drops, the last thing you want is a furnace that won't start. Annual maintenance is the key to ensuring your furnace runs reliably and efficiently all winter long. Most manufacturers recommend a yearly professional tune-up, and it's often required to keep your warranty valid. The best time to book this service is in the early fall, before the first cold snap hits and technicians get busy.
A typical furnace inspection involves a comprehensive safety and performance check. A qualified technician will clean the burners and flame sensor, inspect the heat exchanger for cracks (which can lead to carbon monoxide leaks), test electrical connections, and check safety controls. This preventative care catches small issues before they become expensive middle-of-the-night emergencies.
Between professional visits, homeowners can help maintain their system. The most important task is checking your furnace filter monthly during heating season and replacing it when it's dirty. Also, ensure that snow or debris isn't blocking the exterior intake and exhaust vents. These simple steps help your furnace breathe easier and run more efficiently.
Local tips
- Schedule your furnace tune-up for September or October.
- FortisBC may offer a rebate for servicing your gas furnace.
- Keep the area around your furnace clear of clutter.
- Know the signs of a problem: unusual noises, frequent cycling, or a yellow pilot light.
04Cozy Evenings
Gas Fireplaces
Nothing makes a home feel cozier on a dark winter evening than a gas fireplace. They provide warmth and ambiance without the work of a wood-burning fire. To keep your fireplace safe and reliable, it's important to have it serviced regularly. Most technicians recommend a professional cleaning and inspection every one to two years, depending on how often you use it.
During a service call, a technician will clean the glass, logs, and burner assembly; check the pilot light and ignition system; and test for any gas leaks. This ensures the fireplace is burning cleanly and operating safely. A well-maintained fireplace will last longer and be ready the moment you want to use it, whether it's for background warmth in your Lower Mission home or as a centrepiece in a downtown condo.
If you have a FortisBC natural gas account, you may be eligible for a rebate of up to $25 for servicing your indoor gas fireplace. It's a small incentive that makes keeping up with maintenance even easier. Regular service ensures you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace without worry.
Local tips
- Test your fireplace in the fall before you need it.
- A faint smell of gas when the pilot is lit is normal, but a strong smell is not.
- Keep the area around your fireplace clear of flammable materials.
- Dust the vents and louvres regularly to maintain good airflow.
05Stay Ahead
Maintenance Schedules
Your home's heating and cooling system is one of its most expensive and complex components. Protecting that investment with a regular maintenance schedule is one of the smartest things a homeowner can do. It prevents breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends the life of your equipment. For most systems, professional service is recommended once a year.
The ideal schedule is to have your air conditioning system serviced in the spring and your furnace serviced in the fall. This ensures each system is ready for its peak season. A heat pump, which works year-round for both heating and cooling, should also be serviced annually. Booking in the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) is best, as HVAC companies are less busy.
Many local companies offer annual maintenance plans. These plans often include priority service and sometimes a discount on repairs. Considering the cost of an emergency call-out, these plans can be a worthwhile investment for peace of mind. It puts the responsibility on the company to call you and schedule the appointment, so you don't forget.
Local tips
- Change your furnace/air handler filter every 1-3 months.
- Keep outdoor AC units clear of leaves, weeds, and debris.
- Listen for any unusual noises from your equipment.
- Consider a maintenance plan for convenience and potential savings.
06Ask Right
Getting a Quote
When it's time to replace your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump, it’s wise to get at least three quotes from reputable local companies. Don't just compare the final price; look at the details of what's included. A proper quote should be a written document that specifies the exact make and model of the equipment being proposed, not just the brand name.
The quote should provide a clear breakdown of costs, including the equipment, labour, materials, and any necessary permits. It should also detail the warranty for both parts and labour. Ask about the company's licensing and insurance—they should be able to provide a Technical Safety BC licence number. A contractor who performs a detailed assessment of your home before quoting will likely provide a more accurate and reliable bid.
Finally, ask about their process. Will they remove and dispose of the old equipment? How will they protect your home during the installation? Who is responsible for applying for rebates? A professional company will have clear answers to these questions. Choosing the cheapest quote isn't always the best value; focus on the company that feels the most thorough, professional, and trustworthy.
Local tips
- Always get quotes in writing.
- Ask for the specific model numbers of the proposed equipment.
- Confirm that the company is licensed and insured.
- Inquire about both parts and labour warranties.
Blair Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning✳Triumph Heating & Air Conditioning✳Reliance Wightman Mechanical Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing✳Comfort Tech Heating & Cooling✳Milani Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning✳Greenfoot Energy Solutions✳Coral Home Comfort✳Key West Mechanical✳Air Temp Heating & Cooling Specialist✳Benson Pacific Heating and Cooling Ltd.✳
•BOOK A LOCAL
Make a day of it.
Tours, rentals, shops and stays run by Kelowna locals, all bookable from their profiles.
Loading book a local…
•THE FULL LIST
All 10 heating & cooling pros.
Search by name, narrow by type or community, and sort by the most-reviewed or highest-rated. Every card opens a full profile.
See them on the map10 places
HVACBlair Plumbing, Heating & Air ConditioningGeneral Contractor in Kelowna.★ 4.7 (938) · KelownaHVACTriumph Heating & Air ConditioningGeneral Contractor in West Kelowna.★ 4.9 (773) · West KelownaHVACReliance Wightman Mechanical Heating, Air Conditioning & PlumbingService in Kelowna.★ 4.9 (712) · KelownaHVACComfort Tech Heating & CoolingGeneral Contractor in Kelowna.★ 4.8 (522) · KelownaHVACMilani Plumbing, Heating & Air ConditioningGeneral Contractor in Kelowna.★ 4.7 (202) · KelownaHVACGreenfoot Energy SolutionsGeneral Contractor in West Kelowna.★ 4.9 (134) · West KelownaHVACCoral Home ComfortGeneral Contractor in Kelowna.★ 4.9 (127) · KelownaHVACKey West MechanicalGeneral Contractor in Kelowna.★ 5 (98) · KelownaHVACAir Temp Heating & Cooling SpecialistGeneral Contractor in West Kelowna.★ 5 (91) · West KelownaHVACBenson Pacific Heating and Cooling Ltd.General Contractor in Kelowna.★ 4.9 (57) · Kelowna•FAQ
Good to know
The U.S. EPA and air quality experts recommend using a filter with a MERV 13 rating or higher during wildfire smoke events. This rating is effective at capturing the fine smoke particles that are most harmful to your health. Always check that your HVAC system can support a MERV 13 filter before upgrading.
