Electrical & HVAC Resources for Okanagan Homeowner

Get clear, honest information about your home’s essential systems, from maintenance tips to safety advice. ProGrade Solutions helps you make informed decisions with confidence.

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HVAC Services

Reliable HVAC tips and answers to keep your Okanagan home comfortable year-round.

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  • How often should I service my furnace?

    Annual maintenance is recommended, ideally before heating season begins. Regular service prevents breakdowns, improves efficiency, and extends your furnace's lifespan.

  • What's the difference between a furnace and a heat pump?

    Furnaces generate heat by burning fuel (gas) or using electric elements. Heat pumps move heat from outside to inside (heating mode) or reverse the process (cooling mode). Heat pumps can both heat and cool your home, while furnaces only heat.

  • Are heat pumps effective in cold Okanagan winters?

    Modern heat pumps work well in our climate, especially newer cold-climate models. Many homeowners use a dual-fuel system: heat pump for mild weather and furnace backup for very cold days.

  • Can you help with rebates for new HVAC systems?

    Yes. I'm familiar with FortisBC and other local rebate programs. I can guide you through the process to maximize savings on energy-efficient equipment.

  • Why is my AC not cooling properly?

    Common causes include dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, blocked outdoor units, or aging equipment. I can diagnose the issue and recommend the most cost-effective solution.

About ProGrade Solutions

Certified, insured, and locally trusted, serving Okanagan homes and businesses with expertise.

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes. I hold all required BC licenses including Electrical Contractor License #LIC-00214146 and Gas Contractor License #LIC-00214163. I'm fully licensed, bonded, and insured with Class A FSR Master Electrician, Red Seal HVAC Mechanic, and Class B Gas Fitter certifications.

  • What areas do you serve?

    I'm based in West Kelowna and serve the entire Okanagan Valley including Kelowna, Big White, Penticton, Vernon and surrounding communities.

  • Do you work on commercial projects?

    Yes. While I primarily serve residential customers, I have extensive commercial and industrial experience and can handle business projects.

Electrical Services

Practical electrical guidance to keep your home powered safely, efficiently, and up to code.

Close-up of electrical components and wiring inside a control panel, with red and white wires visible.
  • How do I know if I need a panel upgrade?

    Signs include frequent breaker trips, buzzing sounds from your panel, a warm panel to the touch, flickering lights, or if your home still has an older 100-amp service. Most modern homes need 200-amp service to handle current electrical demands.

  • Can you help with permits for electrical work?

    Yes. I handle all necessary permitting and ensure work meets BC electrical code. Proper permits protect you and ensure your electrical system is safe and legal.

  • What's involved in rewiring a home?

    Home rewiring replaces outdated or unsafe wiring. The scope depends on your home's age and condition. I'll assess your electrical system and explain what work is needed and why.

Gas Fitting Services

Expert gas fitting advice to keep your home safe, efficient, and up to BC code.

  • What should I do if I smell gas?

    Leave your home immediately and call your gas provider's emergency line from outside. Once the situation is safe, contact me for leak detection and repair.

  • Can you convert my fireplace to natural gas?

    Yes. Gas fireplace conversions and new installations are part of my gas fitting services. I ensure all work meets BC gas code and safety standards.

  • Do I need a gas fitter to hook up a BBQ?

    Yes. Natural gas hookups must be installed by a licensed gas fitter to ensure safety and code compliance. I handle BBQ hookups, fire pits, and other outdoor gas applications.

Smart Home & Automation

Smart home insights to make your space more efficient, connected, and effortless to control.

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  • What is permanent Christmas lighting?

    Permanent lighting systems use discreet LED tracks installed on your roofline. You control colors and patterns from your smartphone, eliminating annual ladder climbing and storage hassles.

  • Will smart home technology work with my existing systems?

    Most smart home technology integrates with existing electrical and HVAC systems. I'll assess your current setup and recommend compatible solutions.

  • How much can a smart thermostat save on energy bills?

    Savings vary, but many homeowners see 10-15% reduction in heating and cooling costs. Smart thermostats learn your schedule and optimize temperature settings automatically.

Pricing & Payment

Straightforward pricing and flexible options, clear quotes, no surprises, just honest work.

  • How much does [specific service] cost?

    Every project is unique. Costs depend on scope, materials, and complexity. I provide quotes with clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

  • Do you offer payment plans?

    Payment terms are discussed for each project. For larger installations, we can discuss arrangements that work for your situation.

  • Why is your pricing competitive?

    I keep overhead low by avoiding unnecessary expenses like fancy offices and expensive marketing. Those savings go directly to you in fair pricing without sacrificing quality.

Service & Scheduling

Smart home insights to make your space more efficient, connected, and effortless to control.

Woman smiling while talking on phone, holding a mug, sitting on a yellow sofa in a well-lit living room.
  • How quickly can you respond to urgent repairs?

    For urgent repairs affecting your safety or comfort, I work to respond as quickly as possible. Call directly to discuss your situation.

  • Do I need to be home during the work?

    For most projects, yes. I'll need access to your home and may have questions during the work. We'll coordinate scheduling that works for you.

  • Do you clean up after the work is complete?

    Yes. I respect your home and keep work areas clean. I remove debris and leave your space tidy.

Okanagan Homeowner Resources

City of Kelowna

Building and permitting resources for Kelowna homeowners.

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BC Safety Authority

Information on electrical and gas safety standards in British Columbia.

FortisBC Rebates & Programs

Explore available rebates for heat pumps, furnaces, and energy-efficient upgrades.

Technical Safety BC

Regulations and safety information for electrical, gas, and technical systems.

City of West Kelowna

Building permits and inspection information for West Kelowna residents.

Simple Maintenance Tips

Filter icon with a sparkle.

HVAC Maintenance

  • Change furnace filters every 1-3 months
  • Keep outdoor AC units clear of debris
  • Schedule annual furnace tune-ups before winter
  • Clean vents and registers regularly
Black electrical panel with lightning bolt symbol and three prongs.

Electrical Safety

  • Test GFCI outlets monthly
  • Don't overload circuits or outlets
  • Replace damaged cords immediately
  • Check smoke detector batteries twice yearly
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Gas Safety

  • Know how to shut off gas in emergencies
  • Never ignore gas odors
  • Keep gas appliances properly ventilated
  • Schedule regular fireplace inspections

Signs You Need Professional Help

Electrical Issues

  • Frequent breaker trips
  • Flickering or dimming lights
  • Burning smells from outlets or switches
  • Warm electrical panels
  • Outlets that don't work

HVAC Problems:

  • Strange noises from furnace or AC
  • Uneven heating or cooling
  • Rising energy bills without explanation
  • System won't turn on or cycles frequently
  • Poor air quality or excessive dust

Gas Concerns:

  • Any gas odor (rotten egg smell)
  • Hissing sounds near gas lines
  • Yellow or orange furnace flame (should be blue)
  • Pilot lights that won't stay lit
  • Soot or carbon buildup

Don't wait with safety issues. Contact ProGrade Solutions for professional assessment and repair.

Man standing next to a furnace and boiler in a utility room. He is smiling and gesturing towards the equipment.
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Still Have Questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? I'm happy to help. Contact ProGrade Solutions to discuss your electrical, HVAC, or gas fitting questions.

Find answers to common questions about electrical systems, HVAC maintenance, and gas fitting services. ProGrade Solutions is here to help you understand your home's essential systems and make informed decisions about repairs, upgrades, and maintenance.