During the colder months, the last thing you want is for the furnace to stop working. Unfortunately, this can happen at the worst times and can turn the situation from inconvenient to dangerous. You will want to act quickly to keep you and your home safe. Let’s discuss a few tips that can help when your furnace stops working.
Assess the Situation
Before you panic, you will want to see what is happening with the unit. Sometimes, it has stopped completely; other times, it’s just not operating efficiently. With a quick look, you can determine whether it is a minor issue or a major system failure requiring professional assistance.
Along with that, you need to check the thermostat. Make sure that it is set to “heat” and that the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature. Many times, dead batteries or incorrect programming can be the root cause of the problem.
If your furnace has power, you may want to inspect the breaker box for tripped circuits or blown fuses. When there is no power, then the furnace will not function. By resetting the circuit, you can quickly resolve the issue.
When checking out the furnace, always listen with your ears. Unusual noises like banging, clicking, or whistling may provide clues about the issue. These sounds often indicate mechanical problems or blockages.
Stay Safe
When the furnace shuts down, it can create a hazardous situation for you and your family. You will want to make sure that the home is safe. Issues like gas or carbon monoxide leaks could cause harm or even death.
If you suspect a gas leak or notice a burning smell, you’ll want to shut off the furnace immediately using the power switch or gas valve. Make sure to avoid creating sparks. Even turning on lights or appliances can be dangerous when a room is filled with gas. You will want to evacuate the area immediately.
Carbon monoxide is dangerous, and it’s known as a silent killer. Hopefully, your home has a carbon monoxide detector. If it does, make sure to check its readings. High levels of carbon monoxide necessitate immediate evacuation and emergency services. Never stay in a home with high levels of this gas.
Before you leave your home, always open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, especially if there’s a possibility of gas or carbon monoxide leaks.
Look for Quick Fixes
Once you have ensured there’s no safety risk, see if you can resolve minor problems. Sometimes, small issues prevent your furnace from working.
If you have a gas furnace, you can check the pilot light. A light that is out or weak may need relighting. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For electric ignition systems, any faults may need a professional inspection.
Often, a clogged air filter could be the culprit of the problems. When it’s dirty, it can block airflow. In turn, the furnace can overheat and shut down. If you replace the dirty filter, it could restore functionality.
Check the exhaust vents and air intake both indoors and outdoors. Snow, debris, or nests can block airflow. As a result, that can trigger safety shut-offs in modern furnaces.
Don’t forget about the blower motor. A non-functioning unit may cause the furnace to overheat. Look for signs of wear or damage, and listen for humming or grinding noises.
Know When to Call a Professional Technician
If your furnace remains non-operational after basic troubleshooting, it’s time to call a licensed HVAC technician. You will need a professional for mechanical failures, electrical issues, or gas line problems.
When you call, provide as many details as possible. Make sure to explain the symptoms you’ve observed, such as noises, smells, or error codes displayed on the furnace. With that information, a technician can diagnose the problem.
Sometimes, you may need to schedule an emergency visit. Most HVAC companies offer these services. While this may cost more, you can make sure your home remains safe and warm.
Keep Warm
Most of the time, the furnace may stop in the middle of a cold spell. In these cases, you can take a few steps to keep your home warm and comfortable. First, you will want to close doors to unused rooms. With that, you can focus on heating your home’s most frequently occupied areas.
Make sure to be careful with alternative heat sources. Portable space heaters, electric blankets, or fireplaces can provide temporary warmth. However, all safety guidelines should be followed to avoid fire hazards.
You may also want to wear warm clothing, use extra blankets, and drink hot beverages to maintain body heat. If the indoor temperature drops, let your faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. You don’t want to have plumbing issues on top of a furnace problem.
Understand Your Furnace Warranties and Insurance
As you wait for the technician, review your furnace’s warranty and home insurance policy. This can save time and money during a breakdown.
Make sure to see whether your furnace is still under warranty. Sometimes, manufacturers cover parts and labor for a specific time. However, these policies are usually only valid if the unit is regularly maintained.
Also, check with your homeowner’s insurance if you don’t have a valid warranty. Some policies cover furnace-related damages, such as pipe bursts caused by freezing temperatures.
Consider Replacing Your Furnace
Sometimes, repairing a furnace is no longer cost-effective. With that, you might have to decide to install a new unit. If your furnace is over 15 years old, it could be time to look for a more modern system.
Along with that, compare the repair and replacement costs. If those costs exceed 50% of the furnace’s value, replacement is often the better investment. For those dealing with frequent breakdowns, rising energy bills, and uneven heating, these are all signs that your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan. A newer system can better heat your home and save money on your energy bills.
Plan for the Future
If you want to prevent issues with your furnace, you should keep up with regular maintenance. When you schedule this service, a technician will inspect all parts of the system. They will refill your system’s fluid, change the filter, and look for any issues that can leave you in the cold. While this doesn’t help when your furnace has failed, it’s something to think about to prevent any future problems.
At TCS Heating and Air Conditioning, we take pride in being the go-to provider of trustworthy furnace repair services in the New Britain community. Our commitment to delivering reliable, efficient, and professional solutions ensures your home stays comfortable, no matter the season. Along with helping with heating and cooling, we can also assist with mini-split systems, boilers, and indoor air quality systems.
Whether you’re dealing with uneven heating, strange noises, or complete system failure, we’re here to help. Call us today to schedule your appointment for heating repair.
