What to Do When Your Furnace Goes Out in Winter
Furnaces are essential for keeping homes warm and cozy during the cold winter months. Unfortunately, furnaces can break down at any time, leaving you without heat when you need it most. It can be stressful and uncomfortable if your furnace goes out in the middle of winter. But don’t panic – there are steps you can take to get your furnace up and running again. Calling for a professional emergency furnace repair should be your priority, but before you make that call, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue.
Here’s what to do when your furnace goes out in winter:
Check the Thermostat
The first thing you should do is check your thermostat. Ensure it’s set to “heat” and the temperature is high enough for the furnace to turn on. If your thermostat is battery-operated, replace the batteries to ensure it’s working properly. Sometimes, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause your furnace to stop working. If the thermostat seems to work fine, move on to the next step.
Check the Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is another common reason for a furnace to stop working. If your furnace isn’t getting power, check the circuit breaker and ensure it hasn’t been tripped. If the circuit breaker has been tripped, reset it and see if that solves the problem. If the circuit breaker keeps tripping, there may be an underlying electrical issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.
Check the Pilot Light
If you have a gas furnace, check the pilot light. If it’s out, follow the instructions in your furnace manual to relight it. If you’re unsure how to do this or if the pilot light continues to go out after being relit, call for emergency furnace repair services. It could indicate a problem with your gas supply, which can be dangerous and should only be handled by trained professionals.
Check the Air Filter
Check the air filter to see if your furnace is turning on but not blowing warm air. A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow and make it difficult for your furnace to heat your home effectively. Replace the filter if it’s dirty and see if that improves the situation. It’s also a good idea to change your air filter every 1-3 months to ensure the proper functioning of your furnace.
If none of these steps solve the problem and your furnace is still not working, it’s time to call for emergency furnace repair services. Don’t wait until regular business hours – a cold winter night is not the time to delay repairs. Contact a reputable HVAC company that offers 24/7 emergency services to get your furnace back up and running as soon as possible.
