Emergency Furnace Repair: What to Do When the Heat Goes Out

When the temperature drops and your furnace suddenly stops working, it can be a stressful and uncomfortable experience. With the winter chill setting in, having a reliable heating system is essential for your comfort and well-being. If your furnace goes out unexpectedly, it’s important to act quickly and know what steps to take before calling a professional for emergency furnace repair.

At D-N-D Services, we’ve been serving Rockwall and surrounding areas since 1997, providing heating and air conditioning services to both residential and commercial customers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when your furnace goes out, including what you can do yourself and when it’s time to call in the experts.

Check the Thermostat Settings

The first step in troubleshooting a furnace problem is to check the thermostat. Sometimes the solution is as simple as adjusting the settings. Ensure that your thermostat is set to “heat” mode and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature.

If you have a programmable thermostat, verify that it hasn’t been accidentally set to a lower temperature or a schedule that prevents it from turning on. Additionally, if your thermostat uses batteries, replace them to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

Inspect the Furnace Power Supply

If the thermostat settings are correct, the next step is to check the power supply to the furnace. Make sure that the furnace is turned on and plugged into the power source. Some furnaces have an on/off switch located on the side or near the unit. It’s possible that the switch may have been turned off by accident.

Additionally, check the circuit breaker to see if the furnace’s power has been interrupted due to a tripped breaker. If so, simply flip the breaker back to the “on” position. If the breaker continues to trip, this could indicate a deeper issue, and it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician.

Check the Furnace Air Filter

A clogged or dirty air filter can significantly reduce the efficiency of your furnace and cause it to malfunction. If your furnace isn’t producing heat, check the air filter. If it appears dirty or clogged, replace it with a clean filter. This simple maintenance step can often solve the problem and restore your furnace’s functionality.

For the long-term health of your system, it’s a good idea to replace your furnace filter regularly, ideally every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage. A clean filter allows for better airflow, ensuring your furnace operates efficiently.

Examine the Pilot Light or Electronic Ignition

If your furnace uses a pilot light, check to see if it’s lit. If the pilot light is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting it. Most modern furnaces have an electronic ignition system, so if your furnace isn’t lighting up, it could be an issue with the ignition system.

If you’re unsure of how to relight the pilot light or troubleshoot the ignition system, it’s best to contact a professional technician, as tampering with gas lines can be dangerous.

Ensure the Gas Supply is On

If your furnace is gas-powered, check the gas valve to ensure it’s turned on. Sometimes, the gas valve can accidentally get turned off, especially if maintenance or repairs have been performed recently. If the gas supply is shut off, turn it back on and wait to see if the furnace begins producing heat.

If the gas supply is on, but the furnace still isn’t working, it may indicate a more serious issue that requires the expertise of an HVAC professional.

Listen for Strange Noises

When your furnace isn’t working properly, it may produce unusual sounds like banging, rattling, or buzzing. These noises can provide clues about the issue. For example, a loud banging sound might indicate a problem with the burner, while a rattling noise could be due to a loose component or debris inside the system.

Listening carefully to these noises can help your technician diagnose the issue more efficiently when they arrive for emergency furnace repair.

Call a Professional HVAC Contractor

If you’ve gone through the above troubleshooting steps and your furnace is still not working, it’s time to call in a professional HVAC contractor. Furnace issues can be complex, and attempting to fix them yourself can be dangerous if you don’t have the necessary experience and training.

At D-N-D Services, our NATE-certified technicians are trained to handle all types of furnace issues, from minor repairs to complete system replacements. We have the tools and expertise to quickly diagnose and fix your furnace, ensuring that your home stays warm and comfortable during the winter months.

When to Call for Emergency Furnace Repair

In some cases, you may need immediate attention due to the severity of the problem. Here are some situations that require emergency furnace repair:

1. No Heat: If your furnace isn’t producing any heat despite all efforts to troubleshoot, it’s time for professional help.
2. Furnace is Leaking Gas: If you smell gas near your furnace, shut off the gas supply immediately, leave your home, and call a technician right away. A gas leak is dangerous and requires immediate attention.
3. Furnace Produces Strange Noises: If your furnace is making alarming sounds, such as banging or screeching, this could indicate a serious internal issue.

Furnace is Overheating: If your furnace is cycling on and off frequently, it could be overheating, which is often caused by a clogged air filter or a malfunctioning component.

Prevent Future Furnace Failures with Regular Maintenance

One of the best ways to avoid furnace emergencies is by scheduling regular maintenance. A seasonal check-up by a professional HVAC technician can catch minor issues before they become major problems. Regular maintenance will also ensure your furnace runs efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and prolonging the life of the system.

At D-N-D Services, we offer comprehensive HVAC maintenance services, including furnace inspections, cleaning, and tune-ups, to keep your heating system running smoothly year-round.

Conclusion

Experiencing a furnace breakdown during the coldest months of the year is never ideal, but by following these steps, you can troubleshoot the issue and determine when to call in a professional for emergency furnace repair. If your furnace still isn’t working after trying the basic troubleshooting tips, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at D-N-D Services. Our team of NATE-certified technicians is available to handle emergency furnace repairs, and we’ll work quickly to restore comfort to your home. With over 25 years of experience, you can trust us to exceed your expectations and keep your home warm throughout the winter.