A sudden breakdown of your heating system during the cold winter months can be a distressing experience. It’s a situation that nobody wants to face, but being prepared and knowing what to do can help you stay warm and safe when the unexpected occurs. Today, we at Absolute P&M Services would like to share and guide you through the essential steps to take when your heating system breaks down.

What to Do if Your Furnace Breaks Down?

1) Stay Calm: The first and most crucial step is to remain calm. Panicking won’t help the situation, and it’s essential to think clearly to resolve the issue. Take a deep breath and stay focused on the following steps.
2) Check the Thermostat: Before assuming there’s a major problem, verify if the issue is with the thermostat. Sometimes, the heating system may stop working due to a simple thermostat malfunction. Ensure it’s set to the desired temperature and is functioning correctly.
3) Inspect the Circuit Breaker: Another common reason for heating system failure can be a tripped circuit breaker. Check your electrical panel and see if the breaker for your heating system is in the “off” position. If so, reset it to see if that resolves the issue.
4) Change the Air Filter: A clogged or dirty air filter can cause your heating system to work less efficiently or shut down. Regularly changing or cleaning your air filter can prevent such problems. If your filter is dirty, replace it and see if the system starts working again.
5) Fuel Supply Check: If you have an oil or gas heating system, ensure that there’s a sufficient supply of fuel. Running out of fuel can cause your heating system to stop working. Schedule regular fuel deliveries or refill the tank if it’s empty.
6) Inspect Vents and Ducts: Blocked or obstructed vents and ducts can impede the flow of warm air. Make sure there are no objects or debris blocking them. Clearing the vents and ducts may resolve the issue.
7) Contact a Professional: If you’ve checked all the above steps and your heating system is still not functioning, it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician. Attempting to fix complex heating system issues without the necessary expertise can lead to further problems or safety hazards.
8) Safety First: While waiting for the technician to arrive, ensure your safety. If you have alternative heating sources like space heaters, use them to stay warm. Ensure your carbon monoxide detector is functioning correctly to avoid any gas-related safety hazards.
9) Preventive Measures: Once your heating system is repaired and operational, consider scheduling regular maintenance to prevent future breakdowns. Professional maintenance can identify and fix potential issues before they become emergencies.
10) Emergency Heating Backup: As a proactive measure, consider installing an emergency heating backup system, like a portable electric heater or a generator. This can provide temporary heat during system failures while you wait for repairs.

Furnace Heating Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas

Knowing what to do when your heating system breaks down is crucial for your comfort and safety during the cold winter months. While you can take some initial troubleshooting steps, remember that professional help may be necessary to address complex issues. Regular maintenance and preparedness can also go a long way in preventing heating system emergencies in the first place. Stay warm and stay safe. Contact Absolute P&M Services for your heating services to ensure quality.