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What To Do If Your Furnace Goes Out

January 16, 2024 | Blog

Learn What To Do If The Furnace Stops Working In Winter

Experiencing a heater breakdown during the winter can be a significant inconvenience. At Island Airco, we’re committed to helping you navigate through the discomfort and urgency of a furnace failure.

We’ve compiled a guide with tips on what to do if your system stops working in the winter. Our team is here to ensure you’re prepared to handle this situation effectively.

Immediate Steps To Take When Your Furnace Stops Working

If your heater suddenly stops working, a few steps can be taken to troubleshoot the problem. Before calling our team for assistance, check your unit for a few potential causes.

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Ensure your thermostat is set correctly. It should be set to heat mode and the temperature set higher than the current room temperature. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as an incorrect thermostat setting.

2. Inspect The Furnace Power

Check if the furnace switch is on. If it’s turned off, turn it on and wait to see if the system starts working. Check your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box for any tripped circuits or blown fuses that could be affecting the power supply.

3. Examine The Pilot Light

For older furnace models, check if the pilot light is lit. If it’s out, follow your system’s manual for safe relighting instructions. A pilot light that repeatedly goes out may indicate a deeper issue that requires our professional attention.

Signs Furnace Is Going Out

Being aware of the signs that your furnace is failing can help you prevent a complete breakdown. Here are some indicators to watch for:

  • Unusual noises — Banging, whistling or grinding can indicate mechanical problems.
  • Frequent cycling — If your furnace turns on and off more frequently than usual, it could be a sign of a malfunction.
  • Yellow pilot light — A healthy pilot light should be blue. A yellow flame can indicate a ventilation problem.
  • Decreased heating efficiency — If your unit isn’t heating as well as it used to, it could be a sign of wear or damage.

Recognizing these signs early can save you from the hassle of an unexpected system failure. Regular maintenance checks can help identify and address these issues before they escalate.

How To Keep Your House Warm When Your Furnace Breaks

In the event of a heating breakdown, keeping your home warm becomes a priority. A few effective strategies will keep your house warm and cozy when the unit breaks.

1. Use Space Heaters Safely

Space heaters can be a great temporary solution. Place them in key areas of your home, ensuring they are on a flat surface and away from flammable materials. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines to prevent any accidents.

2. Seal Drafts And Leaks

Inspect your home for drafts and leaks, especially around windows and doors. Use weather stripping, draft stoppers or heavy curtains to minimize heat loss.

3. Utilize Layered Clothing And Blankets

Dressing in warm layers and using blankets can help you retain body heat. Encourage family members to wear hats, scarves and gloves indoors. These layers will help all members of your household stay warm.

Preventative Measures For Furnace Efficiency

To avoid heater issues, it’s crucial to schedule regular maintenance with Island Airco. During our heating tune-ups, you can expect us to replace filters as needed and remain vigilant about unusual signs from your system.

Heater Repair Eureka Springs Can Count On

Dealing with a heating outage in winter requires prompt action. Island Airco is here to help ensure your unit operates efficiently during colder times of the year.

Our team of experts can provide efficient furnace repair and maintenance services. Contact us today to guarantee your comfort with our heating services!

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What Our Customers Are Saying

Will Be Using This Company Again!

They showed up on time and did a great job! Price was less then they said on the phone they thought it would be. Will be using this company again!

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Always prompt, courteous and leaves me with peace of mind. So appreciate such awesome customer service!

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Just excellent at quick service! I really appreciated the explanation of what was going on with the HVAC and why it had failed. I also really appreciated the recap, which gives me “peace of mind”

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