What To Do If The Heat Goes Out

When winter temperatures drop, the last thing you want is for your heating system to fail. Unfortunately, heating emergencies can happen at the worst times, leaving you scrambling to stay warm and safe. If you find yourself without heat, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent discomfort and potential health risks. Here’s what to do if the heat goes out and how to restore warmth to your home.

Check Your Thermostat and Power Supply

Before assuming the worst, start with the basics. Sometimes, a simple issue with your thermostat or power supply can be the reason your furnace is not working.

• Adjust the thermostat – Make sure it’s set to “heat” mode and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, check the settings and battery power.
• Inspect the circuit breaker – A tripped breaker could be preventing your heating system from running. Reset it if necessary and see if the heat turns back on.
• Ensure the furnace switch is on – Many furnaces have a switch that looks like a light switch, usually located nearby. Make sure it’s in the “on” position.

If your heating system still isn’t working, it may be time to troubleshoot further or call for professional heating repair.

Check Your Furnace and Pilot Light

If you rely on a gas furnace, a common issue could be the pilot light. If your furnace stopped working, take these steps:

• Look for error codes – Many modern furnaces have a small window where you can see a flashing LED light. The pattern may indicate a specific problem.
• Relight the pilot light – If you have an older furnace with a standing pilot light, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it safely.
• Check for gas supply issues – If other gas appliances in your home aren’t working, there could be a supply issue. Contact your gas provider if needed.

If your furnace still isn’t turning on, a furnace repair professional can diagnose and fix the problem.

Inspect Your Air Filters and Vents

A clogged air filter can cause your emergency heater to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. To ensure proper airflow:

• Replace the air filter – A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and potentially causing it to fail.
• Clear any blocked vents – Make sure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking vents, preventing warm air from circulating properly.

Try Alternative Heating Sources

If your heat is out for an extended period, you’ll need to stay warm until emergency heating repairs can be completed. Here are a few safe ways to maintain warmth:

• Use space heaters cautiously – Only use certified heaters, keep them away from flammable objects, and never leave them unattended.
• Bundle up in layers – Wear thermal clothing, socks, and hats to trap body heat.
• Close off unused rooms – Focus on keeping one or two rooms warm by shutting doors and using blankets or towels to seal drafts.
• Use your fireplace – If you have a working fireplace, it can provide temporary warmth while you wait for repairs.

Be Prepared for Freezing Conditions

During extreme weather events like a winter storm, losing heat can lead to additional problems, including frozen pipes. Take steps to protect your home:

• Let faucets drip – Running a slow stream of water can prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting.
• Insulate windows and doors – Use towels or blankets to block drafts and keep the warmth inside.
• Stay hydrated and eat warm foods – Hot beverages and soups can help maintain your body temperature.

If your heat goes out during freezing rain or heavy snow, it’s best to seek shelter elsewhere if indoor temperatures drop too low.

When to Call for Emergency Heat Repair

If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps above and your furnace is not working, it’s time to call a professional. Here are signs you need urgent emergency heating services:

• Your furnace won’t turn on at all – If there’s no response after checking power, thermostat, and pilot light, a technician should inspect it.
• Strange noises or smells – Banging, screeching, or a burning odor could indicate a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
• Repeated system failures – If your heating system keeps shutting off, it could be a sign of an underlying problem.
• Carbon monoxide detector alert – If your CO detector goes off, evacuate immediately and call emergency services before addressing the furnace issue.

Stay Warm with Reliable Heating Repair Services

No one wants to deal with a heating failure in the middle of winter, but knowing what to do if the heat goes out can help you stay safe and comfortable. If your system isn’t working despite your troubleshooting efforts, professional repair is the best solution.

At Blue Bear Plumbing, Heating & Air, we provide expert furnace repair and emergency heat services to restore warmth to your home quickly. Don’t risk being left in the cold—contact our team today for fast, reliable heating repair services!