A sudden furnace breakdown in the middle of a Canadian winter can be stressful, especially when temperatures drop and your home starts to feel uncomfortably cold. The good news is that there are a few practical steps you can take before calling for professional help to stay safe and warm.
At A1 Air Conditioning & Heating, we have been helping families across the GTA for over 55 years, and we know how to handle these situations quickly and safely. Here is a homeowner-friendly guide to get you through a heating emergency.
1. Check Your Thermostat
Before assuming the furnace has failed, confirm that your thermostat is set correctly. Switch it to “heat” mode and increase the temperature a few degrees above the current room temperature. Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as dead batteries or incorrect settings.
2. Inspect Your Furnace Filter
A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause your furnace to shut down unexpectedly. Remove the filter and check for dust buildup. If it looks dirty, replace it immediately to help restore proper airflow and reduce strain on your system.
3. Make Sure the Power Supply Is On
Your furnace needs electricity to operate, even if it runs on gas. Check your circuit breaker to ensure the furnace switch has not tripped. If you find the breaker in the “off” or tripped position, switch it back on once. If it trips again, call a professional rather than trying to fix it yourself.
4. Inspect the Furnace Switch
Most furnaces have a dedicated power switch, often located nearby. Make sure it is in the “on” position. This switch looks like a regular light switch, so it is common for the switch to be accidentally turned off during other cleaning or maintenance.
5. Keep Warm While You Wait
If your furnace is not working and you are waiting for help, take steps to stay warm and safe:
- Close doors to unused rooms to contain heat
- Use extra blankets, layered clothing, and cozy socks
- Keep curtains closed at night to reduce heat loss
- Avoid using gas stoves or ovens for heating, as this can be dangerous
6. Call the Professionals
If these quick checks do not solve the problem, it is time to call in an expert. At A1 Air Conditioning & Heating, our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair heating issues efficiently and safely. We offer fast, reliable service to help restore your comfort as quickly as possible.
How A1 Air Conditioning & Heating Can Help
Our team provides:
- 24/7 emergency heating service when your furnace stops working
- Expert diagnostics to find the problem fast
- Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
- Trusted solutions from a family-owned company serving the GTA for over five decades
Whether it is a small repair or a complete furnace replacement, our priority is keeping your family warm and safe.
