What Should I Do if My Heater Breaks Down Suddenly?

As the temperatures drop, the importance of having a fully functioning heater becomes apparent. No one likes to be left shivering in their own home or office when their heater breaks down. While it may be tempting to simply panic and call a professional, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot your heating system and potentially fix it yourself. Below, we'll cover what you should do if you suddenly find that your heater has stopped working:

• Check your thermostat: The first thing you should do when your heater breaks down is to check the thermostat. Make sure it's set to "heat" and that the temperature is set to a temperature higher than the current room temperature. If the thermostat is not working correctly, try replacing the batteries. Sometimes, a malfunctioning thermostat can be the cause of a heating system failure.
• Inspect your furnace: If you have a furnace, check to see if it’s on. If it's not, try to light the pilot light. For electric furnaces, check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. Another issue could stem from a dirty air filter, which can cause a furnace to not function correctly. Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to overheat and shut off.
• Check for gas leaks: If you smell gas, it's important to evacuate your home or business immediately and contact your local gas company. Even a small gas leak can be extremely dangerous. If you're unsure if there is a gas leak or not, use a gas leak detector to ensure safety. Do not try to troubleshoot the heater in this situation.
• Look at your ductwork: If your heater blows warm air, but it doesn't seem to be enough to heat up the room, the issue may be with your ductwork. Check your ducts for any blockages, gaps, or leaks. Poorly insulated ductwork can lead to heat loss, which means less warm air arrives at the desired location. If you spot a damaged duct, have it repaired or replaced by a professional.
• Contact a professional: Finally, if none of the above troubleshooting tips fix your heating issue, it's time to contact a licensed HVAC professional. Heating systems can be complicated, and it's easy to cause more damage than good when dealing with them without proper training. To avoid costly errors and endangering yourself or others, reach out to a qualified HVAC technician. They will diagnose and repair any issue your heating system may be experiencing.