If my furnace breaks down in the middle of winter, what would I do? It’s a scary thought, but one that is imperative that we consider. Afterall, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to be prepared.
So in today’s blog, the expert repair technicians at Action Furnace will go over our top tips for handling this potential emergency and the steps to take to get your furnace back up and running quickly. Plus we’ll offer insights on how to prevent the risk of a winter furnace breakdown all together!
Action Furnace has been the preferred choice for furnace repairs in Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer since 1975. Our technicians are simply trained better, and are always ready to take action with full stocked service trucks and the most up to date tools.
Let’s begin!
Stay Calm & Assess The Situation
The first step is to remain calm. Yes, we know this is easier said than done, but having a clear head is crucial while running through an initial checklist of potential issues.
Let’s assess the overall situation here together.
Check Your Thermostat
Ensure that the batteries are working or that it’s connected to your home’s wifi (if a smart or programmable device). Secondly, check that it’s in the correct mode. Use the switch to cycle to “heat” and then set the temperature to your desired level.
Check That Your Furnace Is Connected To Power
Your furnace, and every furnace, will have a power switch that looks very similar to a light switch on the wall near the unit. Make sure yours is switched to the on position. If it’s not, wait a couple minutes after flipping before proceeding with repairs as some older furnaces may take more time to wake up.
Inspect The Pilot Light
Next thing to check is the pilot light. There are a number of things that could affect it, including a build up of dust and dirt, a drafty mechanical room and gas supply issues. If you feel comfortable doing so, it’s typically safe enough for you to try and relight the pilot light yourself by holding down the rest button while using a lighter to reignite the flame.
However we understand that gas and flame might give many people pause, so please feel free to give our friendly team a call to relight it for you. We’ll also identify the reason it went out in the first place while we’re there.
Change The Furnace Filter
Furnace filters can easily reduce air flow and heating performance if they’re not replaced regularly. Your furnace filter can be found near the bottom of your furnace behind an access panel. Gently remove it and replace it if it’s full of dust, hair and other debris.
Most standard furnace filters last about 3 months, but it’s a good idea to get into the habit of at least checking it monthly. Keeping the furnace filter free of buildup helps protect the sensitive components of your furnace and greatly improves indoor air quality.
Check The Furnace Exhaust Vent (A Common Cause Of A Winter Furnace Breakdown)
Finally, bundle up and head outside to check if your furnace exhaust vent is clear of snow and ice build-up.
A blocked furnace vent can result in your furnace constantly cycling on and off, and even dangerous CO fumes to potentially enter your home.
Luckily cleaning is easy! Simply take a soft broom and remove the snow and ice from the rim of the exhaust vent. It’s also a good idea to take a shovel and clear some extra room beneath the vent to avoid you having to come back up again.
Call In The Professional Repair Technicians At Action Furnace
If you’ve tried everything above and there’s still no heat, it’s time to call us in to avoid being stuck in the cold for too long.
Our repair technicians are continually trained and are dedicated to providing you with the most thorough furnace repair available. Our team has seen it all, and will be able to quickly identify the underlying issue affecting your heating performance. From malfunctioning components, to connection issues, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s what you can expect from a typical service call.
Evaluation
Our experts are trained to quickly identify any heating issues and provide you with an immediate solution.
They will diagnose the problem and present you with a quote for the best repair options tailored to meet your specific heating needs.
Recommendation
Given the critical nature of furnace repair, we provide an immediate, on-site assessment of your needs. We take into account your home’s efficiency, power requirements and the specific problem to give you a complete explanation of all your options.
Finally, with our No Surprise Guarantee, the investment quoted is what you pay. No additional charges or surprises during or after your repair.
Repair
Our team is dedicated to providing you with clean, respectful, and efficient service, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life. We’ll exceed your expectations by completing your furnace repair with speed and precision. From cleaning and replacing components to de-icing your exhaust vent, we take care of your home and guarantee our workmanship.
If we haven’t met your expectations, we’ll provide you with a 1-year club membership at no additional cost.
After the repair is complete, we’ll reconnect and test your furnace to ensure it’s working correctly.
You’ll also rest easy knowing that if one of our furnace repairs should fail within the first heating season, we’ll come back and repair it again absolutely free with the Action Furnace exclusive Fixed Right Or Its Free Guarantee.
Preventative Measures To Prevent A Winter Furnace Breakdown
Prioritize Maintenance
The best way to ensure your furnace runs throughout the winter is to schedule annual maintenance from the home of the Most Thorough Tune-Up, Action Furnace. This is because a clean and well-maintained service will just simply work better.
We don’t cut corners, our industry-leading 50 point tune-up includes:
- Gas pressure checks
- Igniter performance checks
- Temperature heat rise
- Blower motor efficiency testing
- Plus a top to bottom safety check
In addition to equipment longevity, a furnace tune-up can also save you up 12% on your energy bills!
And keep your furnace running smoothly long-term with regular, pre-scheduled maintenance through Action Furnace’s Comfort Club – we’ll take the hassle out of remembering your tune-ups!
For a small monthly fee, you’ll get priority service, 50% off diagnostic fees, and 10% off future furnace repairs. Over 10,000 Albertans trust the Action Furnace Comfort Club to help maintain and even improve home comfort, join them! Chat with our team today!
Change Air Filters
To reiterate what we mentioned above, keeping a clean air filter is key to furnace performance. So set a reminder on your phone to check it monthly and replace it every 3 months.
Upgrade Your Furnace
If your furnace is older, or the heating issue is recurring, sometimes the wisest and easiest choice is to replace it.
Modern furnaces come in a variety of high-efficiency options, come with robust warranties and lower your maintenance costs.
Action Furnace’s installation process always begins with an evaluation that will ensure you get the best, appropriately sized unit for your home heating needs. We’re also proud to offer a number of workmanship and installation guarantees, so you can trust that you’re in good hands.
Armed with these tips we hope you feel more confident as you continue to navigate through winter in Alberta. If you have any other questions about furnace repair, give us a call today. Our dedicated customer service department is here to help, and our commitment to quality doesn’t end once we’ve addressed your issue. At Action Furnace we’re your trusted home comfort leader.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I repair or replace my furnace?
As your furnace gets older and repairs become more frequent, it may be time to upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Not sure if it’s the right move? Contact our Home Comfort Advisors! We’ll guide you through a detailed evaluation process and provide tailored recommendations to suit your heating needs and budget.
How much do repairs cost?
Every heating repair is unique, and the cost of fixing your furnace will largely depend on the complexity of the problem. When you choose Action Furnace for your repairs, you can feel confident knowing we’ll provide a complete overview of the work needed before getting started.
What should I do if my furnace isn’t working?
Start by checking your thermostat settings to ensure everything is in order. If the problem persists, contact the repair experts at Action Furnace. Our team is skilled at diagnosing and resolving heating issues swiftly to restore your comfort. With our Fixed Right, Or It’s Free Guarantee, you can trust that our work is reliable and your satisfaction is our priority.
There is nothing worse than waking up in the morning to a cold home, especially in the middle of an Alberta winter. So you begin to fiddle with the thermostat, only to discover that your furnace won’t stay on!
Is it a simple fix, or something bigger? Don’t worry, the repair experts at Action Furnace are here to help.
In today’s blog, we’ll go over the most common reasons your furnace keeps shutting off, and the best way to keep it from happening next year.
Our team specializes in diagnosing and repairing stubborn furnaces quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to enjoying a warm and comfortable home. Let’s begin!
Let’s Do Some Initial Troubleshooting
First, take a deep breath and do some initial troubleshooting. A lot of times, a furnace not producing heat can be caused by simple fixes you can do at home!
- Check your thermostat settings are correct and set to your desired temperature. Also, this is a good time to check the batteries, or if it’s still connected to your wifi (for smart thermostat options).
- Inspect and replace your air filter. If your filter is full to the brim with dust, air can’t flow properly, which will force your furnace to cycle on and off.
- Finally, inspect the pilot light. If it’s gone out, your furnace isn’t going to be able to generate heat. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can relight the pilot light yourself or call a professional in for guidance.
If you’ve gone through these steps and you still can’t feel any relief, then it’s time to call in the experts for a closer look.
Common Causes
Common reasons that your furnace may not be generating heat that require professional attention include:
- A faulty ignition or pilot light
- Overheating or malfunctioning components
- And ventilation issues
So what can you do about it?
Choose Action Furnace For Your Professional Repair Needs
Action Furnace is your trusted furnace repair team. No matter what you’re dealing with, from malfunctioning components, to air flow issues, to strange smells, our technicians have seen it all. Here’s what you can expect when you call us in to examine your uncooperative furnace:
Evaluation
When you schedule a furnace repair, a skilled heating professional will visit your home to assess and identify the problem.
As part of the inspection, they will thoroughly examine your furnace, checking for any signs of damage and promptly offering the most effective repair solutions.
Afterward, they will provide a detailed, customized quote designed to address your specific heating requirements.
Recommendation
Due to the severity of furnace repair, we guarantee to have your recommendations to you immediately following your evaluation. That’s right, on the spot! No more waiting around.
All your recommendations will be thoroughly explained and consider your home’s efficiency, power needs and the complexity of the issue at hand.
Finally, with our No Surprise Guarantee, the investment quoted is what you pay. No additional charges or surprises during or after your repair.
Repair
No matter the time frame, our team is dedicated to providing you clean and respectful service and will complete your repair with minimal interruption to your day to day life.
Whether it’s cleaning and replacing components, or de-icing your exhaust vent, our repair team is the best in skill, attitude and workmanship. They will care for your home and complete the job with speed and precision. If we haven’t met your expectations, we’ll provide you with a 1 year club membership at no additional cost.
Once your furnace repair is complete, your technician will reconnect and troubleshoot your furnace to ensure it’s running properly.
You’ll also rest easy knowing that if one of our furnace repairs should fail within the first heating season, we’ll come back and repair it again absolutely free. We’ll also return 100% of your original investment because at Action Furnace, our repairs are always Fixed Right Or It’s Free!
And Prevent Future Repairs With The Total Comfort Club
Once your furnace is back up and running, keep it that way with prescheduled, regular maintenance from Action Furnace’s Comfort Club, where we help make remembering tune-ups just a little bit easier!
For one low monthly price you’ll enjoy front of the line, priority service, 50% off diagnostic fees and 10% off any future repairs. Talk to your technician to learn more, or call our friendly customer service team!
A furnace that won’t stay on can seem like the end of the world, but by recognizing and addressing issues early, and prioritizing annual maintenance you can keep your home warm, safe and cozy this season and beyond! Don’t let a finicky furnace ruin your winter, contact Action Furnace today and reclaim your warmth!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my furnace needs repair?
The most common signs your furnace is in need of repair include:
- Strange, loud noises coming from your furnace
- Strange smells
- A sudden increase in energy bills
- Trouble maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home.
If you notice any one (or many) of these issues, give our experienced furnace repair technicians a call today!
Should I repair or replace my furnace?
As furnace’s age and the frequency of repairs increases, it’s usually time to replace your furnace for a newer, more efficient model. If you’re unsure, give our Home Comfort Advisors a call, we’ll walk you through our comprehensive evaluation process and give you the best recommendations for your heating needs and budget.
How much do repairs cost?
No heating repair is the same and the cost to repair your furnace will greatly depend on the severity of the issue. But when you trust Action Furnace for your repairs, you can rest assured that you’ll be fully briefed on the scope of work before any repairs are underway.
What should I do if my furnace isn’t working?
The first step should always be to check your thermostat settings. If all looks good, give the repair team at Action Furnace a call. We’re trained to quickly identify and address the issue to get your heat back up and running. Plus we’re proud to offer our exclusive Fixed Right, Or It’s Free Guarantee.
Winter is back and with a vengeance. With the abnormally warm weather we’ve had up until now, it’s easy to let furnace maintenance slip to the wayside. And as a result, you might find yourself in need of some emergency repairs!
In today’s blog, we’ll explore common issues that you need to address right away, to keep you and your home not only comfortable this winter, but also safe.
But there’s no need to stress, if you do find yourself in need of an emergency furnace repair, trust the experienced team at Action Furnace. Our Comfort Advisors will identify the source of the issue, whether it’s with the thermostat, ducts, or furnace itself, and perform the necessary repairs or upgrades to improve the warmth and quality of the air inside your home before the next cold snap!
How To Know If Your Furnace May Need A Repair
Strange Noises
If you’re hearing strange noises like banging, whistling, grinding, or rattling this could be a sign that your furnace needs immediate attention. Each of these sounds indicate a different issue, so listen carefully because ignoring these sounds and hoping they go away can result in serious damage to your furnace.
Banging or popping sounds could mean a small explosion has occurred in your furnace due to a dirty burner, whistling or grinding could indicate a blower motor malfunction, and rattling usually means something has come loose within the confines of the outer walls of the furnace.
If you’re experiencing one or more of these noises, give the experienced team at Action Furnace a call right away so we can quickly identify and fix the problem.
Little to No Heat
Insufficient heating is one of the most common furnace issues, and in these harsh negative temperatures uneven heating throughout your home can cause property damage and even pose a health risk to you and your family due to decreased air quality.
Little to no heat throughout your home could point to a number of issues, from a major clog in your duct work, to a problem with your thermostat, or an issue with your furnace’s pilot light, so make sure to call the experts at Action Furnace right away at the first sign of a chilly room or when your vents start blowing cold air.
Frequent Cycling
Another common furnace issue is the frequent cycling of the unit on and off. Thankfully this can be an easy fix, but if ignored can cause serious harm to your furnace, and with this weather, you want the most reliable heating you can get!
Furnace cycling is typically caused by a clogged furnace filter. When dirt, dust, pet hair and other contaminants start to accumulate in the filter, air can no longer flow freely, causing the blower to work harder than it needs to. When the blower overheats, the furnace turns off.
Frequent cycling can also be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat that is unable to properly read the heat, or lack thereof, in the house.
If your furnace is cycling on and off more than 5-8 times per hour, give Action Furnace a call right away. We’ll quickly clean out the blower fan, replace your furnace filter and check your thermostat, getting you back up and running, fast.
Strange Odours
Strange odours being emitted from your furnace are another issue that shouldn’t be ignored in the winter, or at all. As with strange sounds, persistent odours are caused by issues that can result in serious damage to your furnace, or can even indicate something more dangerous…a gas leak.
If you’re smelling strong sulfur or rotten eggs, this may mean you have a natural gas leak. The best thing to do is to open all doors and windows, and get out of your house immediately. After calling your utility company, the experienced technicians at Action Furnace will come out and quickly identify the cause of the leak and conduct an immediate repair.
Burning odours coming from your furnace typically point to one or more components of your furnace overheating due to excess use. Our team is trained to quickly identify these components and get them repaired quickly so they can function at their most efficient.
Another common issue is mold or mildew growth which can smell musty and damp. Mold growth occurs when there are high condensation levels in your home, or if your ducts haven’t been cleaned in awhile. The appearance of mold can greatly affect your health, causing asthma and other lung issues. Luckily, our technicians can handle both issues relatively quickly to mitigate any potential health risks.
Be Proactive!
Don’t let emergency furnace issues leave you in the cold. Preventative, annual maintenance is the best way to ensure a well-running furnace this winter.
That’s why Action Furnace is proud to offer our Furnace Comfort Club membership. For a low monthly fee, you’ll receive our annual WOW! tune-up and duct cleaning with unlimited vents and an annual supply of standard furnace filters. Plus, enjoy front-of-the-line priority service, and 10% off future repairs. Contact us today to learn more!
Why Choose Action Furnace For Your Emergency Furnace Repairs
DIY repairs can be dangerous and can end up doing more harm than good. So when it comes to emergency furnace repair, trust the professionals at Action Furnace.
Action Furnace is proud to offer same-day, comprehensive emergency services, including diagnostics, repairs, replacements, and maintenance for all types of furnace problems. Our heating professionals can easily identify the issue saving you from more costly repairs down the road, or a whole new furnace install.
Our furnace technicians are trained internally and through several elite courses and apprenticeship programs to make sure we’re always able to provide industry-standard assistance. We follow all applicable regulations and use the newest, most trusted equipment available to provide top-quality service every time we’re called. Plus your furnace repair is always Fixed Right or It’s Free!
Stay Safe and Warm
Furnace emergencies are not only inconvenient, but can also be dangerous. Recognizing the signs of an emergency and understanding the importance of professional intervention can save you from unnecessary risks and expenses when you need to heat your living space. When you experience issues like any of the ones listed above, don’t hesitate to call the team at Action Furnace. Our team is equipped and ready to handle all your emergency furnace repairs so that you can keep your home warm and safe. Contact us today!
