What to Do When Your Heating System Breaks Down

Throughout the winter season, your heating system becomes your dependable companion, diligently ensuring warmth and comfort for you and your cherished ones inside the cozy confines of your home. Unfortunately, things can sometimes go wrong, causing your heating system to break down. Not only can this be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, but it can also be dangerous if not addressed quickly. 

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Before you start worrying and getting anxious, assess the situation calmly. Try to identify the problem, for example, if you feel no heat or if you hear strange noises coming from the system. If the problem is something minor, you may have the ability to fix it yourself, but otherwise, it may require professional help. If you detect the smell of gas, it's important to promptly shut off the heating system. This odor could indicate a potential gas leak, which necessitates immediate action.

Step 2: Call a Professional

If you are unable to fix the problem on your own, it's time to call a professional. Reach out to your HVAC technician, who will be trained and qualified to assess the problem and provide a solution. Before calling, ensure that you have the brand, type, and model number of your heating system, which will help the professional with their diagnosis and repairs.

Step 3: Stay Safe

While you wait for the professional to arrive, make sure that you and your loved ones are kept safe. If the temperatures drop too low and you have no heat, keep warm by layering up with blankets and clothing. If you have a fireplace, use it safely and ensure that it is attended to at all times. Keep away from space heaters, as they can be dangerous if not handled correctly.

Step 4: Maintenance and Regular Service

The best way to prevent heating system breakdowns in the future is through regular maintenance and servicing by qualified HVAC professionals. Maintenance could include cleaning parts, lubricating bearings, and changing filters. With regular maintenance, costly repairs and replacement of parts will be avoided in the future.

No homeowner desires the unfortunate occurrence of a malfunctioning heating system, but such incidents can befall anyone. By following these four steps, you can stay calm, call a professional, stay safe, and implement regular maintenance to reduce the chance of future breakdowns. Remember, if you do experience a breakdown, don't panic and get help straight away. 

For more information on preventative HVAC maintenance, contact a professional near you.