Once winter is in full swing here in Ohio, having a furnace that’s effective and reliable isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity, and one that far too many people take for granted until it’s too late.
Regardless of whether a winter storm takes out our power or our furnace has some sort of breakdown, losing heat when it’s cold outside is enough to make anyone anxious.
Rest assured, however, in times like these. There are steps a homeowner can take when losing heat before having to call our team here at Springboro Heating & Cooling.
Tips for Homeowners Who’ve Lost Heat
Identifying the Problem
Check the Power
When the heat goes out and it’s because of a power outage, the first thing to do is call your power company. The sooner you call, the better. And, because some power companies first restore areas where they get the most reports, it’s a good idea to call even if your neighbors have already called. But there’s no need to call more than once.
Conversely, if your home hasn’t lost power, you should check to make sure the heating equipment still has power running to it by checking fuses and breakers. Also make sure the switch is on.
Test Your Thermostat
Once that’s complete, next you’ll want to check your system’s thermostat to make sure it’s working with power of its own, or working batteries. After that open it and clean away dust inside it before testing it by turning up the temperature a few degrees. Does the heat kick on? You can also use an outside thermometer to test its accuracy, if it seems colder than it says it is. Finally, the last step is to check the wires leading from the thermostat to your furnace to determine if any are broken. Otherwise, if you’re still having thermostat problems, give us a call.
Check Furnace Filters
Once you’ve taken those steps, next you’ll want to make sure your furnace has proper airflow. Because dirty air filters can hinder air flow and even outright block it, air filters should be checked monthly during the winter. If it’s blocked, the furnace won’t have proper air flowing through it to move the heat and allow your system to work like it should. In many furnaces, there is a safety feature that makes it shut down if it becomes too hot. In any case, if the air filter is dirty, replace it and make sure all your air registers are open and there isn’t any furniture, curtains or other items blocking airflow.
Check Your Gas Valve
If you have a gas furnace and you aren’t getting heat, check your system’s gas valve. Make sure this valve is open so it’s able to provide the fuel it needs. Additionally, you should check to make sure the gas control valve inside the furnace is open as well. If at any time you smell gas, take extreme caution. Do not turn any lights or fixtures on or off. Leave the home immediately and then use your mobile phone once outside the home (or a neighbor’s phone) to call the gas company for an emergency repair.
Need help with your furnace? Call us right away!
If you’ve lost heat in your Warren County area home this winter, or if you need a local, reputable HVAC technician to check your heating equipment when the power is restored — call Springboro Heating & Cooling today at 937-600-6834, or schedule an appointment now by clicking here!
