What to Do When Your Furnace Fails in Winter

There’s nothing worse than waking up to a freezing home in the middle of a Utah winter, only to realize that your furnace has stopped working. At Design Comfort, we understand how stressful and uncomfortable this situation can be. Whether it’s the dead of night or the coldest morning of the year, you need to know what to do to stay safe and warm while waiting for professional heating repairs. In this blog, we’ll explain basic troubleshooting steps and tips for staying warm while awaiting heating repair in Cottonwood Heights, UT.

Check for Simple Fixes Before Calling for Repairs

Before you panic, take a few minutes to check for common furnace issues that you may be able to resolve without professional help. Some problems have quick fixes that could save you time and money. Here’s what to check:

  • Thermostat Settings – Ensure your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If it runs on batteries, replace them to rule out power issues.
  • Power Supply – Sometimes, a tripped circuit breaker or an accidentally switched-off furnace power switch can be the culprit. Reset the breaker if needed.
  • Air Filter Blockage – A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to shut down. If the filter is dirty, replace it and see if your system restarts.
  • Inclement Weather: If it’s snowed heavily, ensure your intake and exhaust pipes are clear of snow. Blockages could trigger the automatic shutdown feature.

If none of these steps restore heat, it’s time to call Design Comfort for expert heating repairs.

How to Stay Warm While Waiting for Heating Repairs

If your furnace isn’t coming back on, staying warm becomes your top priority. Here are some effective ways to retain heat and keep comfortable while waiting for professional repairs:

  • Layer Up: Dressing in multiple layers will help trap body heat. Wear warm socks, hats, gloves, and thermal clothing to keep yourself warm.
    Use Space Heaters
  • Safely: If you have space heaters, use them responsibly by keeping them away from flammable materials and never leaving them unattended.
  • Gather in One Room: Choose the warmest room in your home and have everyone stay there. Close the doors and use blankets or towels to block any drafts from under doors and windows.
  • Cook and Bake: Use your oven or stovetop for cooking meals, as it will generate some heat in the kitchen.
  • Use Electric Blankets or Heating Pads: If you have electric blankets or heating pads, they can provide direct warmth while you wait for the heat to return.
  • Use a Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, use it safely to provide warmth to your home.

A furnace breakdown in winter is never convenient, but with these steps, you can troubleshoot minor issues, stay warm, and know when to seek help. To prevent unexpected breakdowns, schedule regular furnace maintenance with Design Comfort.

Facebook
X/Twitter
LinkedIn
Threads
Scroll to Top