A heating system failure can be stressful, especially during colder months. If your heat stops working, follow these steps to protect your home, your family, and your comfort while determining whether professional help is needed.
When your heating system stops working, it can quickly turn a comfortable home into a stressful situation—especially during the colder months. A lack of heat isn’t just inconvenient; it can put your family’s safety, health, and property at risk. Knowing what steps to take right away can help you stay safe, prevent further damage, and get your heating system back up and running as quickly as possible. This guide walks you through what to do if the heating is not working in your home and when it’s time to call a professional.
Call (856) 429-7979Put Safety First
Your safety should always come before troubleshooting.
- Do not attempt DIY furnace or electrical repairs unless you are properly trained. Furnaces involve gas, electricity, and combustion, all of which can be dangerous if handled incorrectly.
- Check your carbon monoxide detector. Make sure it has working batteries and is functioning properly. If it goes off, leave the home immediately and contact a professional heating technician for guidance.
- Look for signs of water damage. If you notice standing water or suspect burst pipes, avoid contact with electrical components. Shut off the home’s water supply and call a professional for assistance.
- Use safe heat sources only. If your heating system isn’t working, ensure your family stays warm using approved, properly functioning heaters. Never use old, damaged, or malfunctioning space heaters, as they increase the risk of fire, explosion, or toxic fumes.
Check the Thermostat
Sometimes the problem is simple.
- Confirm the thermostat is set to “heat, not “cool.”
- Make sure the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature.
- If the thermostat is unresponsive or inaccurate, damaged wiring or internal defects may be preventing it from signaling the furnace properly.
A faulty thermostat can prevent your heating system from turning on even when your home is cold.
Check for Airflow at the Vents
Forced-air heating systems rely on steady airflow to distribute warm air throughout your home.
- Place your hand near supply vents to see if warm air is coming through.
- If the furnace is running but no air is moving, a failed blower motor may be the issue.
- Blocked or damaged ductwork can also prevent heat from reaching certain rooms.
Replace Dirty Furnace Air Filters
Clogged air filters are a common—and often overlooked—cause of heating problems.
- Dirty filters restrict airflow, which can interfere with proper combustion.
- Poor combustion can lead to soot buildup, reduced indoor air quality, system damage, and even fire hazards.
- Replacing filters regularly helps your furnace operate safely and efficiently.
Check for Exhaust or Vent Obstructions
Your furnace needs clear pathways for air intake and exhaust.
- Look for debris, plant growth, or signs of animal nesting around the chimney or exhaust pipes.
- Blocked exhaust prevents combustion gases from escaping, which can shut down the furnace or create dangerous conditions.
- Clear visible obstructions safely, but contact a professional if the blockage is extensive or difficult to access.
Check Power to the Heating System
Even gas furnaces rely on electricity to operate safely.
- Check whether other electrical fixtures in your home are working.
- Inspect the circuit breaker for tripped switches.
- If a breaker has tripped, you can reset it once, but do so cautiously. Repeated tripping may indicate an electrical fault within the furnace.
If you suspect an electrical issue, stop troubleshooting and call a professional immediately.
Inspect the Pilot Light
The pilot light ignites the gas that produces heat.
- If the pilot light is out or won’t stay lit, the furnace will not heat your home.
- Common causes include a dirty flame sensor or a failing pilot assembly.
- Never attempt to relight the pilot while the furnace is running.
Persistent pilot light issues should always be handled by a trained technician.
Call for 24/7 Emergency Heating Service
A heating failure is more than an inconvenience; it’s an emergency.
- Cold temperatures can lead to frozen or burst pipes, causing expensive water damage.
- Infants, seniors, and people with health conditions are especially vulnerable to cold indoor temperatures.
- For businesses, lack of heat can drive customers away and harm your reputation.
Reliable heating companies provide emergency service day or night, ensuring help is available when it matters most.
Call the Professionals at Davis Heating & Air
A sudden loss of heat can be overwhelming, especially during winter or the holidays. The team at Davis Heating & Air is committed to fast, reliable service and customer satisfaction you can trust.
We don’t just restore your heat—we help you plan for the future. Whether you need repairs, a system upgrade, or advice on maintaining an energy-efficient furnace, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If your heating is not working, don’t put your family at risk. For heater repair, HVAC service, system replacement, or emergency heating assistance, contact Davis Heating & Air today.
Call (856) 429-7979
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