6 Things You Can Do If You Have a Broken Furnace in the Winter

If your furnace breaks down in the dead of winter, it can be a real nightmare. Not only will you be without heat, but you’ll also have to deal with the cold weather. Here are some tips on what to do if you have a broken furnace and waiting for a furnace repair or replacement in the Edmonton and Calgary regions during winter:

1. Layer Up

The first thing you should do is layer up your clothing. Wear a base layer of long underwear, followed by a layer of warm socks, pants, and a shirt. You can then add a sweater or jacket on top. If you have a coat, put that on as well. If you have a scarf, hat, or gloves, make sure to put those on as well.

2. Close off Any Rooms You’re Not Using

If you have a multi-room house, close off the rooms you’re not using to help contain the heat in the room you’re in. You can also close the curtains or blinds to help keep the heat in.

3. Take a Warm Shower 

If you have a working bathroom, you can take a warm shower to help yourself stay warm. Just make sure to stay in only a short time, as this can actually make you colder when you get out.

4. Move Around

If you can, try to move around periodically. This will help your body generate heat. Just make sure to do just what is necessary, as this can also make you colder.

5. Use Any Available Sources of Heat

Use any available sources of heat to help keep yourself warm. If you have a fireplace, use it. If you have a space heater, use it. Don’t use a camping stove if you don’t have one. Basically, anything that will generate heat will help.

6. Check and Troubleshoot Your Furnace

a. Check Your Thermostat First

Make sure that it is set to “heat” mode and that the temperature is turned up. If everything looks fine with the thermostat, move on to the next step.

b. Check Your Furnace

Make sure that there is the power to the furnace and that it is turned on. If you have a gas furnace, also check to make sure that the pilot light is lit.

c. Check the Air Filter

Once you have verified that the furnace is turned on and receiving power, check the air filter. A dirty furnace filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to shut down.

d. Check for Any Blown Fuses or Tripped Circuit Breakers

Check for any blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers if the air filter is clean and the furnace is still not working.

e. Call Legacy Heating and Cooling

If you have checked all of the above and the furnace still will not turn on, it is time to call a professional from Legacy Heating. This is likely a problem with the furnace itself and will require a technician to diagnose and repair it.

Conclusion

If you have a broken furnace in the dead of winter, it is important to take action immediately. Contact the professionals at Legacy to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. In the meantime, take the steps outlined in this article to keep yourself and your family warm and safe.

If you are in need of a furnace replacement in Calgary and Edmonton, reach out to us at Legacy Heating today. We are experts in HVAC systems and can help you find the best solution for your needs! Get your free Furnace Quote today!