Steps to Take When Your Furnace Breaks Down in the Middle of Winter

Steps to Take When Your Furnace Breaks Down in the Middle of Winter

Author: Archie Horn & Son Ltd. | | Categories: Furnace Maintenance , HVAC Maintenance

Blog by Archie Horn & Son Ltd.

Winter can be a beautiful season, but when your furnace breaks down in the middle of it, it quickly turns into a chilling nightmare. In this blog, we'll guide you through the steps to take when your furnace unexpectedly stops working during those frosty winter days. It's essential to act swiftly and smartly to ensure your family's comfort and safety.

Diagnose Common Furnace Problems in Winter:

Thermostat and Power Checks: Start by examining your thermostat settings to ensure they are correctly set to your desired winter temperature. Also, inspect the circuit breaker to make sure it hasn't tripped, cutting off power to the furnace.
Furnace Filter Inspection: Check the condition of your furnace filter. A dirty or clogged filter can obstruct airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and less efficiently. Replace it if necessary.

Prioritize Safety During a Winter Furnace Breakdown:

Gas Leak Concerns: If you detect the smell of natural gas, it's crucial to prioritize safety above all else. Evacuate your home immediately and contact your gas company or emergency services.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection: Carbon monoxide is a silent and deadly threat. Install CO detectors in your home, and if one goes off or you suspect a CO leak, leave your home and call 911 immediately.

Swiftly Reach Out to Professional Furnace Repair Services:

Proactive Communication: In the midst of winter, many people may experience furnace breakdowns. So, as soon as you notice a problem you can't fix yourself, contact a professional HVAC technician to schedule a repair.

Expert Diagnosis and Repair: These specialists have the expertise to identify the root cause of furnace issues and perform the necessary repairs to get your heating system back up and running during the winter season.

Utilize Alternative Heating Sources in Winter:

Electric Space Heaters: In the absence of a functioning furnace, electric space heaters can provide localized warmth to specific rooms. Ensure they are used safely, keeping them away from flammable materials and not leaving them unattended.

Additional Winter Comfort Measures: Consider using heated blankets, extra layers of clothing, and thermal curtains to conserve heat and stay comfortable while waiting for furnace repairs.

Preventing Future Winter Furnace Breakdowns with Regular Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance: After your furnace is repaired, schedule regular maintenance appointments to prevent future breakdowns. Routine maintenance can identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring your furnace operates efficiently and reliably throughout the winter.
Maintaining Efficiency: Well-maintained furnaces not only prevent breakdowns but also operate more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and extending the lifespan of your heating system.


When your furnace breaks down during winter, immediate professional assistance is crucial. Our team of experts is available 24/7 to address your furnace emergencies. We'll get your heating system back up and running in no time, ensuring your family's warmth and safety.

Get in touch with Archie Horn & Son Ltd today!
To learn more about the services we offer, please check out our website by clicking here. To contact us, please click here or call us at (905) 318-5020



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