Furnace Replacement: Steps to Take When Your Furnace Quits Working
Most of the time we stay attuned to the needs of our home since the residential property is the biggest single financial investment that most people make during their lifetime. Homeowners are often aware of simple tasks, such as lawn care and gutter cleaning, and should be aware of larger tasks, such as preparing for roof or flooring replacement. Losing your furnace during the heating season is an example of a very jarring emergency that might catch a homeowner unaware. What should you do if your furnace quits when you need it the most?
First, check the obvious. Even if you know nothing about how your furnace works, there are a few simple inspections that you can restart your heating system.
Check the circuit breaker. In your electric service panel, you should find a circuit labeled Furnace or HVAC. If the circuit is tripped, flip it completely OFF and then to the On position. Expect the furnace to take a few minutes to restart. If the furnace does not restart or the circuit will not remain in the ON position, call a repair technician.
Check the gas valve. If your system is natural gas or propane-fueled, check the fuel supply. Is the tank empty? Is the gas valve in the OFF position? Hint: the valve should align with the supply tubing.
Check the thermostat. The thermostat is a sensor/switch, that calls for heat and turns the furnace on. For any number of reasons, the thermostat can be switched OFF or to the COOL position.
All of these are simple fixes that might get your furnace running again. If none of this works, here are two further steps to take simultaneously.
Stay warm. If the furnace did not restart with easy fixes, make sure that your family stays healthy and as comfortable as possible.
Take practical steps, such as layering clothes and staying active. When it is time to rest, bundle up with a throw or blanket. Electric blankets or heating pads can also provide comfort.
Use alternative heat sources, such as a fireplace or electric space heaters. Do not use the range or oven as a heat source; neither electric nor gas-powered ranges should be used for heat.
Keep the existing heat inside as much as possible by keeping doors and windows closed. Find ways to keep your water supply above freezing.
Call an HVAC technician for repairs. When you call, give as much information as possible—did the furnace gradually lose power or stop abruptly? They will recognize your emergencies but might not be able to arrive immediately, so be prepared to Stay Warm. What can you expect from your repair visit?
A technician will first assess your system, checking each component to determine the problem.
The technician will determine the labor and parts necessary to restart your furnace. You will receive upfront pricing to keep you aware of the need.
Depending upon the availability of parts and available labor, the repairs will be made as soon as possible—often on the same day.
What happens if you need to replace your furnace? That might happen. That usually happens when:
The system is very older than 15 to 20 years and cannot efficiently function.
The cost of repairs is very expensive. Replacing components might approach the cost of replacement.
Catastrophic failure might mandate a replacement.
If replacement is required, your HVAC provider will work with you and your budget to restore heat as soon as possible. In the meantime, excel at keeping your family warm, as mentioned above.
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