Things to Check During a Heating Emergency

A heating emergency can be stressful, especially during a cold Merrimack Valley or North Shore winter when temperatures drop, and your home becomes uncomfortable quickly. Before calling for emergency service, there are a few basic things you can check on your own. Taking a few minutes to go through these steps may help you restore heat and avoid an unnecessary service call.

Check the Thermostat First

It sounds simple, but thermostats are one of the most common sources of heating problems during emergencies. Many heating systems count on the thermostat to communicate when to turn on and off, so even a small error can prevent your system from running.

• First, make sure your thermostat is set to ‘Heat.‘ It’s easy to accidentally switch it to ‘Cool‘ or ‘Off.’
• Next, check that the set temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Try turning the temperature up a few degrees to see if your heat turns on.
• If your thermostat uses batteries, replace them if you haven’t done so recently, even if the screen looks normal.
• For programmable or Wi-Fi thermostats, look for error alerts or connection problems. Try resetting the thermostat if needed.

Inspect the Circuit Breaker

A tripped breaker can shut your system down completely. Check your panel for any switches that are off or in the middle position. If you find one, flip it all the way off and then back on.

After resetting, listen for your heating system to restart. If the breaker trips again, call a professional; there could be a bigger problem.

Never attempt repeated resets if the breaker keeps tripping, as this could further damage your system or pose a safety hazard.

Check the Air Filter

A clogged air filter can stop your system from working. Find the filter (usually near the blower or return duct), slide it out, and hold it up to the light. If it looks dirty or you can’t see light through it, replace it.

Check and change your filter every 1-3 months during the heating season to avoid problems.

Confirm the Fuel Supply

If you have a gas system, make sure the gas valve is open. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility right away.

For oil systems, check the oil level in the tank. If it’s low, call for a delivery.

If your system uses propane, verify that the propane tank has sufficient fuel and that all valves are open. Extreme cold can sometimes affect propane flow, so gently tap the regulator to dislodge any ice buildup if necessary.

If these steps don’t restore heat, it’s time to call a professional for help. Northeast Heating & Cooling provides fast, reliable service in the Merrimack Valley and North Shore, MA.