Ohio winters can be brutal, with average January temperatures dropping below freezing. This is the worst time for your heat to stop working, especially if you have kids, seniors, health-compromised individuals, or pets in your home. Knowing what to do if this situation happens is important for your comfort, safety, and well-being.
Check the Circuit Breaker
If your heat went out due to a tripped breaker, flipping it back on could quickly resolve the issue. Flip the breaker to the “on” position, then wait a few moments. If it turns off again, leave it as it is, as this could indicate either a problem with the HVAC system or the electrical panel. Your unit might need professional heating repair. If the unit stays on, enjoy the heat but pay attention to any abnormal behaviors, such as unusual odors.
Check the Air Filter
A clogged air filter could cause your HVAC system to overheat and shut down. For safety, turn off the system at the electrical panel. If the unit has a reusable filter, remove it carefully, wash it gently, then let it dry completely before putting it back in. For a disposable filter, take the old one out and install the new one. Turn the system back on to see if this fixed the problem.
Call for Emergency Help
If the filter or electrical panel isn’t the cause of the heat going off, you need emergency assistance. The Comfort Control team is available day and night for heat pump, boiler, and furnace repairs. Don’t delay calling; our technicians can identify the issue and determine the appropriate resolution. Contacting us quickly ensures faster service to restore your heating.
Layer on Clothing and Blankets
Layer your clothes to stay comfortable. Start with a warm, thin base layer, such as a thermal top and bottom. Next is an insulating layer, like a fleece sweater and pants. Those two layers should suffice, but add another layer if needed. Gather as many warm blankets as you can find and head to the warmest part of your home.
Close Doors
While you’re waiting for heating repairs, close the doors to rooms you’re not using. Put draft blockers at the base of the doors to prevent drafts. This helps keep warm air in the room you’re in instead of unnecessarily going into other areas.
Position Your Curtains
If your heat goes out during the day, open the curtains to let the natural light stream in, which could provide some extra warmth to your space. If the problem happens at night, close the curtains to trap any residual heat inside. This can help insulate the room while you wait for the Comfort Control team to arrive.
Use Electric Heating Options
If you’re going to use electric heating options, do so carefully. For example, don’t use a space heater near any water sources or flammable items. Additionally, keep pets and kids away from it, as they may accidentally knock it over or burn themselves.
Another option is to use an electric heated blanket. Keep it as flat as possible to prevent damage to the internal components. You should also avoid sitting on it.
Never leave the space heater or heated blanket unattended or use them while you’re sleeping, as this increases the risk of fire. Additionally, don’t leave them alone in the presence of kids or pets, even if you’re in the next room. An adult should be present at all times.
Should I Try to Fix the Heating System Myself?
Other than checking the electrical panel and the air filter, you should never attempt furnace repairs yourself. Doing so could result in personal injury, including burns or electrical shock. You might also unintentionally cause further damage to your system, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Additionally, DIY repairs might void your system’s warranty, which means you may be responsible for paying future repair costs out of pocket.
Don’t wait to seek assistance when your heat goes out during winter. Comfort Control in Ashland and Wellington, OH, offers 24/7 emergency assistance to help restore heating to your home.
Call us now to schedule an emergency heating appointment.
