There’s nothing more uncomfortable than waking up to a freezing home in the middle of winter because your furnace stopped working. It’s a stressful situation, especially when temperatures in Oakland County, MI, drop below freezing. That’s why it’s important to know what steps to take if you ever need emergency furnace repairs. At Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’ve been helping families stay warm since 1929, and we’re here to offer you some practical advice.
Stay Calm and Check the Basics
When your furnace suddenly stops working, your first instinct might be to panic. But before calling for emergency furnace repairs, take a moment to check a few simple things:
- Check the Thermostat – Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a thermostat that was accidentally switched off or set incorrectly.
- Inspect the Power Supply – Your furnace needs electricity to run, even if it uses gas for heating. Check if there’s a tripped breaker or a blown fuse in your electrical panel.
- Look at the Furnace Switch – Most furnaces have a switch nearby that looks like a light switch. Make sure it’s turned on.
- Check the Pilot Light or Ignition – If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, see if it’s still lit. Newer models may have an electric ignition system, so ensure it’s functioning properly.
Common Furnace Issues That Need Professional Repairs
If everything seems to be in order but your furnace still isn’t working, it might be time to call in the pros. Here are some common problems that require professional furnace repairs:
- Clogged Air Filters – Dirty air filters can block airflow and cause your furnace to overheat or shut down. Regularly changing your filters can prevent this issue, but if it’s already clogged, you may need a technician to inspect your system.
- Malfunctioning Blower Motor – The blower motor pushes warm air through your home. If it stops working, you won’t feel any heat coming from your vents, even if the furnace is running.
- Faulty Ignition System – Whether it’s a pilot light or an electric ignition, if this component fails, your furnace won’t produce heat. This is a job best left to a trained technician.
- Broken Thermostat – A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent your furnace from turning on or maintaining the right temperature. A quick repair or replacement can fix this problem.
- Gas Supply Issues – If you have a gas furnace and suspect a problem with the gas supply, turn off the gas and call for help right away. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
When to Call for Emergency Furnace Repairs
Sometimes, furnace issues can wait for a regular service appointment, but other times, you need help immediately. Here’s when you should call for emergency furnace repairs:
- No Heat During Extreme Cold – If your home is freezing and you can’t get your furnace to work, don’t wait. Extreme cold can be dangerous, especially for young children and elderly family members.
- Strange Noises – Loud banging, screeching, or rattling noises coming from your furnace can indicate a serious problem. Call a professional before things get worse.
- Unusual Smells – If you notice a gas smell or an odor like something is burning, turn off your furnace and call for emergency help immediately. A gas leak or electrical issue can pose serious risks.
- Frequent Cycling – If your furnace keeps turning on and off rapidly, also known as short-cycling, call Kotz for a furnace repair. This can lead to more damage if not addressed quickly.
Preventive Maintenance Can Help Avoid Emergencies
One of the best ways to avoid needing emergency furnace repairs is by scheduling regular maintenance. At Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we offer preventive maintenance services that keep your furnace in top shape. During a maintenance visit, our NATE-certified technicians will:
- Inspect and clean all key components
- Check for worn-out or failing parts
- Test the ignition and thermostat
- Ensure proper airflow and ventilation
Regular maintenance helps catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. Plus, it can improve your furnace’s efficiency, saving you money on energy bills.
Trust Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for Fast Furnace Repairs
When you need emergency furnace repairs, you want someone who can respond quickly and get the job done right. That’s exactly what we do at Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Since 1929, our team has been providing top-notch furnace repairs and other HVAC services to homeowners in Waterford, MI, and throughout Oakland County.
We pride ourselves on offering honest, reliable service with personalized attention. Our technicians are highly trained, NATE-certified, and experienced in handling all types of furnace issues. We also stand behind the reliable products we offer from trusted manufacturers.
Call Us Anytime for Emergency Furnace Repairs
No one plans for a furnace breakdown, but when it happens, you can count on Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to be there. Whether it’s late at night or over the weekend, we’re ready to provide fast and reliable emergency furnace repairs.
Don’t wait until a minor problem turns into a major issue. Give Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing a call, and let us help keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.
