A cold house is stressful, especially when the first chilly nights arrive. If your furnace is not heating, a few simple checks can help you describe the problem before you call. These steps are for homeowners in Schomberg and nearby Lloydtown, Pottageville, and Kettleby; they do not require opening the furnace or touching gas equipment.
First, rule out an emergency
If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, get everyone outside immediately and call 911 from a safe place. Do not re-enter until emergency responders say it is safe. If you smell rotten eggs or suspect a natural gas leak, leave immediately, avoid switches or phones nearby, and call 911 or Enbridge Gas from outside. A CO alarm does not detect a natural gas leak. See Enbridge Gas’s carbon monoxide guidance and gas safety guidance.
Five safe checks when the furnace is not heating
- Check the thermostat. Make sure it is set to Heat and the requested temperature is higher than the room temperature. If it uses replaceable batteries, check them according to the thermostat manual.
- Check the normal power controls. Look at the furnace’s accessible power switch and the electrical panel. If a breaker has tripped, follow your panel’s instructions. If it trips again, stop and call a professional; do not keep resetting it.
- Look at the air filter. A heavily clogged filter can restrict airflow. If the filter is designed for homeowner replacement, use the correct size and airflow direction specified in your system manual. Do not run the furnace with a missing filter unless the manufacturer instructs you to.
- Check visible outdoor vents. From the ground, look for leaves, snow, or ice blocking accessible intake or exhaust openings. Remove loose snow or debris only when you can do so safely. Do not dismantle venting or climb to reach it.
- Note what the system does. Does the fan run without warm air? Does it start and stop quickly? Is there a visible error code you can read without removing a panel? These details help the service team prepare.
Do not open gas fittings, bypass safety switches, or repeatedly restart a furnace that keeps shutting down. If the simple checks do not restore heat, arrange a professional diagnosis.
When to call for service
Call when the furnace stays off, blows cool air, cycles repeatedly, makes an unusual noise, or cannot keep the home comfortable. A technician can assess the controls, ignition, airflow, venting, and safety components, then explain the repair options before work begins. If you are planning ahead for winter, a furnace maintenance visit can help identify issues before a breakdown.
Local help from Schomberg Heating & Cooling
We help homeowners in Schomberg and nearby communities understand what is wrong and what to do next. For furnace repair, call (905) 939-2350 and tell us what you observed. We will discuss service availability and the next step. If there is a suspected gas or carbon monoxide emergency, use emergency services first.