What to Do When Your Furnace Stops Working in the Middle of Winter

A sudden furnace failure in the middle of winter can be stressful, uncomfortable, and even dangerous—especially in British Columbia’s coldest months. While it’s always best to schedule regular maintenance, sometimes breakdowns happen unexpectedly. Before calling a professional, here are steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and possibly restore heat in your home.

Step 1: Check the Thermostat

✅ Is it set to ‘HEAT’? Make sure your thermostat is set to heat and not cooling or fan mode.
✅ Is the temperature set correctly? Increase the setting by 5°C to see if the furnace kicks on.
✅ Is the battery dead? If you have a battery-powered thermostat, replace the batteries.

Step 2: Inspect the Power Source

✅ Check the furnace switch – Sometimes, the emergency shut-off switch gets turned off accidentally.
✅ Inspect the circuit breaker – A tripped breaker can cut power to the furnace. Reset it if needed.

Step 3: Check the Furnace Filter

✅ Is it clogged? A dirty filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down. Replace it if it’s dirty.

Step 4: Inspect the Gas Supply (If Applicable)

✅ Is the gas valve open? Ensure the gas valve near your furnace is in the “ON” position. If you dont know how to handle this or just dont want to - you can always call us!
✅ Is the pilot light out? Older furnaces may have a pilot light that needs relighting. If you smell gas, leave the house immediately and call Fortis BC. 

Step 5: Look for Error Codes

✅ Many modern furnaces have a small LED light that flashes error codes. Check your owner’s manual to decode the flashing sequence.

When to Call a Professional

If none of these steps work, it’s time to call an HVAC technician. Persistent issues could mean:
❌ A failed ignitor or flame sensor
❌ A faulty blower motor
❌ A broken thermostat

At Tidal Mechanical, we understand how critical reliable heating is for BC homeowners. Our team is on call to quickly diagnose and fix furnace issues—so you’re never left in the cold.

📞 Need emergency furnace repair? Call us today!