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Quickly check basic issues if your furnace stops in winter — confirm the thermostat is set to heating, reset any tripped circuit breakers, replace a dirty filter, and clear the outdoor vent of snow or debris. If these steps don’t restore heat, schedule professional service.
As we start to see some of our coldest temperatures of the season, you may want to keep a close watch on your furnace. The colder it is outside, the harder your furnace will have to work to keep your home warm and comfortable.
A furnace breakdown in cold weather is the last thing anyone wants. However, because it is running so much, this is most likely the time that it will. If your furnace shows signs of trouble or stops working altogether, call (800) 564-2611 to schedule fast, professional service before the cold sets in.
If your furnace stops running, here is what you should do:
Check Your Thermostat
Make sure that your thermostat is switched over to ‘heating’ mode. Check and change the batteries if your thermostat is battery-operated. If there is warm air coming out of your vents and just not hitting the temperature that you set it to, the system could be operating, just unable to reach the desired thermostat setting.
Check Your Circuit Breaker
Locate your furnace’s circuit breaker and check whether it has tripped. If it is off, switch it back to the “on” position. Consider fully resetting the breaker to your furnace altogether to see if this restores system operation.
Change Your Filter
Make sure that you have a clean furnace filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow; this can overheat the system, causing a furnace to shut down.
Examine Your Outdoor Exhaust
Locate your outdoor exhaust pipe/vent and make sure that it is clear and free of debris or snow and ice.
A blocked vent can shut down your furnace without warning and may cause dangerous carbon monoxide to build up inside your home.
If you have done the previous steps and still have no heat, call Logan Services immediately! We can offer emergency service and next-day installation!
What To Do If You Lose Power During Extreme Cold
- Use Alternate Heat Sources Carefully: Be mindful of using anything running on natural gas or propane; it will require proper ventilation to avoid releasing dangerous levels of CO into the home. Only build fires in a well-maintained fireplace and always remember to put out the fire before you leave.
- Preserve Warmth In The Home: Avoid opening exterior doors as much as you can. Make sure your garage doors are also closed. Close blinds and curtains to block drafts.
- Dress For Comfort: Dress in layers to stay warm! Wear a hat, gloves, an extra sweater, and thick socks to help keep your body warm and your extremities flexible.
- Protect Your Plumbing: When the indoor temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you risk having a pipe freeze/burst. Open cabinet doors to allow remaining heat to surround the pipes.
Are you wondering how winter elements can impact your heating and cooling system?
Learn more about the precautions you should take when snow and ice are in the forecast »
Need Immediate Furnace Help?
If your furnace is still not working or you are concerned about a possible safety issue, do not wait. Call (800) 564-2611 to schedule fast, professional furnace service and restore reliable heat to your home as quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Furnace Breakdowns
Start by checking the thermostat settings, circuit breaker, air filter, and outdoor exhaust vent, as these are the most common and quickest issues to resolve.
No, repeated shutdowns can indicate airflow problems, vent blockages, or safety sensor issues that require professional inspection.
Yes, a blocked intake or exhaust vent can trigger safety shutoffs and may lead to carbon monoxide risks if left unaddressed.
Call for service immediately if basic checks do not restore heat, the furnace will not stay running, or you notice unusual smells, noises, or warning lights.
Proper ventilation allows exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, to safely exit your home and ensures your furnace operates correctly. Blocked or restricted vents can cause system shutdowns, reduced efficiency, or serious safety hazards and should be cleared immediately.
