Furnace Emergency FAQ
Get answers to common furnace emergency questions from licensed HVAC experts
Emergency Services
What's considered a furnace emergency?
A furnace emergency includes: complete loss of heat, gas leaks, carbon monoxide detection, strange burning smells, loud unusual noises, or any safety shutdown. If you're unsure, call us - we're available 24/7 to assess your situation.
Do you charge extra for night or weekend calls?
No, we provide 24/7 emergency service at standard rates. There are no additional charges for evenings, weekends, or holidays. Emergency heating situations require immediate attention regardless of the time.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency?
Our goal is to respond within 1-2 hours for true emergencies across Metro Vancouver. Response times may vary based on location, weather conditions, and current call volume, but we prioritize no-heat emergencies.
Can I run my furnace if it's making strange noises?
Stop using your furnace immediately if you hear loud banging, screeching, or grinding noises. These sounds often indicate serious mechanical problems that could cause further damage or safety hazards if operation continues.
Safety Concerns
What should I do if I smell gas near my furnace?
Leave your home immediately, do not use any electrical switches or create sparks, and call 911 from outside. Do not attempt to locate the source or shut off the gas yourself. Call us after emergency services have cleared the area.
Is it safe to use space heaters while waiting for repair?
Use only certified electric space heaters, never gas-powered units indoors. Keep them away from flammable materials, never leave unattended, and ensure adequate ventilation. Avoid using extension cords with high-wattage heaters.
How do I know if my furnace is producing carbon monoxide?
Install CO detectors on every level of your home. Warning signs include: yellow flame instead of blue, soot around the furnace, excessive moisture on windows, and physical symptoms like headaches or dizziness in multiple family members.
Troubleshooting
My furnace won't turn on - what should I check first?
Check your thermostat settings and batteries, ensure the furnace switch is on, verify the circuit breaker hasn't tripped, and make sure the furnace door is properly closed. If these don't resolve the issue, call for professional service.
Why is my furnace turning on and off frequently?
Short cycling can be caused by dirty air filters, thermostat issues, oversized equipment, or airflow restrictions. This problem wastes energy and can damage your system - professional diagnosis is recommended.
What does it mean when my furnace blows cold air?
Cold air can indicate pilot light issues, gas supply problems, or thermostat malfunctions. If the blower runs but produces no heat, this typically requires professional repair to diagnose the specific cause.
Service & Repair
Do you service all furnace brands?
Yes, our technicians are trained to service all major furnace brands including Lennox, Carrier, Trane, Rheem, Goodman, York, Napoleon, Bryant, KeepRite, and Ducane. We stock parts for most common models.
How long do emergency repairs typically take?
Simple repairs like thermostat replacement or filter changes take 30-60 minutes. More complex issues like blower motor or heat exchanger problems may take 2-4 hours. We'll provide time estimates after diagnosis.
Do you provide warranties on emergency repairs?
Yes, all our repair work comes with warranties. Parts typically have manufacturer warranties, and our labor is guaranteed. Warranty terms vary by repair type - we'll explain coverage before starting work.
Costs & Payment
How much do emergency furnace repairs cost?
Costs vary based on the specific problem and required parts. We provide upfront pricing after diagnosis. Simple repairs start around $150-300, while major component replacements can range from $400-1500+.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, all major credit cards, debit cards, and Interac e-Transfer. Payment is due upon completion of work unless other arrangements are made in advance.
Do you offer financing for major repairs?
Yes, we offer financing options for larger repairs and replacements. We can discuss payment plans during your service call to help make necessary repairs affordable.
Prevention & Maintenance
How often should I change my furnace filter?
Check monthly and replace every 1-3 months depending on filter type, home occupancy, and pets. Dirty filters are a leading cause of furnace problems and emergency calls.
What maintenance can prevent emergency breakdowns?
Annual professional tune-ups, regular filter changes, keeping vents unblocked, and addressing minor issues promptly can prevent most emergency situations. Don't ignore warning signs.
When should I consider replacing vs. repairing my furnace?
Consider replacement if your furnace is over 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, has a cracked heat exchanger, or repair costs exceed 50% of replacement value. We'll provide honest recommendations.
Still Have Questions? Need Emergency Service?
Our licensed HVAC technicians are standing by 24/7 to help