What to Do When Your Furnace Stops Working
When your furnace stops working on a cold day, your first priority is restoring heat to your home. This guide walks you through immediate steps you can take safely, when to call for professional service, and what to expect when a technician arrives.
Immediate Steps to Take
1. Check your thermostat — ensure it is set to Heat mode with the temperature set above the current room temperature. Replace batteries if needed. 2. Check the circuit breaker or fuse panel — a tripped breaker is a common cause of furnace shutdown. Reset if tripped. 3. Check the furnace power switch — many furnaces have a wall switch that looks like a light switch and must be in the ON position. 4. Check the air filter — a completely clogged filter can cause the furnace to overheat and shut down on the safety limit. Replace immediately if dirty.
Next Steps
5. Inspect the furnace access panel — if the blower door is not properly secured, a safety interlock switch prevents the furnace from running. Press the panel firmly to close. 6. Press the furnace reset button once — usually a red or black button on the control board or burner compartment. Press only once. 7. Check gas supply — if you have other gas appliances, verify they are working to confirm gas service is active. 8. If these checks do not resolve the issue, call for professional service immediately. Do not continue cycling the furnace — this can cause gas buildup and create a safety hazard.
When to Call BC Wide
If the steps above do not resolve your issue or if you encounter any gas odour, carbon monoxide alarm, electrical hazard, or visible damage, contact BC Wide Home Services Ltd, doing business as BC Wide Heating & Air Conditioning immediately. Our licensed technicians are available for prompt service across Greater Vancouver. Emergency service is available for urgent situations. Call (604) 330-3953 for fast, professional help.
Why Professional Service Matters
Attempting HVAC repairs without proper training and licensing can be dangerous — especially with gas-fired equipment. Licensed gas fitters have the training, diagnostic equipment, and parts to safely diagnose and repair your system. BC Wide Home Services Ltd, doing business as BC Wide Heating & Air Conditioning technicians are Red Seal certified, fully licensed, and insured for your protection.
Safety Reminder
If you smell gas, suspect carbon monoxide or believe there is an immediate danger, leave the property and contact emergency services or the appropriate gas emergency authority. Do not remain inside — exit the building immediately and call for help from outside.