What to Do if Your Heating System Fails During Winter

Winter’s chill in Dane County can make a heating system failure a major inconvenience—or even a safety concern. With the right approach, you can protect your home, stay warm, and determine the best solution for your HVAC system. Follow this guide to troubleshoot the issue and know when it’s time to call the experts at Pharo Heating & Cooling for professional support.

1. Identify the Cause

Start by pinpointing why your heating system stopped working.

• Power Issues: Ensure the system is on and set to “heat.” Check the circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers or blown fuses.
• Mechanical Problems: Dirty filters, a malfunctioning blower motor, or a damaged heat exchanger can all interfere with your system’s performance.
• Gas Leaks: If you have a gas furnace and smell sulfur or rotten eggs, it could indicate a dangerous gas leak. Shut off the gas supply, evacuate your home, and contact emergency services immediately.

2. Make Repairs or Call a Technician

While some fixes are simple, others demand professional expertise.

• DIY Fixes: Reset a breaker or replace a clogged air filter to see if this restores function.
• Call a Pro for Complex Issues: Problems like a faulty heat exchanger, pilot light failure, or strange noises should be handled by a certified HVAC technician. Attempting to repair these on your own can lead to safety risks or additional damage.

Pharo Heating & Cooling offers fast, reliable repairs to get your system back in action.

3. Stay Warm While You Wait

While waiting for repairs, take steps to keep your home safe and comfortable:

• Alternative Heating: Use fireplaces or space heaters safely.
• Insulation: Block drafts around windows and doors with stoppers or heavy curtains. 
• Layer Up: Wear warm clothing and blankets, drink hot beverages, and use heating pads for extra warmth.
• Protect Pipes: If your heating is down, direct heat toward exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

4. When to Call an Expert

Certain signs signal that it’s time to call Pharo Heating & Cooling for help:

• Strange Odors: Smells like gas, burning, or mold need immediate attention.
• Unusual Noises: Banging or squealing could indicate broken parts.
• Inconsistent Heat: Weak airflow or cold spots may point to thermostat or duct issues.
• Short Cycling: Frequent stops and starts suggest electrical or ignition problems.
• Higher Energy Bills: An unexplained increase in heating costs can mean your system is losing efficiency.

5. Upgrade Your System for Peace of Mind

If your heating system is outdated or beyond repair, consider upgrading to a more efficient model. Pharo Heating & Cooling offers expert installation services to ensure your home stays comfortable no matter how low the temperatures drop.

Why Choose Pharo Heating & Cooling?

As Dane County’s trusted HVAC experts since 1983, Pharo Heating & Cooling delivers tailored solutions and unmatched service. From emergency repairs to new air conditioner installations, we’re here to ensure your comfort year-round.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact Pharo Heating & Cooling today to schedule a service appointment or learn more about upgrading your system.

For more tips and advice, visit our blog at Pharo Heating & Cooling.