Heating Guide: What to Do Before Help Arrives

Heat’s Out? Here’s What to Do Next

A cold home can feel like the walls are closing in, especially when you have family or pets depending on you. At I.Z. Heating, we understand the stress of a sudden heating failure—and we know what it takes to get you back to comfort, fast.

But before our technician arrives, there are steps you can take to keep everyone safe and maybe even help speed up your repair. Let’s walk through what matters most when the heat goes out.

First: Stay Calm and Check the Basics 🛑

Losing heat can be scary, but you’re not powerless. Here’s a quick checklist to help you cover your bases safely:

• Check the Thermostat: Is it set to “Heat”? Is the temperature above room temperature? Sometimes the solution is as simple as a bumped switch or dead batteries.
• Inspect Your Breakers: Head to your electrical panel. Look for any tripped breakers labeled “Furnace,” “HVAC,” or “Heating.” If you find one, switch it fully off, then back on. If it trips again, leave it off and wait for help.
• Fuel Supply: For gas or oil systems, make sure your supply hasn’t run out. Smell gas? Leave the house immediately and call emergency services—don’t risk it.
• Listen and Look: Quiet noises or unusual smells? These can help the technician diagnose the issue later. (But don’t open panels or start poking around.)

Space Heaters: Use with Caution

Space heaters can be a lifeline—but also a hazard if misused.

• Keep Them Away from Flammables: At least 3 feet away from curtains, bedding, and furniture.
• Never Leave Unattended: Turn them off when you leave a room or go to sleep.
• Plug Directly Into the Wall: Extension cords can overheat.
• Use Only Certified Models: Look for UL, ETL, or CSA marks—these meet safety standards.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in winter months. Safety first, always.

Preventing Frozen Pipes 🚿

When it’s freezing outside, pipes can become ice-cold, too. A burst pipe means water damage on top of no heat.

• Open Cabinet Doors: Let warm air reach pipes under sinks—especially on exterior walls.
• Let Water Drip: A slow trickle from faucets can keep pipes from freezing.
• Bundle Up Pipes: If you can safely reach them, insulate exposed pipes with towels or foam.

Remember, water expands as it freezes—don’t ignore those frigid overnight temps.

What NOT to Do: Skip the Risky Repairs

When you’re cold and frustrated, it’s tempting to “just try” something. But some fixes are best left to the pros:

• Don’t Open Furnace Panels or Gas Lines: This can void warranties, cause injury, or create dangerous leaks.
• Don’t Use Ovens for Heat: Gas ovens aren’t designed for space heating and can produce deadly carbon monoxide.
• Don’t Ignore Warning Signs: Burning smells, electrical buzzing, or a yellow pilot light all mean it’s time to step back and wait for help.

A quick fix can turn into a big, expensive problem if you’re not careful. Let our certified team handle the troubleshooting.

What to Tell Your Technician

The more details you have, the faster a solution usually comes together. Before your appointment, jot down:

• When did the heat go out?
• Was there a strange sound, smell, or error code?
• Have you tried resetting the breaker or thermostat?
• Any recent work or changes to the system?
• Are there vulnerable people or pets in the home?

This info helps us prioritize repairs and bring the right tools. It’s like giving your heating tech a head start.

What to Expect When the Pros Arrive 🧰

When an I.Z. Heating technician reaches your door, they’ll follow strict safety and diagnostic protocols:

• Visual Inspection: We look for obvious signs of trouble—wiring, venting, leaks.
• Testing: Using professional-grade meters for voltage, gas leaks, and airflow.
• Code Compliance: Repairs follow local and national safety codes (see the International Residential Code and manufacturer guidelines for reference).
• Clear Communication: You’ll get an honest assessment of what’s wrong, what needs fixing, and what it will take.

We never cut corners or skip safety steps. Your family’s well-being is our first priority.

When It’s Truly an Emergency

Certain heating issues are more than inconvenient—they’re dangerous. Call for emergency help (and leave the home) if you:

• Smell gas or rotten eggs (potential leak).
• Hear popping, banging, or see smoke from vents or the system.
• Have infants, elderly, or medically vulnerable people at risk for hypothermia.
• Experience carbon monoxide alarms going off.

For urgent help, see our 24 Hour Emergency Service for Norton Shores, Michigan page.

Preventing the Next Heating Emergency

Most breakdowns don’t happen out of thin air. Regular maintenance can catch small problems before they become big ones.

• Annual Furnace Tune-Ups: Clean burners, check safety controls, and replace filters.
• Duct Cleaning: Keeps air moving and reduces allergens.
• HVAC Maintenance: Catches loose wires, worn belts, and airflow issues.
• IAQ Testing Near You: Ensures your air is clean, healthy, and free of dangerous gases.

Explore our heating repair and HVAC repair services to schedule routine care.

Costs and Time Factors: What to Expect

Every home is different. Some problems take just a quick reset; others need parts or deeper repairs.

• Minor Fixes: (Thermostat, breaker) can be fast—under an hour.
• Complex Repairs: (Blower motors, ignitors) may require parts and a second visit.
• Emergency Visits: May cost more, especially after-hours, but can prevent bigger losses like water damage or health risks.

We’ll always explain your options up front, so there are no surprises.

FAQ: Common Heating Outage Questions

How cold can my house get before pipes freeze?

Pipes start to freeze at around 20°F indoors, according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. If your home is dropping below 55°F, take action.

Is it safe to sleep with a space heater on?

Most experts, including the National Fire Protection Association, advise turning off space heaters before bed unless they have a tip-over shutoff and timer.

Can I use my fireplace for heat?

Wood-burning fireplaces can help, but never leave them unattended, and always open the flue to vent smoke and gases.

Why did my furnace stop working?

Common culprits: tripped breakers, thermostat issues, dirty filters, or failed components. If you’re not sure, wait for a pro.

Local and Seasonal Tips for Staying Warm 🧣

Winter in the Midwest can be brutal. Here’s how to stack the odds in your favor:

• Weatherproof Your Home: Seal drafts around doors and windows.
• Layer Up: Blankets, socks, and hats go a long way.
• Keep an Emergency Kit: Flashlight, bottled water, and nonperishable snacks just in case.

Remember, a little preparation can make a huge difference when the mercury drops.

Call I.Z. Heating now — or reach us anytime at  844-403-0449 .