5 Signs You Need an Emergency Furnace Repair

5 Signs You Need an Emergency Furnace Repair

When it comes to being warm and comfy in our homes, our furnace is our best friend. But when it isn’t performing well, a furnace repair may be in order. However, as luck would have it, HVAC systems don’t always break down during regular business hours.

It’s stressful when your family’s teeth chatter in the night. So, how do you know the difference between a quick fix and needing an emergency furnace repair? Here are five telltale signs that you need professional assistance.

Furnace is Making Strange Noises

Many movies depict a rattling, snarly furnace waiting in the basement for innocent children to go by, and it is rather scary— but for different reasons. The reality is that there is something wrong with your furnace, and it needs attention ASAP. It could indicate a carbon monoxide issue and one that you don’t want to mess around with.

You may not need an emergency furnace repair if you are still in the milder months. Instead, you can call in the pros for a daytime furnace repair and have them assess your entire HVAC system while they are there. 

It’s Not Heating Your Home

The furnace is not always the culprit. Perhaps someone’s hot flashes change the house’s preferred temperature, or one of the kids has been playing with the thermostat. 

If none of these seem to be the issue, something is up with the furnace. As you begin your investigation and rule out other suspects, it’s time to check “under the hood” to discover the pilot light is out. What now?

The Pilot Light is Out

A pilot light is a small, visible flame that acts as the ignition source for appliances such as the furnace, water heaters, and gas fireplaces. It runs continuously, and if you don’t see it flickering away, it has gone out.

What do you do if your pilot light goes out? The pilot light runs on natural gas, and when it goes out, it usually indicates an interruption in gas flow. If turning on the gas and relighting the pilot light doesn’t work, you need professional help from a certified HVAC technician.

Seeing Sparks or Flames

Anything involving natural gas and flame deserves a good dose of respect without guesswork tinkering. 

If you head into the furnace room to check the pilot light and notice sparks, there is reason to be concerned. Sparks can indicate the following:



1. The ignitor is not activating the burners
2. The ignition or burners are dirty
3. The flame sensor is malfunctioning
4. A wiring problem

The technician will shut off the natural gas and clean or replace the ignitor, burners, or flame sensor to solve the problem. However, with larger flames, extinguish them immediately and call for help.

Strong Smell of Gas

Another indication that your furnace requires attention is the smell of natural gas in your home. Again, even the faintest odour should be a red flag that something is amiss. 

Rather than try to investigate, immediately vacate your home with your family and pets, then call the gas company’s emergency line. If they aren’t immediately available, contact your fire department. Leave your door open as you exit and wait for emergency crews to arrive.

Know Who to Call For Your Repair

Your furnace is vital to the comfort and well-being of your home and everyone who resides there. Have the reassurance of professional maintenance and repair by the trusted technicians at Excelsior Mechanical Ltd. in Saskatoon, SK. 

Whether you need emergency furnace repairs or HVAC installation, they have the reliable, quality services homeowners need to keep their furnaces running smoothly. Get your furnace maintained today! Book your appointment online or by calling 306-652-1795.