Stay Calm: Assess the Situation First
A furnace breakdown feels like an emergency, but taking a few minutes to assess the situation can save you time, money, and potentially dangerous mistakes. Most furnace issues have simple explanations, and some can be resolved without professional service. Start by asking yourself three questions: Is there any heat at all? Do you smell gas? Are there unusual sounds or odors?
If you smell natural gas—a distinctive rotten egg odor—this is a genuine emergency. Leave your home immediately, do not touch any electrical switches or create sparks, and call Enbridge Gas Emergency Line at 1-866-763-5427 from outside your home. Once safe, contact Gas Man Ottawa at (613) 880-3888 for emergency furnace repair.
Immediate Safety Checks: Protect Your Home and Family
Before troubleshooting your furnace, ensure your family’s safety with these critical checks.
Carbon Monoxide Detection
A malfunctioning furnace can produce dangerous carbon monoxide (CO)—an odorless, colorless, deadly gas. If your CO detector is alarming, evacuate immediately and call 911. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Never ignore these warning signs.
If you don’t have working CO detectors near sleeping areas and your furnace, install them today. They’re inexpensive lifesavers that every Ottawa home needs, especially during heating season.
Keep Pipes from Freezing
Without heat, exposed pipes can freeze and burst within hours when temperatures drop below -15°C. Take immediate action to protect your plumbing:
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation around pipes
- Let faucets drip slightly—moving water is less likely to freeze
- Focus on pipes along exterior walls, in unheated basements, and crawl spaces
- Use space heaters safely in problem areas, never leaving them unattended
Burst pipes cause thousands of dollars in water damage. Prevention costs nothing but attention.
Clear Space Around Your Furnace
Before investigating your furnace, ensure the area is safe. Remove any storage boxes, cleaning supplies, paint cans, or flammable materials within three feet of your unit. Never store gasoline, propane, or volatile chemicals near heating equipment.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting: DIY Checks Before Calling
Many furnace “emergencies” have simple solutions. Work through these troubleshooting steps systematically before calling for emergency service.
1. Check Your Thermostat
It sounds obvious, but thermostat issues cause countless unnecessary service calls. Verify these basics:
- Mode setting: Confirm it’s set to “HEAT” not “COOL” or “OFF”
- Temperature setting: Set it at least 3-5 degrees above current room temperature
- Display: If the screen is blank, replace batteries (most thermostats use AA or AAA)
- Programming: Check if a schedule lowered the temperature automatically
- Fan setting: Switch from “AUTO” to “ON” to see if the blower runs—this tells you if the furnace has power
Try setting your thermostat higher than normal and wait 3-5 minutes. If nothing happens, continue troubleshooting. Need a thermostat upgrade? Learn about professional thermostat installation options.
2. Inspect Your Circuit Breaker
Electrical issues frequently cause furnace failures. Locate your electrical panel and find the breaker labeled “FURNACE,” “HVAC,” or “HEATING.”
- If the breaker is in the middle position (tripped), flip it fully OFF, wait 30 seconds, then flip it back ON
- If it immediately trips again, you have an electrical problem requiring professional diagnosis
- Check for a separate furnace disconnect switch near your unit—it looks like a light switch and may have been accidentally turned off
Repeatedly tripped breakers indicate serious problems. Don’t keep resetting it—call for professional furnace repair.
3. Examine Your Furnace Filter
A clogged filter is the most common cause of furnace shutdowns. Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing your system to overheat and shut down as a safety measure.
Locate your filter (usually in a slot where the return duct meets the furnace or in a ceiling/wall return vent). Pull it out and hold it up to light:
- If you can’t see light through it, it’s too dirty
- Replace disposable filters immediately
- Clean washable filters with water and let dry completely before reinstalling
- During winter, check filters every 3-4 weeks and replace when gray or visibly dirty
After installing a clean filter, wait 10-15 minutes and try your furnace again. Regular furnace maintenance prevents these issues.
4. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition System
For older furnaces with standing pilot lights, look through the viewing window or access panel. The flame should be steady and blue. If it’s yellow, flickering, or out, follow these steps:
- Locate the pilot light instructions on your furnace (usually on a metal plate near the pilot assembly)
- Turn the gas control valve to “OFF” and wait 5-10 minutes for gas to dissipate
- Turn the valve to “PILOT,” press and hold the reset button, and use a long lighter to ignite the pilot
- Hold the button for 30-60 seconds after the flame catches, then release
- Turn the valve to “ON”
If the pilot won’t stay lit after 2-3 attempts, you likely have a faulty thermocouple—a common repair requiring professional service.
Modern furnaces use electronic ignition instead of pilot lights. If you hear clicking but no ignition, or see error codes flashing, note the code number and contact a technician for diagnosis.
5. Inspect the Furnace Switch
Most furnaces have a dedicated power switch mounted on or near the unit. It looks like a standard light switch, sometimes in a red or gray electrical box. Verify it’s in the ON position—it’s surprisingly easy to accidentally flip off when moving storage items.
6. Examine Outdoor Exhaust Vents
Modern high-efficiency furnaces use PVC pipes that vent through exterior walls. In Ottawa winters, these vents can become blocked by snow, ice, or debris. Go outside and locate your furnace exhaust pipes (usually white or gray PVC, about 2-4 inches in diameter).
- Clear away any snow, ice, leaves, or bird nests
- Ensure both intake and exhaust pipes are completely clear
- Check that pipes aren’t damaged or disconnected
Blocked vents prevent proper combustion and trigger safety shutdowns. They can also cause dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside your home. This is a critical safety check after heavy snowfall.
7. Reset Your Furnace
Many furnaces have a reset button—usually red or yellow, located near the blower motor or on the burner assembly. Press it once and wait 30 seconds. If the furnace starts, the problem may have been a temporary sensor error.
Never press the reset button more than once. Repeated resets can flood the combustion chamber with gas, creating a fire hazard. If the reset doesn’t work, professional diagnosis is necessary.
When to Call for Emergency Furnace Repair
Some situations require immediate professional help. Don’t attempt DIY repairs if you experience any of these conditions:
- Gas smell: Any odor of natural gas requires immediate evacuation and emergency response
- Flames other than blue: Yellow or orange flames indicate incomplete combustion and potential carbon monoxide production
- Loud banging, grinding, or screeching: These sounds indicate mechanical failure that will worsen rapidly
- Repeated shutdowns: If your furnace starts then stops repeatedly, internal safety controls are triggering
- Error codes: Flashing lights or digital displays showing error codes indicate specific failures requiring diagnostic equipment
- Water pooling: Leaks around your furnace suggest condensate drain issues or heat exchanger cracks
- Unusual odors: Burning plastic, oil, or electrical smells indicate dangerous malfunctions
- Age-related failures: Furnaces over 15-20 years old experiencing breakdowns may need replacement rather than repair
Ottawa winters don’t allow for delays. When temperatures drop to -30°C, your home loses heat rapidly. Professional HVAC technicians have the tools, training, and parts to restore heat quickly and safely.
What to Expect from Emergency Furnace Service
When you call Gas Man Ottawa for emergency furnace repair, here’s what happens:
Immediate Response
We prioritize no-heat emergencies during extreme cold. Our licensed TSSA gas technicians respond quickly, often arriving within hours. We’ll ask diagnostic questions over the phone to bring the right parts and equipment.
Comprehensive Diagnosis
Our technicians don’t just swap parts hoping to fix the problem. We systematically test components, measure voltages and gas pressure, inspect heat exchangers, and verify safety controls. This thorough approach ensures we identify the actual cause—not just symptoms.
Transparent Pricing
Before any repair work begins, we provide clear, upfront pricing. You’ll know exactly what the repair costs before approving any work. No surprises on your bill.
Quality Repairs with Warranties
We use genuine manufacturer parts whenever possible. Our repairs are backed by both manufacturer warranties on parts and our labor guarantee. If something goes wrong with our work, we fix it free of charge.
Gas Man Ottawa provides emergency furnace repair service throughout Ottawa, including Orleans, Kanata, Barrhaven, Nepean, Manotick, and surrounding areas.
Temporary Heating Solutions While Waiting for Repair
If you’re waiting for a technician or parts, these strategies help maintain livable temperatures:
Safe Space Heater Use
- Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off features and tip-over protection
- Never use gas-powered heaters, generators, or propane heaters indoors—they produce deadly carbon monoxide
- Keep heaters at least three feet from curtains, furniture, bedding, and other flammables
- Plug directly into wall outlets, never extension cords (fire hazard)
- Never leave space heaters running unattended or while sleeping
- Focus heating on one or two rooms where family members gather
Seal Off Unused Areas
Close doors to unused rooms and place rolled towels along door bottoms to contain heat in occupied spaces. Hang blankets over doorways to create thermal barriers.
Maximize Body Heat
- Layer clothing rather than cranking space heaters to dangerous levels
- Use sleeping bags or heavy blankets for overnight warmth
- Stay active—movement generates body heat
- Drink warm beverages (avoid alcohol, which makes you feel warmer while actually lowering body temperature)
Consider Temporary Relocation
If outdoor temperatures are below -20°C and repairs will take more than 24 hours, consider staying with family, friends, or in a hotel. Extended exposure to indoor temperatures below 10°C poses health risks, especially for children, elderly family members, and those with health conditions.
Preventing Future Furnace Emergencies
Most furnace breakdowns are preventable with proper maintenance and attention. These practices dramatically reduce emergency repair risks:
Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
Book your furnace tune-up every fall before temperatures drop. Professional maintenance includes:
- Complete system inspection and safety testing
- Cleaning burners, blower assembly, and flame sensors
- Testing gas pressure and ignition systems
- Inspecting heat exchangers for cracks (carbon monoxide risk)
- Verifying proper airflow and combustion
- Testing all safety controls and limit switches
- Lubricating motors and bearings
- Checking electrical connections
Regular annual furnace maintenance prevents 90% of unexpected breakdowns. It’s insurance against mid-winter emergencies.
Replace Filters Religiously
During Ottawa’s heating season (November-March), check your filter monthly. Replace it when it looks gray or you can’t see light through it. This single habit prevents most common furnace failures.
Listen to Your Furnace
Unusual sounds warn you of developing problems before complete failure. Squealing indicates belt wear. Rattling suggests loose components. Booming points to delayed ignition. Address these warnings promptly with professional inspection.
Monitor Performance
Pay attention to heating patterns. If some rooms are cold, if cycles are shorter or longer than normal, or if your energy bills spike unexpectedly, schedule service before minor issues become emergencies.
Keep the Area Clear
Maintain at least three feet of clearance around your furnace. Blocked airflow reduces efficiency and creates fire hazards. Store items away from your HVAC equipment.
Know Your Furnace’s Age
Furnaces typically last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. If yours is approaching this age, start budgeting for replacement. Older systems fail more frequently and repair costs escalate as parts become scarce.
Understanding Emergency Service Costs
Emergency furnace repairs cost more than scheduled service calls. Here’s why, and what to expect:
After-Hours and Weekend Premiums
Emergency service outside business hours involves technician overtime pay, which is reflected in service call fees. However, the cost of emergency repair is far less than the cost of frozen pipes, water damage, or temporary relocation.
Common Emergency Repair Costs
Typical emergency repairs in Ottawa range from $200-$800 depending on the issue:
- Thermocouple replacement: $200-$350
- Flame sensor cleaning: $150-$250
- Ignition system repair: $300-$500
- Blower motor replacement: $400-$800
- Gas valve replacement: $350-$600
- Control board replacement: $400-$700
These estimates include parts, labor, and service call fees. Actual costs vary based on furnace age, make, model, and part availability.
Repair vs. Replace Decisions
If your furnace is over 15 years old and repair costs exceed $500-$600, replacement often makes more financial sense. New high-efficiency furnaces save 30-40% on energy costs while providing reliable heat with full warranties.
Our technicians provide honest assessments. If replacement is more economical, we’ll explain why and offer options—we never push unnecessary replacements.
Service Area Coverage
Gas Man Ottawa provides emergency furnace repair service throughout the Ottawa region:
- Orleans furnace repair
- Kanata furnace repair
- Nepean furnace repair
- Barrhaven emergency heating service
- Manotick HVAC emergency service
- Gloucester, Vanier, and surrounding communities
Our technicians carry common parts and diagnostic equipment to resolve most emergencies in a single visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can a technician arrive for emergency furnace repair?
During extreme cold conditions, we prioritize no-heat emergencies and typically respond within 2-4 hours. Response times vary based on call volume and weather conditions. When you call, we’ll provide an estimated arrival window.
What should I do if my furnace stops working at night?
First, work through the troubleshooting steps in this guide—many issues have simple solutions. If you still have no heat, call (613) 880-3888 for emergency service. In the meantime, use safe space heaters in occupied rooms, dress warmly, and protect pipes from freezing.
Will my home warranty cover emergency furnace repair?
Coverage depends on your specific warranty terms. Many home warranties cover furnace repairs after a deductible. Call your warranty company first to open a claim, then contact us for service. We work with most warranty providers.
Can I fix my furnace myself to save money?
Basic troubleshooting like filter changes, thermostat checks, and breaker resets are safe DIY tasks. However, gas furnace repairs require specialized training, tools, and licensing. DIY gas work is illegal in Ontario and extremely dangerous—risking fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
How can I tell if my heat exchanger is cracked?
Cracked heat exchangers require professional diagnosis with specialized cameras and testing equipment. Warning signs include: rust or soot around your furnace, unusual odors when heating, visible cracks or holes when inspecting the exchanger, and carbon monoxide detector alarms. Never operate a furnace with a cracked heat exchanger—it’s a life-threatening hazard.
Should I turn off my furnace if it’s making loud noises?
Yes. Loud banging, grinding, or screeching indicates mechanical failure that can worsen rapidly. Turn off your furnace at the thermostat and breaker panel, then call for emergency service. Continued operation may cause additional damage.
What’s the most common cause of furnace failures in Ottawa?
Dirty filters cause the majority of furnace shutdowns. Restricted airflow triggers safety limit switches that shut down your system. The second most common cause is thermocouple failures on older furnaces. Both are preventable with regular maintenance.
Is it normal for my furnace to need repairs every winter?
No. A well-maintained furnace should operate reliably for years between repairs. If you’re calling for repairs annually, your system is either improperly maintained, undersized for your home, or nearing the end of its useful life. Consider a professional assessment to determine if replacement is more economical.
Take Action Before Winter’s Next Deep Freeze
Furnace emergencies strike without warning, but preparation minimizes their impact. Know your system’s age and condition. Keep filters changed. Schedule annual professional maintenance. Store our number where you can find it quickly. These simple steps separate uncomfortable inconveniences from household disasters.
Ottawa winters test every heating system. When yours fails—and eventually, every furnace does—you need reliable, professional help fast. Don’t wait until you’re sitting in a freezing house at midnight to find a contractor.
Experiencing a furnace emergency right now? Gas Man Ottawa’s licensed TSSA gas technicians provide fast, professional emergency furnace repair throughout Ottawa and surrounding areas. We carry common parts, arrive quickly, and restore your heat safely.
Call (613) 880-3888 now for emergency furnace repair service.
Want to prevent future emergencies? Schedule annual furnace maintenance and protect your investment. Our comprehensive tune-ups identify problems before they leave you in the cold. Book online or call today.
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