A functioning heating system is critically important when temperatures drop below zero. If your furnace or heat pump stops working, it can become a serious safety concern. Knowing what steps to take can help you keep warm while you wait for a professional technician to arrive.
In this guide, the heating repair experts at Home Comfort Services provide you with preventive maintenance tips and emergency measures to keep your home warm during unexpected heating failures in the middle of a Chicagoland winter.
How to Maintain Your Furnace During Sub-Zero Weather
Preventing a heating emergency is the best way to avoid the stress and discomfort of a breakdown in extreme cold. The maintenance tips below can help keep your heating system running smoothly on the coldest days of the year:
- Schedule regular tune-ups: Professional maintenance ensures your furnace or heat pump is in top working order before winter hits. Annual inspections help identify and fix small issues before they become major problems.
- Change air filters: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, placing unnecessary strain on your furnace and increasing the risk of a breakdown. Replace your filters once every 30 to 90 days — especially during heavy-use seasons.
- Keep vents clear: Blocked vents and registers reduce airflow and make your heating system inefficient. Ensure furniture, rugs, or curtains do not obstruct your home’s heating vents.
- Monitor your thermostat: If your thermostat isn’t working properly or maintaining consistent temperatures, it could point to a problem with your heating system. Replacing old batteries and testing your thermostat regularly can prevent malfunctions.
- Check for drafts: Cold air seeping into your home can hinder your furnace’s performance and efficiency. Use weather stripping and insulation to minimize heat loss and maintain a stable indoor temperature.
- Listen for noises: Strange sounds like banging, rattling, or whistling from your furnace can indicate underlying issues. Addressing these warning signs early can prevent sudden breakdowns.
Tips for Staying Warm When Your Heat Stops
If your heating equipment fails in sub-zero conditions, it’s important to take immediate action to retain heat while waiting for emergency services. Here’s what to do to keep warm:
- Call for emergency heating repair: The quicker you contact a professional, the sooner your heat will be restored. Don’t wait — call right away for immediate assistance.
- Stay in one room: Choose a well-insulated area, preferably with few windows, and keep doors closed to trap heat. Gather family members to share body heat.
- Dress in layers: Wear thermal clothing, sweaters, and extra socks to conserve body heat. Using blankets and sleeping bags can provide additional insulation.
- Cover windows and doors: Use blankets, towels, or bubble wrap to block drafts coming through windows and doors. Heavy curtains can also help retain warmth.
- Use safe alternative heat sources: Electric space heaters can provide temporary warmth but should be used with caution to prevent fire hazards. Never use ovens or gas stoves for heating.
- Seal any gaps: Use towels or blankets to seal the bottoms of doors and cover any gaps where cold air might enter.
- Use candles for warmth: While candles won’t replace a furnace, they can generate small amounts of heat. Be sure to place them in safe, fireproof holders and never leave them unattended.
Call Home Comfort for Emergency Heating Repair
If your furnace or heat pump stops working during sub-zero temperatures, don’t wait to get the immediate repairs you need to regain total comfort. Home Comfort offers 24/7 emergency heating repair services throughout Chicago and the surrounding region, ensuring your heating system gets back to full functionality fast. We specialize in diagnosing and fixing heating system failures quickly and efficiently, offering upfront pricing and financing options to help take the stress out of your sudden system malfunctions.
Book same-day heating repair in the Northside by contacting our team online to get started!
