February brings the coldest temperatures of the year, and when your furnace stops working, it can turn your home into a chilly challenge. If you’re experiencing issues, you’re not alone—many homeowners in the region rely on expert heating in the Finger Lakes to keep their homes safe and warm during harsh winter weather. At Potter Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we understand the stress a sudden furnace failure can cause, and we’re here to guide you through what to do if your heating system goes cold.
Why Furnaces Fail in Extreme Cold
Furnaces are built to handle winter temperatures, but extreme cold can still create problems. Common issues include frozen pipes, clogged filters, or pilot light failures in older models. Thermostat malfunctions or a tripped circuit breaker can also prevent your furnace from producing heat. In some cases, prolonged cold snaps strain your furnace beyond its normal capacity, causing it to shut down as a safety precaution. Recognizing these warning signs early can prevent a small issue from turning into a full heating emergency.
Immediate Troubleshooting Steps
If your furnace suddenly stops working, there are a few quick steps you can take:
- Check the thermostat – Ensure it’s set to “heat” and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature.
- Inspect the air filter – Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow, causing furnaces to overheat and shut down.
- Examine the pilot light or ignition system – For older furnaces, a pilot light that’s gone out can stop heat production. Modern units may have an electronic ignition to check.
- Reset the system – Switch the furnace off, wait a few minutes, then turn it back on. Sometimes a simple reset restores function.
- Check power and gas supply – Make sure your furnace has electricity and your gas line is open.
Safety Precautions
Never ignore strange smells or unusual noises from your furnace, as these may indicate dangerous conditions such as gas leaks or electrical malfunctions. Keep flammable materials away from the furnace area, and if you detect a gas odor, evacuate immediately and call emergency services. Using a furnace in poor condition can put your home and family at serious risk, so always err on the side of caution.
When to Call for 24/7 Heating Repair
If the above steps don’t restore warmth, it’s time to call in a professional. At Potter Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we provide 24/7 heating repair for the Finger Lakes, especially during cold snaps when every hour counts. Our certified technicians can diagnose complex problems quickly, replace damaged components, and ensure your system runs efficiently all winter long.
Benefits of Professional Service
Professional service isn’t just about fixing immediate problems—it protects your furnace from future breakdowns, improves energy efficiency, and keeps your home safe. Regular maintenance ensures that even during February’s harshest cold, your heating system performs reliably, giving you peace of mind. Trust our team to get your furnace back up and running fast, so you can stay warm and worry-free all winter.
Contact Potter Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today. Superior Service Beyond Compare!