If you’re one of the 60% of households using a furnace for heat each winter, unfortunately, there’s a chance your unit might die on you at some point.
Depending on whether it’s fully lifeless or just in a deep sleep, you might be able to DIY a solution. Or, you might need to call in a pro…
Furnace Repair Basics
If you’d like to try your hand before hauling in a handyman, here’s what you’ll want to do:
Check for Gas Leaks
First things first: If you have a gas furnace, you’ll need to be absolutely sure that it’s not leaking.
The natural gas in your home has a sulfuric compound mixed in. This means that, if it smells like rotten eggs, you could have a major emergency on your hand.
If you suspect a gas leak, you should evacuate your home immediately and follow the guidance of your local authorities.
If you’re absolutely sure there’s no rotten egg smell in your case, or if you have an electric furnace, you can move on to the next step.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
To get started, make sure the thermostat is set correctly.
This process will be a little bit different for everyone, based on what kind of system you have. But, in general, the thermostat should be displaying the current temperature and indicate that it’s in “heat mode.”
If the temperature was turned down or the mode was changed somehow, see if you can switch it back to fix the issue.
Check the Power Supply
If the thermostat isn’t on at all, or if simple changes don’t seem to fix the problem, it’s time to check the power supply.
First, find the electrical panel. This is the metal box containing all your home’s circuit breakers.
Find the circuit breaker labeled “furnace” or “heater.” Make sure this circuit breaker is switched “on.”
Try Resetting the Furnace
If you’re still having issues, you might need to reset the furnace entirely.
It’s important to work carefully here, as the unit may be hot.
If your furnace is gas, first make sure the pilot light is out, then turn the temperature setting as low as possible. Head back to the circuit box and turn off the furnace breaker. Turn the main gas supply off, too. Relight the pilot light, then turn the circuit breaker and gas supply back on. Hold the “reset” button for 20-30 seconds and raise the temperature back up.
If your furnace is electric, turn the circuit breaker off via the circuit box. Press the “reset” button (usually located inside the blower compartment, on the side of the blower motor). Replace the cover of the blower compartment and turn the power back on.
Call a Professional
Sometimes, furnace repair is just too big a task. If you’ve tried all the above and it’s still not budging, it might be time to call in a pro.
If you don’t already have a guy on speed dial, take to the web. You’re probably looking for someone labeled an “HVAC technician.”
Time might be of the essence here, so you may not be able to request a letter of rec. But definitely check their licensing and insurance status. A quick peek at any publicly available reviews can’t hurt, either.
Once you’ve gotten a few good candidates, ask for a written estimate. Remember: The cheapest option isn’t always the best one!
Use your discretion to hire the best possible candidate and get a repair on the schedule.
Stay Warm While You Wait!
Whether you have to wait a few hours or a few days, you’ll want to keep warm!
Here are some tried-and-true tips from Consumer Reports:
- Try to stay in a Southern-facing room. This way, you can take advantage of the sunlight. If you can, gather the whole family here, for collective heat.
- Seal up any drafty windows or doors. Ideally, you would use caulk, weatherstripping, or draft guards here. But, in a pinch, duct tape, clear plastic sheeting, towels, or blankets could work, too.
- Use another heat source, if possible. A generator, fireplace, or portable heater could make all the difference. Just be sure to follow all safety protocols. This includes steering clear of flammable materials, using working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and more.
If it’s still just too cold, don’t hesitate to do what’s best for your family. That might include crashing at a relative’s house or getting a hotel room.
Wrapping Up: Furnace Repair Tips and Tricks
Long story short, if your furnace has died, don’t sweat just yet!
You may be able to DIY a solution but, when in doubt, it doesn’t hurt to call in a pro. After all, if you find someone you truly trust, you can heat your home in full confidence year after year. Now there’s a cozy thought!
Published on November 4, 2025
