No Heat? Here's What To Do
Step-by-step emergency guide for when your heating system fails
Call 778-909-5731 for Emergency ServiceSafety First
If you smell gas: Evacuate immediately. Don't turn lights on or off. Call FortisBC at 1-800-663-9911 or 911 from outside your home.
If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds: Leave immediately with all family members and pets. Call 911 from outside.
If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds: Leave immediately with all family members and pets. Call 911 from outside.
Quick Troubleshooting Steps
Try these steps before calling a technician
1
Check Your Thermostat
Mode: Make sure it's set to "Heat" not "Cool" or "Off"
Temperature: Set it at least 5°F above current room temperature
Fan: Try setting it to "On" instead of "Auto"
Batteries: Replace thermostat batteries if display is dim or blank
2
Check Your Circuit Breaker
Go to your electrical panel and look for the furnace/HVAC breaker
If it's tripped (in middle position or "Off"), flip it fully off then back on
If it trips again immediately, call a technician - don't keep resetting it
3
Check Your Furnace Switch
Look for a light switch near your furnace (often red or on wall nearby)
Make sure it's in the "On" position - it may have been accidentally turned off
This is a common issue that's easy to overlook
4
Check Your Air Filter
Locate your air filter (usually in return air grille or at furnace)
If it's dark gray or clogged, replace it immediately
Dirty filters are a leading cause of heating system failures
5
Check Gas Supply (If Gas Furnace)
Verify your gas supply valve near the furnace is fully open (parallel to pipe)
Check if other gas appliances (stove, water heater) are working
Don't attempt to relight pilot lights yourself - call a professional
When to Call a Technician Immediately
Call Right Away If:
- •You smell gas or unusual odors
- •You hear loud banging, grinding, or screeching
- •Your furnace cycles on and off rapidly
- •You see water leaking from boiler or furnace
- •Temperature is dropping below 55°F
- •The troubleshooting steps above didn't work
Why Fast Action Matters
Frozen Pipes: Pipes can freeze when indoor temperature drops below 55°F, causing thousands in damage.
Health Risks: Elderly, children, and those with health conditions are vulnerable to cold temperatures.
System Damage: Running a malfunctioning system can cause additional damage and more expensive repairs.
Staying Safe While Waiting for Repair
DO These Things:
- Use electric space heaters on level surfaces away from flammable materials
- Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to let warm air reach pipes
- Let faucets drip slightly to prevent pipe freezing
- Close off unused rooms to conserve heat
- Dress in layers and use blankets
DON'T Do These Things:
- Use your oven or stove to heat your home
- Use gas-powered generators, grills, or heaters indoors
- Leave space heaters unattended or near children/pets
- Try to repair gas lines or furnace components yourself
- Ignore warning signs - get professional help
Still No Heat? Call Us Now
Our licensed technicians are available 24/7 to diagnose and fix your heating emergency.
Call 778-909-5731This website is a specialized emergency HVAC resource operated as a division of ROMA Heating & Cooling, proudly serving Greater Vancouver since 1999.