Here’s What to Do If Your Heat Isn’t Working

Earlier this month, the Northeast experienced one of the longest cold spells on record. During stretches like these, and any time throughout the winter months, it’s important to know what to do if your home unexpectedly loses heat.

While fuel run-outs and damaged heating system parts are common reasons for sudden heat loss, your heating configuration itself may not be to blame. Review the checklist below to help determine whether or not an issue with your heat automatically requires emergency service in terms of HVAC service or fuel delivery.

• Check the reading on your fuel tank gauge. Whether you are a will-call or automatic delivery customer, it is necessary to keep an eye on your tank’s fuel level throughout the winter. If your tank is empty or close to it, call (800) 628-1900 immediately to order fuel.
• Look at your thermostat. For homeowners with programmable thermostats, the fix may be something as simple as replacing your device’s batteries or adjusting its setting. See if the cooling function is on by mistake and/or if the batteries need replacement.
• Confirm that all heat-related switches are on. This includes the power switch on the side of your heating unit and the emergency switch. (The emergency switch should be located on the wall near your heating unit or at the top of your basement stairs.) If these switches are on and your heat is still not working, press the RESET button on your system one time.

• Assess your circuit breaker. Check that the circuit breaker is on and that the breaker for your heating system has not tripped. If the breaker to your heating system has been tripped, and if you feel comfortable doing so, reset the breaker.
  Note: Circuit breakers often trip for safety-related reasons. If you’ve reset the breaker one time and the issue has not been resolved, especially if you heat with gas, please contact Sandri or a licensed electrician for assistance.

If you’ve performed all of these steps and still do not have heat, call (800) 628-1900 right away. For non-emergency inquiries, request service anytime online.

How to Help Prevent Emergency Service Calls

Planning ahead for fuel deliveries and keeping up with routine heating system maintenance can dramatically reduce the risk of a heat-out emergency. Doing business with a full-service energy provider makes it easier to stay on top of the services that matter most when it comes to staying warm safely each winter.

• Sign up for automatic fuel delivery.
• Arrange for a heating system tune-up once a year.
• Address equipment repairs in a timely manner.
• Upgrade to an energy-efficient boiler or furnace.
• Enroll in a heating system service agreement.

If you have questions about any of these services or would like to learn more, contact Sandri here.