Here’s When to Call for Emergency Heating Repair

8 Heating Scenarios That Require Immediate Attention 

Winter’s chill can make heating failures more than just an inconvenience—they can become serious health and safety risks. At Bob’s Heating, we offer 24-hour emergency heating repair to Issaquah and surrounding areas, so your family stays safe and warm no matter what. 

Not sure if your situation qualifies as a “heating emergency”? Here are some of the most common issues that might require urgent attention.

SEE ALSO: Top 5 Common Heating Problems and How to Prevent Them 

1. Furnace Failure

If your furnace suddenly shuts off or won’t turn on, that’s a major red flag. Some possible causes include the following:

• A faulty pilot light or ignition
• Broken thermostat
• Electrical issues

Ignoring these issues could lead to more extensive (and costly) repairs, so it’s important to get repair service ASAP. 

2. Gas Leaks

A gas leak is one of the most serious heating emergencies you can face. If you notice a strong odor of sulfur or rotten eggs when you turn on the heat, it’s likely due to a gas leak. This situation requires immediate action, as leaking gas poses risks of explosions and serious health effects due to prolonged exposure.

What to do: Shut off the gas supply, evacuate your home, and call emergency services. After the area is safe, our team can address the issue and ensure your heating system operates safely again.

3. Carbon Monoxide Alarm Activation

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can result from a malfunctioning gas-powered heating system. Exposure to this gas can lead to headaches, dizziness, and even life-threatening conditions. If your carbon monoxide alarms go off:

• Evacuate everyone from your home immediately
• Call emergency services for guidance

Our technicians can inspect your heating system, repair any issues, and return your heating system to safe operation.

4. Unusual Banging, Rattling, and Other Noises 

Is your furnace or heat pump making strange sounds? Noises like banging, whining, or rattling often signal that something is wrong. (Note: rattling noises are very common in radiator heating systems, especially older ones, but are not normal for forced air systems). 

Unusual sounds in furnaces or heat pumps can be symptoms of loose components or failing parts, including a damaged blower wheel, failing motor bearings, or cracked heat exchanger. Ignoring these noises can worsen the damage, potentially leading to a complete system breakdown.

5. Cold Air Blowing 

If your air ducts are blowing cold air through vents, it’s time to call for help. This issue may stem from:

• A dirty or faulty flame sensor
• Blocked air ducts
• Issues with the blower motor

Not only will this leave your home uncomfortably cold, but it could also signal deeper issues within your system. Our technicians can identify and resolve the root cause to restore warmth to your home. 

6. Water Leaks

A leaking heating unit should never be ignored. Water leaks from your heating system may indicate problems with the heat exchanger or a cracked drain pan, both of which can lead to significant damage. Water leaks also pose electrical hazards, especially if they occur near any electrical components.

If you see water pooling around your heating system, get it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

7. Short Cycling

Short cycling occurs when your furnace frequently turns on and off in short intervals. This can be caused by issues with airflow, thermostat malfunctions, or clogged filters. Short cycling puts additional strain on your system, driving up energy costs and causing wear and tear on components.

Addressing short cycling early can save on energy bills and help your system last longer.

8. Health Risks

Even if your faulty heating system doesn’t feel like an ‘emergency,’ if someone in your household is elderly or has health issues, don’t hesitate to call. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures indoors can lead to hypothermia and other serious ailments. It’s not worth the risk! 

Need an Emergency Heating Repair? Contact Bob’s Now 

If you find yourself in any of these situations, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Bob’s Heating, we provide free estimates and 24/7 emergency service so you can get the care you need when you need it.

Call us at 800-840-3346 to schedule your emergency repair and let us bring comfort and safety back to your home.