When is a Heating Issue an Emergency?

Many HVAC companies offer emergency repair services for those truly chilly nights when the heat won't work or when there is something happening that may be a danger. However, higher rates can incur which leaves people wondering if their problem is really an emergency or if they can wait until the morning.

In truth, it all depends on the circumstances. If your heat shut off in the early hours of the morning, you may wake up to a chilly home, but typically you can wait until normal service hours to call a repair technician. However, the longer the heat is off, and the colder it is outside, will dictate an emergency. It is not just about you being cold either. Without heating, your home is at risk. If your home gets too cold, you may have pipes freezing, and bursting – thus causing even more damage.

So, if your heat stops early on of a very cold night, it can certainly be classified as being an emergency. However, usually heating emergencies come in the form of gas furnaces. A gas leak can be a deadly hazard. Furthermore, a damaged furnace could also cause carbon monoxide to leak in your home. If you hear strange noises coming from your furnace, or notice strange smells, you should immediately discontinue use and call for repair as it is always best to err on the side of caution. If it is particularly cold, you will then also want to make an emergency call to your HVAC company.

Most cases will allow you to be able to wait until normal service hours. And, it will also depend on the temperature when it comes to dictating whether it is an emergency. You will, however, want to mention specific issues to your HVAC company even when you do call during normal hours. This will allow them to prioritize your issue if their technicians are particularly busy, which can happen during the winter when everyone has furnace problems.

Find yourself in an HVAC emergency? Please call us immediately. Kent Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. ensures that our emergency service is available 24/7/365.