how to heat your house when your furnace breaks

Don’t let a broken furnace leave you in the cold. Follow our expert guide and learn how to heat your house when your furnace breaks with alternative methods.

With our helpful tips and techniques, you’ll be able to stay warm and comfortable until your furnace is repaired. So why suffer through the cold? Let’s get started and keep your home cozy!

As the temperature drops during the winter months, the last thing you want to happen is for your furnace to break down. 

When this happens, it can be frustrating and stressful, but it’s essential to have a backup plan to heat your house when your furnace breaks.

This article will guide you through some practical solutions to heat your house when your furnace breaks down.

Identify the issue with your furnace

The first step is to identify the issue with your furnace. If your furnace is not working, there could be many reasons.

Before calling a technician, there are some things you can check yourself to avoid unnecessary repair bills. 

Here are some signs that your furnace is malfunctioning or not working at all:

• The furnace is making unusual noises

• The pilot light is out

• The furnace is not producing heat

• The furnace is producing an unusual odor

If you notice any of these signs, you should check the air filter first. 

A dirty filter can cause your furnace to malfunction, and you can replace it easily. 

Also, ensure that your furnace has power, and the thermostat is set correctly. 

If these steps don’t solve the issue, call a technician.

Short-term solutions

If your furnace breaks down, you may need to find short-term solutions to keep your home warm while waiting for repairs. 

Here are some practical solutions:

Use space heaters: 

Portable electric heaters can provide warmth to the room you’re in. Make sure you choose a safe and energy-efficient model.

Electric blankets: 

These are a great way to stay warm when sleeping or watching TV.

Heated clothing: 

You can buy heated clothing, such as gloves, hats, and socks, which can keep you warm and cosy.

However, when using these alternatives, it’s important to follow safety guidelines. 

Keep the heaters away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended. 

Also, make sure you turn them off when you’re not using them.

Long-term solutions

Repairing or replacing your furnace is the best long-term solution to heat your house when your furnace breaks.

If your furnace is more than ten years old and it breaks down, it’s time to consider a replacement. 

Here are some things to consider when replacing your furnace:

Choose the right type of furnace for your home: 

There are several types of furnaces, such as gas, electric, and oil. Choose one that is energy-efficient and suits your home’s needs.

Hire a professional: 

Furnace installation is not a DIY project. Hire a professional to install it to ensure it’s installed correctly and safely.

Maintain your furnace: 

Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your furnace. 

Change your air filters regularly, and schedule annual inspections.

Energy-saving tips

To heat your house when your furnace breaks can be expensive, but there are ways to reduce your heating bill without sacrificing comfort. 

Here are some energy-saving tips:

Insulate your home: 

Insulating your home can keep the heat inside and reduce heat loss. Add insulation to your attic, walls, and crawl spaces.

Seal air leaks: 

Air leaks around doors and windows can let cold air in and warm air out. Seal these leaks with weatherstripping or caulk.

Lower the thermostat: 

Lowering the thermostat by a few degrees can save you a lot of money. 

Use a programmable thermostat to set the temperature to lower at night and when you’re not at home.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, when your furnace breaks down, it’s important to have a backup plan to heat your house when your furnace breaks.

Short-term solutions, such as space heaters and electric blankets, can provide warmth until your furnace is fixed or replaced.

When choosing a long-term solution, consider the type of furnace that is right for your home and hire a professional to install it to ensure it’s installed correctly and safely. 

Additionally, regular maintenance of your furnace can prevent breakdowns and extend its lifespan, so make sure to change air filters and schedule annual inspections.

Finally, by implementing energy-saving tips, you can save money on your heating bill without sacrificing your comfort. 

Insulating your home, sealing air leaks, and lowering the thermostat are all simple steps you can take to reduce your energy usage.

By following the advice in this article, you can stay warm and comfortable when your furnace breaks down. 

Remember to prioritise safety when using alternative heating sources and consider the long-term solutions for a reliable and efficient heating system.

FAQ:

Q: Can I fix my furnace myself?

A: In most cases, it’s not recommended to try to fix your furnace yourself. Furnaces are complex systems that require a professional’s expertise to diagnose and repair correctly. Attempting to fix your furnace yourself can be dangerous and may cause further damage to your furnace. If your furnace breaks down, it’s best to call a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Q: Are space heaters safe to use?

A: Space heaters can be a safe and effective way to heat your house when your furnace breaks temporarily, but you must use them correctly. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep the space heater away from flammable materials. Never leave a space heater unattended and turn it off when you leave the room. Also, make sure to choose a space heater with safety features, such as overheating protection and a tip-over switch.

Q: How can I tell if my furnace needs to be replaced?

A: If your furnace is over ten years old, it’s time to consider replacing it, especially if it breaks down frequently. Other signs that your furnace needs to be replaced include increasing energy bills, frequent repairs, and uneven heating throughout your home. A professional technician can assess your furnace’s condition and help you decide if a replacement is necessary.