Few things feel worse than waking up to a freezing house when it’s –25 °C outside. Heating failures often happen at the worst times—overnight, weekends, or during deep cold warnings. Knowing what to do in those first few minutes can protect your family and prevent costly damage. Here’s how Saskatoon homeowners can handle furnace breakdowns safely and effectively.
Step 1 — Stay Safe and Check for Immediate Hazards
- Shut off the furnace if you smell gas or hear hissing.
- Check for carbon monoxide alarms.
- Keep windows slightly open for ventilation if you suspect exhaust leaks.
If a natural-gas odour is present, leave the home immediately and call SaskEnergy’s 24-hour emergency line (1-888-700-0427) from outside. Never relight pilot lights until a technician inspects the unit.
Step 2 — Verify Power and Thermostat Settings
- Confirm the thermostat is on Heat and batteries are working.
- Reset breakers or fuses.
- Test another electrical appliance on the same circuit.
Power surges or dead thermostat batteries are common culprits during winter storms. Always rule out small electrical issues before assuming a major furnace failure.
Step 3 — Check Filters and Air Intakes
- Clogged filters or blocked exterior vents can trigger automatic shut-offs.
- Remove ice buildup from outdoor PVC intake/exhaust pipes.
A restricted air supply prevents combustion and forces safety sensors to shut the system down. Clear obstructions carefully and replace dirty filters before restarting.
Step 4 — Prevent Freezing Damage While You Wait
- Close doors to unused rooms to retain heat.
- Open cabinet doors near plumbing.
- Use safe space heaters or fireplaces temporarily.
Never use an oven or barbecue for heating—these can cause CO poisoning.
Step 5 — Call Pro Service Mechanical’s 24/7 Emergency Line
When the furnace still won’t start, it’s time for professional help. Pro Service Mechanical’s licensed technicians are on call across Saskatoon day and night, fully equipped with diagnostic tools and replacement parts to restore heat quickly. We service all major furnace and boiler brands and comply with TSASK safety standards.
Prompt action makes all the difference during a winter heating emergency. Follow these steps, then contact Pro Service Mechanical for rapid, reliable service that keeps your home safe and warm—even on the coldest Saskatchewan nights.
📞 Call Pro Service Mechanical now for 24/7 emergency furnace repair in Saskatoon.
