When your heat goes out in the middle of winter, comfort quickly turns into concern. At Collier’s Comfort, we know how stressful a heating emergency can be, especially when temperatures drop fast. Homeowners relying on heating in Fort Wayne need to be prepared, informed, and ready to act when something doesn’t feel right. Knowing what qualifies as an emergency—and what to do next—can protect your home, your family, and your wallet. A fast response and the right information can make the difference between a quick fix and costly damage.
Below, we break down the most common heating emergencies, warning signs to watch for, and how our team is ready 24/7 when you need us most.
Common Emergency Heating Problems
Some heating issues can wait, but others require immediate attention. Common emergency heating problems include complete system failure, furnaces that won’t ignite, heat pumps blowing cold air, or systems that cycle on and off repeatedly. Frozen pipes caused by a lack of heat and gas furnace issues also fall into the emergency category. When your home can’t maintain safe indoor temperatures, it’s time to act quickly. Extended exposure to cold indoor temperatures can lead to plumbing damage, structural issues, and health risks—especially for children and seniors.
Warning Signs (Noise, Smells, Weak Airflow)
Your heating system often gives warning signs before a full breakdown. Loud banging, grinding, or screeching noises can signal loose or failing components. Unusual smells—especially burning, electrical, or gas odors—should never be ignored. Weak or uneven airflow may point to blower motor problems, clogged filters, or duct issues. If you notice any combination of noise, smells, or weak airflow, it’s best to take the situation seriously.
DIY Steps Before You Call
Before calling for emergency heating repair, there are a few safe steps you can check. Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and has fresh batteries. Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Confirm your circuit breakers haven’t tripped and that gas valves are open. These simple checks can resolve minor issues and help our technicians diagnose the problem faster if a service call is needed. If your system still isn’t working—or if anything smells or sounds off—stop troubleshooting and call a professional right away.
When Immediate Professional Help Is Needed
Some situations require immediate expert help. Gas smells, carbon monoxide alerts, electrical burning odors, or complete heat loss during freezing temperatures are all true emergencies. Continuing to run a malfunctioning system can cause further damage or pose safety risks. In these moments, fast, professional service is essential to protect your home and family.
How Collier’s Comfort Handles 24/7 Emergency Calls
At Collier’s Comfort, we treat heating emergencies with urgency and care. Our trained technicians are available 24/7, fully equipped to diagnose and repair most heating issues on the spot. We communicate clearly, offer honest recommendations, and focus on restoring warmth as quickly and safely as possible. When you call us, you’re never left waiting in the cold.
Contact Collier’s Comfort today for True Comfort, True Savings.