Unless you are one of those people who has a strong sense of emergency-preparedness, you probably don’t think about the worst case scenario until it is staring you right in the face. This is a pretty common approach to homeownership and a big reason why we offer on-call emergency HVAC services, 24/7. Especially in the cold, potentially dangerous climate of Alaska, something like a broken furnace can’t wait until normal business hours. Read on to learn more about the kinds of HVAC emergencies many of our customers face, and why they make our emergency services so important!

Furnace Emergencies

1. Furnace Breakdown

When the furnace breaks down, nobody’s happy. Chilly homes lead to stressed inhabitants and difficult days. There are many reasons why a furnace might break down. The filters may be dirty, the pilot light may not be switching on, or maybe it’s just old and worn out. There could also be issues with the thermostat or it could be an electrical problem, such as a blown fuse or an issue with the internal circuitry. Whatever the case may be, a broken down furnace is a home emergency that requires professional assistance.

There is a lot you can do to mitigate the issue until a professional arrives. Read more in our blog, What do Do When Your Furnace Goes Out. Sometimes a furnace is not broken down, but simply wrestling with blocked or leaking ductwork or vents. The house may be cold because there is a blockage in the ductwork such as insulation or dirt, or you have accidentally covered your vents with furniture or a carpet. Check to make sure your furnace is actually broken down before you call a professional.

2. Gas Leak

Gas leaks are a big deal, they are dangerous and can cause explosions. Gas leaks are caused by a crack or a disconnection in the gas line. You can identify a gas leak if you smell gas in the house. If you are unfamiliar with the smell, it is most comparable to rotten eggs. If you suspect a gas leak in your home, call a professional immediately.

Air Conditioner Emergencies

3. Air Conditioner Breakdown

Air conditioning is not as big a deal in Alaska as heating. That said, an air conditioner breakdown is considered an emergency in many parts of the Lower 48. Causes are broad and varied. A leak in the refrigerant line may have caused the air conditioner to overrun and burn out. There could also be issues with the thermostat, an electrical, or a ventilation problem.

4. Water Leak

If you are in Alaska and you have an air conditioner, one of your biggest concerns should be a water leak. Water overflow can cause water damage to your home and spur the growth of mold and mildew. Water leaks occur when the condensate line in an air conditioner which is usually responsible for removing excess moisture is clogged due to dirt, algae, or rust. Signs of a clogged condensate line include visible water leak from the air conditioner, humidity in the air, or visible rust or mold on or around the unit. If you are experiencing these signs, be sure to call an HVAC professional to get your condensate line unclogged and stop the leak.

If you would like to take a proactive approach, the best way to take care of HVAC emergencies is avoid them in the first place! Scheduling routine maintenance on your furnace, ductwork, and air conditioner will help you identify small issues before they become major repairs or replacements that cost hundreds of dollars. Get in touch with a local HVAC professional today!