A furnace problem becomes an emergency when it creates an immediate safety concern or leaves your home without reliable heat during dangerously cold weather. A complete loss of heat during freezing temperatures can put occupants at risk and may also leave plumbing and other parts of the home vulnerable as indoor temperatures fall.
Problems involving smoke, electrical burning odors, overheating components, or repeated system shutdowns can also require urgent attention. A suspected natural gas leak or active carbon monoxide alarm is different: leave the building immediately and contact emergency services or your gas utility rather than remaining inside and waiting for furnace service.