Emergency HVAC Tips: What to Do While Waiting for Service

When your HVAC system fails—especially during a heatwave or winter freeze—the minutes stretch and worries pile up. At Best Indy HVAC, we know the wait for emergency repair can feel endless. Your comfort, safety, and property are on the line.

Don’t panic. There are smart, safe steps you can take right now. Let’s walk through exactly what to do until help arrives.

First Steps: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation 🛑

Before you do anything else, take a deep breath. Panic never fixes a furnace.

• Is your system completely off, making strange noises, or dripping water?
• Are some rooms hotter or colder than others?
• Is there a burning smell or visible smoke?

Quickly scan your surroundings and note anything out of the ordinary. If you smell gas, hear popping, or see sparks, evacuate and call 911 immediately.

Safety Precautions: Protect What Matters Most

Your safety comes first. HVAC emergencies can involve electrical hazards, gas leaks, or even carbon monoxide.

• Turn off the system: If safe, switch off your HVAC at the thermostat. For furnace or AC issues, you can also turn off the breaker.
• Check for water leaks: Look for puddles near indoor equipment or drips from ceiling vents. Water can lead to mold or structural damage.
• Ventilate if needed: If you smell burnt wires or chemicals, open windows and doors. Don’t re-enter the home until it’s safe.
• Carbon monoxide safety: If your detectors go off, leave immediately. The CDC warns that carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and deadly.

Common Emergencies and What You Can Do

HVAC systems are complex—like the heart and lungs of your home. Some problems are minor. Others are true emergencies. Here’s what to watch for:

• No heat in winter: Bundle up. Gather extra blankets and use safe space heaters. Avoid using kitchen stoves or open flames for warmth.
• No AC in summer: Close blinds, use fans, and drink water. Move to the coolest room. Infants, elderly, and pets are most at risk.
• Strange noises: Grinding or banging may mean broken parts. Turn off the system to prevent further damage.
• Water leaks: Place towels or buckets under leaks. Shut off water supply to humidifiers or dehumidifiers if you can.
• Strange smells: Chemical, burning, or rotten egg odors can signal electrical or gas issues. Evacuate if in doubt.

Quick Safety Checklist

• [ ] Power off the HVAC system if possible.
• [ ] Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
• [ ] Look for water, smoke, or sparks.
• [ ] Avoid DIY fixes on electrical or gas components.
• [ ] Move vulnerable people and pets to a safe area.

DIY vs. When to Call a Pro

It’s tempting to tinker. But modern HVAC systems are more like a high-tech orchestra than a simple box fan.

Safe to try:

• Replace thermostat batteries.
• Check and change air filters.
• Reset breakers.

Leave to pros:

• Anything involving gas, refrigerant, or electrical work.
• Opening panels or removing components.
• Diagnosing leaks or strange odors.

If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and call for help. For real emergencies, our 24-hour emergency service is always available.

What Pros Do On Arrival

You might wonder, what happens when the technician walks through your door? At Best Indy HVAC, our pros:

• Inspect for immediate dangers (gas, water, electrical).
• Use diagnostic tools to pinpoint the problem.
• Follow state and local code guidelines (like those from the National Fire Protection Association and ASHRAE).
• Explain findings and next steps clearly—no jargon, just plain talk.

Seasonal Considerations: Winter Freezes and Summer Heatwaves ❄️

Extreme weather turns HVAC outages from inconvenience to emergency. Here’s how to handle the most intense seasons:

Winter:

• Keep faucets dripping to prevent frozen pipes.
• Block drafts with towels.
• Use portable, UL-listed space heaters—but never leave them unattended.

Summer:

• Stay hydrated.
• Use ceiling fans set to spin counterclockwise.
• Avoid ovens and stoves.

Both seasons: Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or hypothermia. If anyone feels ill, seek medical help.

Signs of Trouble: Know Before It Gets Worse

Like a creaky floorboard before it breaks, early warning signs matter.

• Frequent cycling on/off
• Weak airflow
• Unusual odors
• Thermostat not responding
• Rising energy bills without increased usage

Notice any of these? Schedule a checkup before it turns into an emergency. For regular HVAC Repair, we’re ready to help.

Prevent Further Damage: What Not to Do

Sometimes the best action is knowing what NOT to do.

• Don’t use extension cords on HVAC equipment.
• Don’t pour water on a hot furnace.
• Don’t cover vents or block airflow.
• Don’t ignore warning lights or error codes.

Trying to “force” your system to work can lead to costlier repairs or hazards.

Preventing Emergencies: Preparedness Pays Off

While you can’t predict every breakdown, you can reduce risk:

• Schedule regular heating repair and maintenance.
• Replace filters monthly or as recommended.
• Keep vents clear of dust and obstructions.
• Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors near HVAC equipment.
• Keep your HVAC manual and breaker map handy.

Consider a home energy audit or indoor air quality test for extra peace of mind. Look for “Geothermal near you” if you’re interested in more efficient and reliable systems.

When to Evacuate

Some situations require immediate evacuation:

• Gas leaks (rotten egg smell)
• Electrical fire or smoke
• Carbon monoxide detector alarms

Don’t wait. Get outside, call emergency services, and only return once professionals say it’s safe.

Timeline & Disruption: How Long Will This Take?

We know waiting is tough. Most emergency repairs are handled within hours, but severe weather or part shortages can extend wait times.

• Keep your phone nearby for updates.
• Have a backup plan for staying elsewhere if extreme temperatures persist.
• Communicate with family or building occupants about the situation.

Materials & Equipment to Have Ready

A small kit can make a big difference during an outage:

• Flashlight (with spare batteries)
• Extra blankets or portable fans
• Fresh air filters
• Bottled water and snacks
• List of emergency contacts (including your utility provider)

Costs & What to Expect

Emergency service may cost more than standard calls—especially after hours or on holidays. Most reputable companies provide upfront estimates before starting work. Insurance may cover some damages (like water leaks), so keep photos and notes for your records.

Common Mistakes During HVAC Emergencies

• Ignoring warning signs until it’s too late
• Attempting risky DIY repairs
• Forgetting to turn off breakers or gas
• Blocking air returns with furniture or boxes

Avoiding these mistakes keeps your household—and your HVAC system—safer.

FAQ: Answers to Your Top Emergency HVAC Questions

Q: Is it safe to stay home without AC or heat?
A: It depends. If indoor temperatures become extreme, seek shelter elsewhere—especially if you have young children, elderly, or pets.

Q: Can I use my oven or stove to heat my home?
A: Never. This is a major fire and carbon monoxide risk.

Q: How soon can a technician arrive?
A: We respond as quickly as possible, especially for 24-hour emergencies. Wait times may vary during storms or high demand.

Local Help When You Need It Most

For those searching for reliable hvac services, you can always find experienced help in your area. If you’re looking for a trusted hvac company, see our hvac contractor page for more information.

No one wants to face an HVAC emergency. But with the right steps, you can protect your home and loved ones while waiting for help.

Call Best Indy HVAC now — or reach us anytime at  855-525-5859 .