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🚨Emergency Checklist

Is Your HVAC Situation an Emergency?

Answer 3 quick questions to find out if you need to call right now.

What is your HVAC issue right now?

Select the option that best describes your situation.

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What Counts as an HVAC Emergency?

Not every HVAC problem is an emergency — but some absolutely are. A true HVAC emergency is any situation that poses a safety risk, threatens major equipment damage, or makes your home unlivable. Here's what to watch for:

  • ▲Gas or burning smell — Turn off your system immediately and call 911 if you smell gas. A burning electrical smell means a component is overheating.
  • ▲No heat below 32°F — Frozen pipes can burst within hours. This is an emergency if outdoor temps are at or below freezing.
  • ▲No cooling during extreme heat — Heat stroke risk for elderly, infants, or anyone with health conditions. Indoor temps over 90°F are dangerous.
  • ▲Carbon monoxide detector going off — Evacuate immediately. A cracked heat exchanger in a gas furnace can leak CO into your home.
  • ●Water actively leaking near electrical — A refrigerant line or condensate overflow near your electrical panel is a serious risk.

HVAC Emergency — Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately if I suspect an HVAC emergency?
First, turn off your system at the thermostat or the circuit breaker. If there is a gas smell, open windows and leave your home before calling your gas company. For electrical burning smells, cut power to the unit. Once safe, call a licensed HVAC technician.
Will HVAC companies respond after hours for emergencies?
Most licensed HVAC companies offer 24/7 emergency service. Expect to pay a higher after-hours or emergency dispatch fee, but it is almost always worth it to prevent further damage or safety risks.
My furnace is running but not producing heat — is this an emergency?
It depends on the outdoor temperature. If it's below freezing, yes — your pipes can freeze and burst within hours. If temperatures are moderate, it's urgent but not a same-day emergency. Check your filter first; a clogged filter is the most common cause.
How do I know if I have a refrigerant leak?
Signs of a refrigerant leak include hissing sounds from the outdoor unit, ice forming on the refrigerant line or evaporator coil, warm air blowing from vents despite the system running, and a gradual loss of cooling performance. Refrigerant leaks require a licensed technician — it is illegal to handle refrigerant without certification.