What to Do If Your Heat Stops Working: A Homeowner’s Guide

When the Heat Goes Out, Don’t Panic

Few things are more stressful than waking up to a cold home on a winter morning — especially right before the holidays. Whether it’s a minor thermostat issue or a major system failure, losing heat is never convenient.

At All Airs Home Services, we know that heating problems always seem to happen at the worst times. That’s why we provide fast, reliable HVAC repairs for homeowners across Marietta, Kennesaw, Cartersville, and the greater Metro Atlanta area.

If your heat suddenly stops working, here’s what you can do to stay safe, troubleshoot the issue, and get your system back up and running fast.


1. Check Your Thermostat Settings First

Before assuming your system is broken, double-check the basics:

  • Make sure the thermostat is set to “heat” mode.
  • Confirm that the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature.
  • Replace the batteries if it’s a digital thermostat.

Sometimes, thermostat miscommunication is the only issue — and that’s an easy fix.


2. Inspect Your Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to overheat and shut off as a safety measure.

If your system isn’t producing heat, remove the air filter and check for heavy dust or debris. Replace it with a clean one and restart the system.

Pro tip: Replace filters every 30–60 days during peak heating and cooling seasons to prevent this problem in the future.


3. Check the Power and Breaker

If your system is completely unresponsive (no fan, no sound, no lights), the issue could be electrical.

  • Make sure your HVAC disconnect switch (usually near the indoor unit) is turned on.
  • Check your home’s breaker panel for a tripped breaker and reset it if necessary.

If it trips again immediately, do not keep resetting it — that’s a sign of an electrical issue that needs professional attention.


4. Look Outside (for Heat Pumps)

If you have a heat pump, go outside and check the outdoor unit.

  • Make sure it’s free of debris, leaves, or ice buildup.
  • Listen for unusual noises or a constant humming sound.

If the unit is frozen or covered in ice, shut it off at the thermostat and call All Airs Home Services for service. Continuing to run it could cause compressor damage.


5. Listen for Unusual Sounds

If the system runs but isn’t producing heat — or makes loud banging, grinding, or screeching noises — turn it off immediately. These sounds may indicate a failing blower motor, loose belt, or damaged bearings.

Running the unit in this condition can cause more damage. Our licensed HVAC technicians can quickly diagnose the problem and provide same-day repairs.


6. Don’t Ignore Burning Smells or Smoke

A faint burning smell is normal the first time you turn on the heat each season (as dust burns off). But if the odor is strong, metallic, or accompanied by smoke, turn off your system right away.

Call All Airs Home Services for an inspection. Electrical burning smells can signal overheating components or wiring issues — both serious safety concerns.


7. Call for Professional Help

If you’ve checked the basics and your system still isn’t heating, it’s time to bring in the experts.

All Airs Home Services offers fast, reliable repairs for:

  • Heat pumps
  • Furnaces
  • Split systems
  • Central HVAC units

Our technicians arrive equipped to diagnose and fix most issues on the spot, so you can get your home warm again without long wait times.


Why Metro Atlanta Homeowners Choose All Airs

  • Locally owned & operated — we live where we work
  • Licensed & insured technicians trained in all major HVAC systems
  • Upfront pricing with no surprise fees
  • Fast, same-day repairs in Marietta, Kennesaw, Cartersville & surrounding areas
  • Honest service focused on safety, comfort, and reliability

Whether your system needs a quick fix or a full replacement, our goal is to get your home warm again — fast.


Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter

Losing heat can be stressful, but help is just a call away. The faster you act, the easier and more affordable the fix is likely to be.

Contact All Airs Home Services today for emergency heating repair in Metro Atlanta and keep your family safe and comfortable this winter season.