What to Do If Your Heat Stops Working During a Snowstorm

When a winter storm hits southeastern Pennsylvania, it hits hard.
Heavy snow. Bitter cold. Roads locked up.

And then it happens.
The heat stops.

If you’re a homeowner in Coatesville, Broomall, or the surrounding areas, this guide is for you. Not theory. Not fluff. Real steps you can take right now to protect your home and your family when your heating system quits during a snowstorm.

Take a breath.
Then start here.

Step 1: Check the Simple Things First

When temperatures drop fast, even a small issue can shut a system down.

Before you panic, check these four things.

Thermostat

• Make sure it’s set to Heat, not Cool or Off

• Raise the temperature at least five degrees above the room temperature

• If it’s battery powered, replace the batteries

You’d be surprised how often this solves it.

Circuit Breaker or Emergency Switch

• Look for a tripped breaker tied to the furnace or boiler

• Check the emergency shutoff switch near the unit. It may look like a light switch

If it’s off, turn it on once. Do not keep flipping it.

Air Filter

• A clogged filter can cause the furnace to shut down as a safety measure

• If it’s dirty, replace it

During snowstorms, systems run longer. Filters clog faster.

Vents and Registers

• Make sure vents are not blocked by rugs, furniture, or snow infiltration near exterior walls

• Closed vents increase system strain during extreme cold

If none of this restores heat, stop there.

Step 2: Do Not Keep Restarting the System

This is where many homeowners make things worse.

If your furnace or boiler:

• Tries to start but shuts off

• Makes loud banging, grinding, or screeching noises

• Smells like burning metal or oil

• Will not ignite at all

Do not keep resetting it.

Repeated restarts can damage motors, control boards, and ignition components. That turns a manageable repair into a bigger problem.

Step 3: Protect Your Home While You Wait

If the heat is out and temperatures are dropping, your next priority is preventing damage.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Open cabinet doors under sinks

• Let faucets drip slightly

• Keep interior doors open to circulate warmer air

Homes in Coatesville and Broomall with older plumbing layouts or exterior walls are especially vulnerable during long cold snaps.

Contain Heat

• Close blinds and curtains

• Block drafty doors with towels

• Stay in one or two rooms if needed

Avoid using ovens or grills for heat. That creates a carbon monoxide risk.

Step 4: Expect Slower Response Times During Snowstorms

This part matters.

During major snow events:

• Roads are hazardous

• Call volume spikes

• Emergency calls are prioritized by safety risk

A good HVAC company will still respond. But transparency matters.

If a company explains:

• When they can safely reach you

• What temporary steps you can take

• What emergency service includes

That’s a good sign.

If they overpromise during a storm, be cautious.

Why Heating Systems Fail During Snowstorms

Furnaces and boilers rarely fail without warning. Extreme cold simply pushes them over the edge.

Common storm-related causes include:

• Worn ignitors that cannot handle long run times

• Dirty flame sensors shutting systems down

• Frozen or blocked exhaust pipes from snow buildup

• Electrical issues caused by power fluctuations

This is why many breakdowns happen during the coldest nights.

When to Call for Emergency Heating Service

Call immediately if:

• Indoor temperatures are dropping quickly

• You have elderly family members, children, or medical needs

• You smell gas or burning odors

• Your system will not run at all

Waiting can lead to frozen pipes, water damage, or full system failure.

After the Storm: What Homeowners Should Do Next

Once the storm passes, do not forget what just happened.

A system that failed during extreme cold is likely stressed. Even if it comes back on, it may fail again.

A post-storm inspection can:

• Identify worn components

• Prevent repeat breakdowns

• Restore efficiency for the rest of winter

That small step now often avoids a much bigger problem later.

Final Thought for Homeowners

Winter in southeastern Pennsylvania is not forgiving.
Snowstorms don’t care how old your furnace is or how busy life gets.

If your heat stops working, move quickly.
Stay safe.
Protect your home.

And get help before a small issue turns into an emergency. Call DiBiase Heating and Colling Company today.