Saskatchewan winters are no joke. Temperatures can plunge well below –30°C, making your furnace not just a comfort, but a necessity for safety. A furnace failure in the dead of winter can be stressful but knowing what steps to take can protect your home, your system, and your family.

Here’s a practical guide for what to do if your furnace stops working during the extreme cold.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First, don’t panic. Take a moment to check if the issue is something simple, like a tripped breaker, a blown fuse, or a thermostat problem.

  • Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat”, and the temperature is above the current room temperature.
  • Check circuit breakers and switches to ensure the furnace has power.

Sometimes, a minor issue is all that’s keeping your furnace from turning on.

2. Keep Your Home Warm Safely

While waiting for a professional, focus on retaining heat indoors:

  • Close doors to unused rooms to conserve warmth. Gather together in a shared space.
  • Use blankets, warm clothing, and space heaters safely.
  • If you use a fireplace, ensure proper ventilation and never leave it unattended.

Important: Avoid using gas stoves or ovens for heating—they’re unsafe and can lead to carbon monoxide hazards.

3. Check for Obvious Blockages or Issues

Sometimes, furnaces fail due to airflow problems:

  • Make sure vents and returns aren’t blocked.
  • Check that the air filter isn’t completely clogged.

A quick fix like replacing a filter can sometimes get your furnace running again.

4. Call a Licensed HVAC Technician Immediately

At –30°C, time is critical. Contact a professional to inspect and repair your furnace. Experienced technicians can diagnose the problem safely and prevent further damage. 

  • Don’t attempt complicated repairs yourself, especially with gas or electric systems.
  • The longer a furnace stays off in extreme cold, the greater the risk of frozen pipes and property damage.

5. Prevent Future Breakdowns

Once your furnace is up and running again, take steps to minimize the risk of another winter emergency:

  • Schedule annual maintenance before the cold hits.
  • Replace filters regularly.
  • Consider a high-efficiency, reliable furnace if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan. With SaskEnergy’s high efficiency rebates, getting a new furnace is more affordable than ever.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Saskatchewan winters are brutal, and a furnace failure can quickly turn dangerous. Being prepared and knowing the right steps to take can make a stressful situation manageable.

✅ TemperatureProTip: Book your fall furnace inspection now so you can face the winter with confidence and warmth.