No heat in the home during winter
Do This Now
- Check the thermostat — ensure it is set to "Heat" and the set point is above room temperature, and replace batteries
- Check the furnace filter — a plugged filter trips the high-limit safety switch; replace if dirty
- Check that the furnace power switch (looks like a light switch on the furnace or nearby wall) is ON
- Check the electrical panel for a tripped breaker labeled "Furnace" or "Air Handler"
- Check that the gas supply valve behind the furnace is open (handle parallel to the pipe)
- Look for error codes on the furnace control board (flashing LED patterns — see the chart inside the furnace door)
- If you cannot restore heat within 30 minutes, call a heating technician immediately
- As a temporary measure, close off rooms and use space heaters — never use a gas range or BBQ indoors for heat
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to help prevent pipe freezing
Common Causes
- Failed hot surface igniter (most common, $150-300 repair)
- Dirty or failed flame sensor causing ignition lockout
- Clogged furnace filter triggering high-limit shutdown
- Tripped pressure switch due to blocked condensate drain (high-efficiency furnaces)
- Failed inducer motor
- Cracked heat exchanger (serious — requires replacement)
- Gas valve failure
- Control board failure
When to Call a Pro
- Immediately when indoor temperature drops below 15°C — pipes can freeze at 0°C
- Any time the furnace will not restart after checking the filter and thermostat
- If you smell gas near the furnace — treat as a gas leak emergency first
Alberta Gas Fitting Regulations
All gas line and appliance work in Alberta must be performed by a holder of a valid Gas Fitting Certificate issued under the Safety Codes Act. Unlicensed gas work is illegal and voids home insurance.
As ticketed journeyperson plumbers, we hold gas fitting certification — one call covers both trades. We serve Innisfail, Red Deer County, and all of Central Alberta.
Alberta Context
ATCO Gas distributes natural gas to Innisfail, Olds, Lacombe, and most Central AB municipalities. If the issue is gas supply (no gas anywhere in the home), call ATCO at 1-800-511-3447 first. All furnace gas valve and burner work requires a certified gas fitter in Alberta. Keep a note of your furnace model and serial number — it speeds up parts sourcing significantly.