When Is HVAC an Emergency? Knowing When to Call

Emergency HVAC service typically costs more than regular appointments. Knowing what's a true emergency helps you make the right call—and save money.

TRUE Emergencies - Call Immediately

Gas Smell If you smell gas (rotten egg odor), this is a safety emergency: - Leave the house - Don't flip switches or create sparks - Call your gas company first - Then call for HVAC service

Carbon Monoxide Alarm If your CO detector sounds: - Evacuate immediately - Call 911 - Don't re-enter until cleared by professionals - Have the furnace inspected before restarting

No Heat in Freezing Temperatures If pipes could freeze, heating failure becomes urgent. While the Bay Area rarely freezes, if temperatures drop that low, act quickly.

Electrical Burning Smell or Sparks Turn off the system at the breaker and call for service. This is a fire risk.

Water Leaking Extensively If your AC or furnace is flooding, turn off the system and call for help to prevent water damage.

URGENT - Same-Day Service Preferred

No AC During Extreme Heat Especially if vulnerable people (elderly, very young, health conditions) are in the home.

Complete Heating Failure in Cold Weather Even if not freezing, extended cold exposure is a health concern.

Unusual Noises Suggesting Imminent Failure Grinding, screeching, or banging that suggests something is about to break.

CAN WAIT - Regular Appointment

Slight Reduction in Performance System still works but not as well as usual.

Minor Noises New sounds that aren't severe.

Thermostat Issues Not reaching exact temperature or minor inconsistencies.

Routine Maintenance Annual tune-ups don't need emergency scheduling.

Planning for Replacement If your system is aging but still works.

Saving on Emergency Calls

• Schedule maintenance to prevent emergencies
• Address small problems before they become big ones
• Know your system's quirks vs. real problems
• Have a relationship with a reliable contractor before you need one