My furnace isn't working. Find me a company for furnace repair in Abbotsford.
When Your Home Loses Heat: A Quick Guide to Finding Help
My furnace isn't working. Find me a company for furnace repair in Abbotsford is a common search every winter as Fraser Valley temperatures drop. A malfunctioning furnace is more than uncomfortable—it can risk your family's safety and damage your home. If your furnace is blowing cold air, making strange noises, or won't turn on, you need fast, reliable help from professionals who know local climate and building codes.
Quick Steps to Take When Your Furnace Stops Working:
- Check your thermostat - Ensure it's set to "heat" and the temperature is above the current room temperature.
- Inspect the power supply - Confirm the furnace is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped.
- Look at your air filter - A clogged filter is a very common cause of furnace failure.
- Check the pilot light - On a gas furnace, make sure the pilot light is lit and burning blue.
- Call a professional - If these checks don't solve the problem, contact a licensed HVAC technician.
If you need immediate help, learn more about furnace services in the Fraser Valley or get in touch with our emergency team right away.
Most furnace problems require professional repair. Furnaces typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance, but lack of servicing, age, and improper installation are primary reasons for breakdowns. When your heating fails during an Abbotsford winter, you need a company that responds quickly, diagnoses accurately, and fixes the problem right the first time.

Telltale Signs Your Furnace Needs Professional Repair
Recognizing the signs of furnace trouble early can save you from a complete breakdown and costly repairs. Here are the most frequent indicators that it's time to call for professional help.
Unusual noises are a key sign. While furnaces aren't silent, new or loud sounds are a red flag. Banging or popping sounds could indicate issues with the igniter or heat exchanger. Squealing or whining noises often point to blower motor problems, like worn bearings or a loose belt. Any new, loud sound should be investigated.
Strange smells are another clear warning. A faint burning dust smell is common at first use as dust burns off. If it persists, it could mean a dirty burner or clogged filter. A more serious concern is a rotten egg or gas smell, which indicates a gas leak. Evacuate your home immediately, call your gas provider, and then contact us for emergency service.
Inconsistent heating is a frustrating problem. You might find cold spots in the house, with some rooms warm and others chilly. This can be caused by ductwork issues, a faulty thermostat, or a furnace struggling to distribute heat. If your furnace is blowing cold air, it could be a thermostat error, a clogged filter, or a more complex issue with the pilot light or gas supply.
Frequent cycling, where the furnace turns on and off more often than usual, is another common complaint. This "short cycling" can be caused by a clogged air filter, an oversized furnace, or a faulty thermostat. It's inefficient and puts stress on your system, shortening its lifespan. For a deeper dive, see our guide on furnace short cycling signs solutions.
Finally, watch for rising energy bills. If your heating costs are climbing without a change in usage, your furnace is likely working harder than it should. An inefficient furnace is expensive and often needs repair or maintenance. Addressing these signs early can make all the difference for your comfort and wallet.
Common Furnace Problems & Simple Troubleshooting Steps
When your furnace acts up, many common problems have simple troubleshooting steps you can try before calling a professional. Understanding these can help you diagnose the issue.
A clogged air filter is a frequent culprit. It restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder, which can cause overheating, frequent cycling, or a shutdown.
- Simple Troubleshooting Step: Check your furnace filter monthly, especially during peak season. Replacing a dirty filter can often resolve issues like short cycling or reduced heating.
Thermostat malfunction is another common issue. If your thermostat isn't working correctly, your furnace won't either.
- Simple Troubleshooting Step: Ensure the thermostat has fresh batteries (if applicable) and is set to "HEAT" with the temperature set higher than the current room temperature. The problem is often a simple setting error.
An ignition system failure can leave you in the cold. Modern furnaces use an electronic igniter or a pilot light. If either fails, your furnace won't produce heat.
- Simple Troubleshooting Step (for pilot light systems): For gas furnaces, check if the pilot light is lit. You may be able to relight it following the furnace instructions. If it frequently goes out, it signals a deeper problem. For more guidance, see our article on furnace pilot light repair.
Over time, mechanical wear and tear can affect components like the blower motor. Worn bearings or motor failure can lead to strange noises or no airflow.
- Simple Troubleshooting Step: Listen for unusual sounds. Identifying the sound helps our technicians diagnose the problem faster.
Blocked vents or ducts can prevent heated air from reaching your rooms. Furniture, rugs, or dust can obstruct airflow.
- Simple Troubleshooting Step: Ensure all supply and return vents are open and clear of obstructions.
Finally, a lack of regular maintenance is a primary reason for breakdowns. Like a car, your furnace needs annual tune-ups for efficiency and reliability.
- Simple Troubleshooting Step: You can't perform a tune-up yourself, but you can schedule one with us. Regular maintenance keeps your system in top condition and reduces future repairs.
If these checks don't resolve the issue, or if you suspect a gas leak, call us. Most furnace problems require a certified technician to keep your Abbotsford home warm and safe.
Repairing vs. Replacing Your Furnace: A Homeowner's Guide
A furnace breakdown presents a crucial decision: repair or replace? To help you choose, consider these key factors for your Abbotsford home.
The age of the furnace is a significant factor. Most last 10-15 years, but with proper maintenance, some can reach 20 years. If your furnace is under 10 years old with a minor issue, repair is usually best. If it's over 15 years old and has consistent problems, replacement is often the wiser long-term choice.
Consider the frequency of repairs. If your furnace needs frequent repairs, those costs add up, making a new system a better investment. A common rule: if a repair costs over 50% of a new unit, or breakdowns are frequent, replacement is advisable.
Energy efficiency is another critical aspect. Modern furnaces are more energy-efficient, reducing energy bills. Savings from a new high-efficiency unit can offset much of its installation cost over time.
Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Factor | Repair Considerations | Replacement Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Furnace is less than 10 years old. | Furnace is 10-15 years old or older. |
| Repair Cost | Minor, inexpensive repair; less than 50% of replacement. | Cost of repair is more than 50% of a new unit, or multiple expensive repairs are needed. |
| Frequency | Infrequent breakdowns. | Frequent breakdowns, especially in consecutive heating seasons. |
| Efficiency | Still operates efficiently, no significant increase in bills. | Older, inefficient model leading to consistently high energy bills. Modern furnaces are highly energy-efficient, using less gas to produce more heat. |
| Comfort | Provides consistent, adequate heating. | Inconsistent heating, cold spots, or difficulty maintaining desired temperature. |
The benefits of a new furnace include reliability, lower energy bills, better air quality from advanced filtration, and quieter operation. For those considering a new installation, our guide on furnace installation homeowner essentials offers valuable insights.
A professional assessment is key. Our technicians can evaluate your system, assess repair vs. replacement costs, and provide custom recommendations. We offer financing to make a new furnace more accessible. We're here to help you make the best decision for your comfort and budget.
My furnace isn't working. Find me a company for furnace repair in Abbotsford.
When you're searching, "My furnace isn't working. Find me a company for furnace repair in Abbotsford," you need a trusted partner. We understand the heating needs of the Fraser Valley and are familiar with the systems and common issues in Abbotsford's climate.
We proudly serve the entire Abbotsford region, including Abbotsford Centre Area BC, Abbotsford East BC, and Abbotsford West BC. Our team provides prompt, professional furnace repair for a "headache-free" experience.
Essential Qualities of a Trustworthy HVAC Provider
When your furnace fails, look for these qualities in a reliable HVAC provider:
- Licensed and Insured: This is non-negotiable. Licensing ensures industry standards are met, while insurance protects you. We are fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind.
- Certified Technicians: Our certified HVAC technicians have the expertise to diagnose and repair all furnace types, ensuring quality work that gets to the root of the problem.
- Positive Customer Reviews: Customer reviews speak volumes. Read our reviews to see how we've helped your neighbours.
- Years of Experience: With over 30 years of HVAC expertise, we bring extensive knowledge to every call. We've seen nearly every furnace problem and know how to resolve it efficiently.
- Comprehensive Services: A good company offers more than repairs. We provide a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and advice on improving home heating and air quality.
- 24/7 Emergency Availability: A trustworthy company offers 24/7 emergency service, so help is always a phone call away.
Questions to Ask a Potential Company for Furnace Repair in Abbotsford
When choosing a company, asking the right questions helps you choose wisely. We recommend asking the following:
- Do you offer 24/7 emergency service? This is crucial for unexpected breakdowns. We offer 24/7 emergency services for your peace of mind.
- Are your technicians certified and insured? This confirms their qualifications and protects you. Our technicians are certified and our company is insured.
- Do you provide a warranty on parts and labour? A reputable company stands behind its work. We offer warranties for your satisfaction and confidence.
- Do you offer maintenance plans? Regular maintenance prolongs your furnace's life. Our maintenance-plan is designed to keep your system running smoothly.
- Can you provide references or show me your customer reviews? Customer testimonials give you a clear picture of service quality. You can find ours on our website.
- What is your process for diagnosing a problem? A transparent diagnostic process shows professionalism. We pride ourselves on clear explanations and a thorough approach.
Asking these questions helps you find a reliable company for furnace repair in Abbotsford to keep your home warm.
What to Expect From Your Service Call and Beyond
Calling for professional help can feel daunting. We believe in transparency, so here's what to expect from our team for a "headache-free" experience.
The service call process begins with scheduling. Our technician will arrive, listen to your description of the issues, and perform a thorough diagnosis. They will then provide a clear explanation of the issues and the required fix. We encourage questions so you feel fully informed.
With your approval, they'll perform the repair execution with high-quality parts. Afterward, they conduct system testing to verify correct and safe operation, checking the thermostat, airflow, and performance. Finally, they'll handle post-service cleanup.
The Professional Repair Process Explained
Our repair process is designed for efficiency, accuracy, and safety:
- Initial Diagnosis: Our technician performs a thorough inspection to identify the root cause, checking for common issues like clogged filters, thermostat malfunctions, or ignition failures.
- Safety Checks: Safety is our top priority. We perform essential safety checks, like gas leak and carbon monoxide testing, to ensure your system operates without hazard.
- Sourcing Quality Parts: We use high-quality, durable parts. Our technicians carry common parts, often allowing for same-day repairs.
- Completing the Repair: Our certified technicians execute the repair, adhering to industry best practices.
- System Testing: After the repair, we test the system to ensure optimal heating performance.
- Final Inspection: A final inspection ensures everything is working. We'll explain the work done and provide maintenance tips for a "headache-free" experience.
The Value of Emergency Services When Your Furnace Isn't Working in Abbotsford
A broken furnace during a cold Abbotsford winter is an emergency. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency furnace repair services to address urgent issues swiftly.
The benefits are clear:
- 24/7 Availability: We're here for you day or night, weekends or holidays.
- Fast Response: Our team responds quickly to restore your heat.
- Preventing Frozen Pipes: A lack of heat can lead to frozen pipes and water damage. Our swift response helps prevent this.
- Restoring Home Safety: A malfunctioning furnace can pose safety risks like carbon monoxide leaks. Emergency repairs address these dangers immediately.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing expert help is available 24/7 provides peace of mind.
- Immediate Assistance: For immediate assistance when your furnace isn't working, don't hesitate to contact-us.
This commitment to immediate service is part of our promise to deliver a "headache-free" experience to our customers in Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair
When your furnace isn't working, you have questions. Here are answers to common inquiries about furnace repair and maintenance.
How often should I have my furnace serviced?
We recommend annual furnace maintenance, best performed in the fall before the heating season. Regular maintenance is crucial for several reasons:
- Ensures Efficiency and Safety: An annual tune-up ensures peak efficiency for lower energy bills and includes vital safety checks, like inspecting for carbon monoxide leaks.
- Prevents Unexpected Breakdowns: Routine maintenance can catch problems before they become major breakdowns, saving you from the stress of a mid-winter furnace failure.
- Prolongs Lifespan: A well-maintained furnace can last up to 20 years, making annual service a wise investment.
- Prepares for Winter: Regular maintenance prepares your furnace for winter in Abbotsford, ensuring it's ready for the cold.
To make maintenance easy, consider our comprehensive maintenance-plan.
Is a strange smell from my furnace always dangerous?
Not always, but always investigate. Here's a breakdown:
- Burning Dust Smell: This is common on first use as dust burns off the heat exchanger. The smell is temporary and should dissipate quickly.
- Persistent Burning Smell: A persistent burning smell could indicate a problem with the motor, wiring, or a dirty burner and requires professional attention.
- Rotten Egg or Gas Smell: This indicates a gas leak. Evacuate your home immediately, don't use any electronics, and call your gas provider and then us for emergency service from a safe location. This is an urgent safety hazard.
When in doubt, have a professional check any unusual smells.
Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
This is a frustrating problem with a few potential causes:
- Check Thermostat Settings: Ensure your thermostat is set to "HEAT" and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature.
- Replace a Dirty Air Filter: A clogged filter can cause the heat exchanger to overheat and shut down as a safety measure, while the fan continues to blow unheated air.
- Pilot Light or Gas Supply Issues: For gas furnaces, an extinguished pilot light or a gas supply issue will prevent the burners from igniting.
- Overheating: A faulty fan limit switch or blocked exhaust vent can also cause overheating, shutting off the burners while the fan runs.
- Ductwork Leaks: Leaks in your ductwork can pull in cold air, making the heated air feel cool.
If basic checks don't work, it's time for a professional diagnosis to identify the cause and restore your heat.
Your Partner for Reliable Home Comfort in Abbotsford
When your furnace fails, we hope this guide has empowered you to identify problems, troubleshoot, and know when to seek professional help. The key is to identify the issue, choose a professional, and prioritize maintenance.
At Valley Pacific Mechanical Contracting, we are dedicated to keeping your home in Abbotsford, Langley, Mission, Maple Ridge, and Pitt Meadows warm. With over 30 years of HVAC expertise, we promise a "headache-free" experience, backed by 24/7 emergency service and a commitment to quality. Our certified technicians can handle any furnace repair.
Don't let a broken furnace leave you in the cold. For expert furnace repair in Mission BC and surrounding Fraser Valley areas like Abbotsford, contact our team. We provide reliable service to ensure your home is a sanctuary of warmth.


