What to Do If Your Home Loses Heat After a Storm in St. Louis

If your home loses heat after a storm in St. Louis, start by checking your thermostat, power supply, and breaker panel. Make sure the thermostat is turned on and set to “heat,” reset any tripped circuit breakers, and confirm your furnace or heat pump has gas or electricity. Clean or replace clogged air filters and remove blockages from vents. If you still have no heat, use safe temporary measures like space heaters and contact a qualified HVAC technician to restore full service.

 

Check Thermostat Settings and Power

 

The thermostat is the control panel for your heating system. If it has no power or is set wrong, the heat won’t turn on.

• Thermostat mode: Confirm it is set to “heat,” not “cool” or “off.”
• Temperature setting: Raise it a few degrees above the current room temperature to trigger the system.
• Power source: If your thermostat uses batteries, replace them. For hardwired models, check if the display is on—no display may mean a blown fuse in the thermostat’s power circuit.

 

Inspect the Circuit Breaker and Fuse Box

 

Storms can cause power surges or outages that trip breakers. A circuit breaker is a safety switch in the electrical panel that stops power when there’s a problem.

• Locate the breaker panel: Often in a basement, garage, or utility closet.
• Identify tripped breakers: They sit halfway between On and Off. Flip them fully Off and then back On.
• Check furnace disconnect switch: Many furnaces have a local switch near the unit—make sure it is On.

 

Check Your Gas Supply or Electrical Connection

 

Most homes use either natural gas or electricity to run heating systems. A disruption can leave you without heat.

• Gas furnace pilot light or ignition: Older furnaces have a small flame called a pilot light. If it goes out, follow your user manual to relight it safely. Newer models use electronic ignition; listen for clicking sounds when the thermostat calls for heat.
• Gas valve position: Ensure the gas shutoff valve (a lever or knob on the gas line) is open and parallel to the pipe.
• Electric furnaces and heat pumps: Confirm the service switch (resembles a light switch) near the unit is On, and check for any blown fuses in the unit’s internal disconnect box.

 

Examine Air Filters, Vents, and Ducts

 

Blocked air filters or vents force your system to work harder and can trigger safety shutdowns.

• Air filter: This trap made of fiberglass or pleated material keeps dust out. Replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones if they look gray or clogged.
• Supply and return vents: Make sure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking them.
• Ductwork: Inspect visible ducts for loose joints or holes, which reduce airflow.

 

Temporary Measures to Stay Warm

 

While you work on restoring your main heat, keep yourself safe and comfortable.

• Layer clothing and blankets: Wear warm, dry layers and use thick blankets.
• Use space heaters safely: Place them on flat surfaces, keep them away from flammable items, and never leave them unattended.
• Seal drafts: Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows, and use draft stoppers at the base of doors.

 

When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

 

If you’ve tried these steps and still have no heat, a trained technician can diagnose deeper issues like refrigerant leaks, broken fan motors, or control board failures. Working with gas and high-voltage electricity can be dangerous. Whether you live in St. Louis or Nashville, look for a licensed HVAC service that offers 24/7 emergency repairs.

 

Preventative Maintenance for Future Storms

 

Keeping your system in good shape reduces the chance of losing heat during bad weather.

• Seasonal tune-ups: Have a technician inspect and clean your system before winter.
• Filter changes: Replace or clean filters every 1–3 months.
• Insulate pipes and ducts: Wrap exposed ducting in colder areas to prevent heat loss.
• Install a whole-home surge protector: Protects electrical components from storm-induced surges.