As the bitter cold spell continues, HVAC companies across Metro Detroit are working overtime to keep up with emergency calls from residents and businesses.
“We are taking calls morning, noon, and night,” said Jeff Locklear, owner of AFM Heating & Cooling in Livonia.
His team handles 15-20 service calls daily.
The prolonged cold weather is putting unprecedented strain on heating systems.
Locklear’s crews are encountering multiple issues, including malfunctioning flame sensors, dirty filters, snow-clogged exhaust vents, and failing motors.
His company aims to respond to emergency calls within 24 hours, but the request volume continues to grow.
Livonia resident Bart Foster recently faced an unexpected expense when his furnace failed beyond repair.
“Who wants to spend $5,000?” Foster said.
HVAC experts emphasize the importance of regular maintenance to avoid emergency situations during extreme weather:
- Change furnace filters regularly to prevent restricted airflow
- Schedule annual maintenance checks
- Monitor exhaust vents for snow buildup
- Address minor issues promptly before they become major problems
In emergency situations, HVAC companies recommend promptly joining service lists, especially during extended cold periods when call volumes are highest.