A furnace suddenly stopping functioning can really be annoying, more so when it is cold. There are a number of ways in which one can conduct some basic checks before contacting a professional to help determine the cause of the malfunctioning of the furnace. Most times the malfunctions in furnaces occur due to minor issues such as tripped circuit, dirty filter, or wrong thermostat setting. This article will be useful if you are looking for Furnace Not Turning On? 8 Things to Check Before You Call.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
Another component that needs checking if you have problems with your furnace coming on is the thermostat. Ensure that it is on heating mode and the temperature setting is above the room’s current temperature.
In case your thermostat runs on batteries, you will need to change them in case there is no display on the device. Failure to do so could prevent the thermostat from sending out signals to start your furnace.
Make Sure the Furnace Has Power
It must have electric power in order to function, regardless of whether the gas powers its operation. Take a look at your electrical board inside your home and see if you can spot the furnace’s tripped circuit breaker.
If the circuit breaker is tripped, then turn it on one time. It it trips again, it could mean an electrical issue which might require professional assistance. You should also ensure that the switch next to the furnace is switched on.
Replace a Dirty Air Filter
Dirty filters can hinder the process of airflow and cause your furnace to shut off as a safety precaution. With the passage of time, dirt accumulates inside the filter making the operation of your equipment difficult.
You can check the condition of your furnace filter and change it if necessary. Regular changes in the filter can improve airflow and increase the efficiency of your furnace.
Check the Gas Supply
In case you have a gas heater, ensure that there is an open supply of gas in the heater. Otherwise, the gas valve will hinder the production of heat by the heater.
In case of a smell of gas around your furnace, avoid repairing the system by yourself. Seek help from professionals in such situations.
Inspect the Furnace Door
Most furnaces come with a safety switch, which shuts down the appliance if the access panel is not properly closed. In case the door of your furnace is improperly fitted, it will not start up.
Before restarting the appliance, make sure that all the furnace panels are properly closed.
Look at the Pilot Light or Ignition System
An older furnace may have a pilot light whereas modern ones come equipped with electronic ignition system. When the pilot light is off, the heating system may not turn on.
In electronic ignitions, continuous clicks but no startup could be due to issues with the ignition system. These types of problems require expert attention, and professional technicians from our website visit Abbco Heating and Cooling can inspect and repair ignition components safely.
Check the Air Vents and Registers
Blocked or closed air vents can reduce airflow and affect furnace performance. Walk through your home and make sure vents are open and not covered by furniture, rugs, or other objects.
Proper airflow helps your furnace heat your home evenly and prevents unnecessary strain on the system.
Reset Your Furnace Carefully
Furnaces can often be fixed simply by doing a restart. You simply have to shut off the furnace, wait for some minutes, and start it again.
Do not reset your furnace continuously whenever it fails to work. Constant restarting is an indication of another problem that should be addressed by a professional.
When Should You Call a Furnace Professional?
In case your furnace does not come on despite considering all the simple issues discussed above, it may now be time to call in the professionals to have your system checked out.
Issues relating to the blower, the heat exchanger, electrical components, and the internal workings generally need specialized equipment and expertise. Attempted repairs without adequate knowledge may lead to further harm.
Conclusion
It will come in handy for you to know where you should look in case your furnace is not working. Simple checks such as those carried out on the thermostat, power source, filter, gas line, and more basic things could fix the problem without the need for any further steps.
But if the furnace continues to be off, then you need to have it repaired professionally. It is important to carry out routine maintenance on the heating system during winter.