Do you know what to do when your furnace won’t turn on? Don’t panic. Your furnace just needs attention. You might not realize there are a few things you can try to know when it’s time to call in the professionals. If these troubleshooting tips don’t work, Covenant Air Conditioning is always available for expert help.
Test Your Thermostat
The most common reason for this type of furnace problem is a thermostat issue. Make sure the unit is set on the “auto” and “heat” functions. Replace the batteries and adjust the thermostat to start a heating cycle. This will tell you if the unit needs calibrating.
What Should I Do if My Thermostat Isn’t Working?
When your thermostat needs calibration, there could be a more serious problem. If there’s a wiring short, the thermostat and heating system won’t communicate properly. In some cases, the thermostat needs replacement. An HVAC technician can pinpoint the specific reason for a malfunctioning device and provide effective furnace repair.
Check the Power Switch and Circuit Breaker
Even if you have recently used your furnace, check its power switch. An accidental jostling or an animal could have moved the switch to the off position.
Tripped circuit breakers can also lead to failing heater symptoms. If your furnace isn’t working, check the corresponding breaker. Try moving it to the off position and turning it back on. This can help reset the furnace.
Change the Air Filter
Replacing a dirty air filter can affect many different aspects of home heating. It can improve efficiency, lower heating bills, and reduce the need for furnace repair. That’s because a dirty filter impedes airflow and forces the system to work harder.
Some furnaces have safety features that force the system to turn off until a dirty air filter is replaced. Replace the filter and try using your furnace again.
Examine the Pilot Light or Igniter
All furnaces use either pilot lights or igniters to start. Make sure you know which system your furnace uses. When the furnace won’t start, try lighting the pilot or using the igniter. If this is the source of the problem, a restart might be all that’s needed.
What if My Pilot Light Keeps Going Out?
A pilot light that won’t stay lit suggests a fuel flow problem. You might have a gas leak. If you detect an unusual odor, it’s important to schedule furnace repair service right away. The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs commonly indicates a gas leak. Make sure to tell your HVAC technician if this is the case, so they can arrive prepared.
Call for Expert Help
Before you turn to a heating alternative, keep in mind that space heaters and heating stoves cause one-quarter of house fires.
Rather than taking a bigger risk, schedule immediate service with a professional HVAC company. You’ll promptly find out why your furnace isn’t working, and you’ll learn what the repairs will involve. An informed decision will help you protect your home and your heating equipment.
Don’t Put Off Furnace Repair
When you work with Covenant Air Conditioning, we’ll use our state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose your furnace problem. We’ll offer repair solutions to restore efficient heating in your home. Contact us to schedule service today!