Nothing is more inconvenient than a broken furnace during harsh cold periods when you require the same to keep the interiors warm. If you’re stuck with a furnace that isn’t heating correctly or has completely broken down, there are a handful of things you can check on your own. These steps may save you time, money and the headache of unnecessary repairs.
The first thing to do if your furnace is not working is to check the thermostat. This seems simple, but is often a matter of setting some item in settings erroneously. This will ensure that the thermostat is set to heating mode and that the temperature is greater than the desired room temperature. A malfunctioning thermostat can sometimes stop a furnace from working as well, so if the display isn’t responding or if you see a low battery indication, replacing the batteries might also be in order. Also, check to see if the thermostat is properly wired if it was a recent install or service.
Another quite common problem of a furnace not heating is the power source problem. Make sure that the furnace is plugged in. Check that the furnace switch is positioned ON. Some homes have a secondary power control switch located near the furnace or in the basement. Check the circuit breaker in your electrical panel as well. If you find that the breaker has been tripped, resetting it will hopefully restore power to the furnace. If this persists, however, the breaker is tripping — a clear sign of an electrical fault that will need to be dealt with by a licensed technician.
The air filter is another common source of problems when a furnace isn’t functioning properly. When these filters become clogged with dust, they stop the air flow and cause the furnace to overheat and shut off. If it appears clogged or dirty, replace it with a new one. Taking this simple step can make your furnace work more efficiently — and possibly keep it from breaking down any further. Doing so would also allow for adequate airflow needed for the furnace to work properly without burning out.
If you have a pilot light furnace, check to see if the pilot is lit. If the pilot light has gone out, consult your furnace’s manual for how to safely relight it. With new furnaces utilizing electronic ignitions, there are problems with the ignition that will prevent the furnace from running. In that case, you may see error codes on the furnace’s screen. If the issues persist, then a technician should inspect the ignition system and make the needed repairs.
Lastly, if your furnace runs on gas, ensure the gas supply is turned on. If gas isn’t flowing through, the furnace can’t generate heat. Check the gas valve by the furnace to make sure it’s in the open position. If you suspect there is a problem with the gas supply, contact your gas company immediately.
If none of these steps work and your furnace still isn’t running, it’s time to call in the pros — a professional HVAC technician. They can recognize more complex issues such as problems with the blower motor, heat exchanger, or electrical systems. An early call on your failing furnace can help you avoid costly furnace repairs and get your home back to a comfortable temperature ASAP.
Brad Flynn is the author of this article. For more details about Best HVAC technician in Ottawa please visit our website: airzonehvac.ca