If your furnace isn’t turning on, don’t panic; there are some simple troubleshooting steps you can follow. With winter here, your furnace is essential for keeping your home warm and cozy. As a homeowner, it’s frustrating to expect a comfortable home only to discover that your furnace isn’t working.
Before you panic and call your Chillicothe Heating & Cooling professionals, remember that there are several common issues that might be causing your heating system to malfunction. To help you out, here’s a simple troubleshooting list to guide you through some basic steps for identifying and fixing the problem.
Check the Power Source If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
When troubleshooting a problem, the first step is to check the power source. Remember, “With great power comes great responsibility,” or so the saying goes.
On a serious note, depending on your furnace type, you’ll want to check two main power sources: the circuit breaker and the gas or oil supply.
The Circuit Breaker: If your furnace runs on electricity, check the circuit breaker. It might have tripped, cutting off power to your heating system. Look at your electrical panel for any switches that are “off” or in between “on” and “off.” Sometimes, a breaker can appear to be in the “on” position when it’s actually in the middle, meaning it’s turned “off.”
To fix this, reset any tripped breaker switches by fully flipping them to “off” and then back to “on.” If the breaker trips again, there may be a deeper electrical issue that needs a professional’s help. Keep in mind that circuit breakers can wear out over time, so if this keeps happening, you should consult a professional to see if circuit breaker repair or replacement is the best option.
Check the Natural Gas or Oil Supply: If your furnace uses fuel, it needs a consistent supply to work properly. Problems with the fuel supply, like a closed valve or an empty oil tank, can stop your furnace from turning on. You can check if the gas valve is in the right position, but if you think there’s an issue with the gas pressure, it’s best to call in a professional.
Check the Thermostat If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Next, let’s check the thermostat, as it acts as the control center for your HVAC system. If your furnace isn’t turning on, the issue might be an easy fix with the thermostat. Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. This will allow your heating system to work towards reaching the desired temperature.
Sometimes, the thermostat might not be working correctly. It happens! Start by checking the batteries and replacing them if your model requires it. If your thermostat still isn’t responding, it’s a good idea to call an HVAC technician for a proper diagnosis.
Check the Air Filters If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Have you checked your HVAC system’s air filters? It might seem minor, but a clogged air filter can significantly impact your furnace’s performance. When the filter is dirty and filled with dust and other particles, it restricts airflow, which can cause the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. So, if the issue hasn’t been resolved yet, it’s a good idea to check your air filters.
If the filter is dirty, just replace it with a new one. It’s a good idea to change the air filter regularly—aim to do this every 1 to 3 months. This helps improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and extends its lifespan.
Check if the Ducts are Blocked If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Did you know that blocked ducts can stop your furnace from working properly? When airflow is blocked, your furnace may detect an issue and shut down as a safety measure. For instance, if objects fall into the ductwork, some furnaces will go into safety mode and won’t turn on.
Some furnaces are designed with a safety feature that helps prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. While specific conditions need to occur for this to happen, your safety is the top priority. It’s always best to address any obstructions as soon as possible.
Check the Drain Pan If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Modern furnaces come with several safety features. For example, if the drain pan collects too much moisture, it can activate a safety switch that stops the furnace from working. If your problem isn’t fixed at this point, it’s a good idea to find the drain pan (usually located under the furnace) and carefully empty it if it’s full of water.
If you’ve noticed that the drain pan fills up often, this could signal a drainage issue with your HVAC system. If that’s the case, it’s time to give us a call.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
Having trouble with a furnace that won’t turn on can be frustrating, but you can usually fix this issue by following the troubleshooting steps above. Check the circuit breaker, thermostat, air filter, ducts, drain pan, pilot light, and fuel supply to identify and resolve the problem on your own.
If that doesn’t solve your furnace issues, remember that your Chillicothe Heating & Cooling team is here to help! With our expertise in furnace repair and maintenance, we can quickly get your furnace back in working order.
Your comfort and safety are important, and sometimes, the best solution is to get expert help. Feel free to reach out to us. You can contact Chillicothe Heating & Cooling today at (740) 281-2186 or click here to schedule an appointment now!