If your furnace isn’t turning on, don’t stress! We’ve got some simple troubleshooting tips you can try. With winter here, it’s time for your furnace to step up its game. As a homeowner, you know there’s nothing worse than looking forward to a warm, cozy home only to discover your furnace isn’t working. Let’s get it sorted!
Before you start panicking and calling your Delaware Heating & Air pros, remember there are a few common issues that might be behind your heating system acting up. So, let’s take a moment to go through a quick and easy troubleshooting list. These basic steps can help you pinpoint the problem and get things fixed!
Check the Power Source If the Furnace Does Not Power On
When you’re troubleshooting a problem, the first thing to check is the power source. There are two main power sources to look at, depending on your furnace type: the circuit breaker or the gas or oil supply.
The Circuit Breaker: If your furnace runs on electricity, the first thing you should do is check the circuit breaker. Sometimes, the breaker for your furnace can trip, cutting off power to your heating system. So, take a look at your electrical panel and see if any switches are in the “off” position or somewhere in between “on” and “off.” You’d be surprised how often a breaker can look like it’s in the “on” position when it’s actually stuck in the middle, which means it’s turned “off.”
To fix this, just reset any tripped breaker switches by flipping them all the way to “off” and then back to “on.” If it trips again, though, there might be a bigger electrical issue that needs a pro’s help. Keep in mind that circuit breakers can wear out over time, so if this keeps happening, it might be a good idea to chat with a professional about whether a circuit breaker repair or replacement is the way to go.
The Natural Gas or Oil Supply: If you’ve got a fuel-powered furnace, remember it needs a constant supply of fuel to keep running. If there’s an issue with the fuel supply—like a closed valve or an empty oil tank—it won’t turn on. You can definitely check if the gas valve is in the right position, but if you think there’s a problem with the gas pressure, it’s best to leave that to the pros!
Check the Thermostat If the Furnace Does Not Power On
Next up, let’s check the thermostat—it’s like the command center for your HVAC system! If your furnace isn’t kicking on, the fix might be as simple as adjusting the thermostat. Take a moment to make sure it’s set to “heat” and that the temperature is set higher than what it is in the room. This way, your heating system has a chance to warm things up to your desired level.
Sometimes, your thermostat might just be acting up—it happens to the best of us! First, check the batteries and replace them if necessary. If your thermostat is still not responding, it might be time to call in an HVAC technician for a proper diagnosis.
Check the Air Filters If the Furnace Does Not Power On
Hey, how about your HVAC system’s air filters? Have you given them a look lately? It might seem small, but a clogged air filter can really mess with your furnace’s performance. When it’s dirty and packed with dust and other stuff, it restricts airflow, which can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down for safety. So, if you’re still having issues, checking those air filters is definitely a smart move!
If the filter is dirty, simply replace it with a new one. Bear in mind that regularly changing the air filter is highly recommended—ideally, this task should be completed every 1-3 months as it can improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and prolong its lifespan.
Check if the Ducts are Blocked If the Furnace Does Not Power On
Did you know that blocked ducts can mess with your furnace’s performance? When airflow gets blocked, your furnace might think something’s wrong and shut down. For instance, if anything falls into the ductwork, it could send some furnaces into safety mode, and they won’t turn on.
Some furnaces are set up to respond this way as a safety measure to keep you safe from carbon monoxide poisoning at home. While specific things need to happen for this to occur, your safety is super important! So, it’s always a good idea to take care of any obstructions as soon as you can.
Check the Drain Pan If the Furnace Does Not Power On
Modern furnaces come with some handy safety features! For example, if the drain pan collects too much moisture, it can trip a safety switch and shut down the furnace. If you’re still having issues after that, it might be worth checking the drain pan (usually found right under the furnace) and emptying it if it’s full of water.
By the way, if you’ve noticed that the drain pan keeps filling up and it’s becoming a regular issue, that might mean there’s something off with your HVAC system’s drainage. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
In Conclusion:
If checking the circuit breaker, thermostat, air filter, ducts, drain pan, pilot light, and fuel supply doesn’t solve your furnace problems, remember that your Delaware Heating & Air team is always here for you! We’re experts in furnace repair and maintenance, and we’re ready to get your furnace back up and running in no time. Just give us a shout!
Your comfort and safety are super important, and sometimes, getting expert help is the way to go. So, feel free to reach out to us anytime! You can contact Delaware Heating & Air today at (740) 227-8302 or schedule a heating or cooling repair appointment online now by clicking here!
