If your furnace isn’t turning on, don’t panic; we’ve got some simple troubleshooting steps you can follow. With winter here, it’s time for your furnace to take center stage for the season. As a homeowner, you know how frustrating it is to look forward to a warm and cozy home only to discover that your furnace isn’t working.
Before you panic and reach out to your Five Star Heating & Cooling Cincinnati professionals, remember that there are several common issues that might be causing your heating system to malfunction. Here’s a simple troubleshooting list to help you identify and address some basic furnace problems.
If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On, You Should try Checking Out the Power Source
When troubleshooting a problem, the first step is to check the power source. As the saying goes, “With great power comes great responsibility.”
On a serious note, there are two main power sources to check, depending on your furnace type: the circuit breaker or the gas or oil supply.
The Circuit Breaker: If your furnace uses electricity, check the circuit breaker. It’s possible the circuit breaker for your furnace has tripped, cutting off power to your heating system. Inspect your electrical panel for any switches that are in the “off” position or somewhere in between “on” and “off.” Often, a breaker switch might look like it’s in the “on” position, but if it’s in the middle, it may actually be turned “off.”
To fix this, reset any tripped breaker switches by flipping them fully to “off” and then back to “on.” If the breaker trips again, there might be an electrical issue that needs a professional’s help. Keep in mind that circuit breakers can wear out over time, so if this keeps happening, it’s a good idea to consult a professional about whether you should repair or replace the circuit breaker.
The Natural Gas or Oil Supply: If your furnace runs on fuel, it requires a consistent fuel supply to function. 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 correct position, but if you think there’s an issue with the gas pressure, it’s best to let a professional handle it.
If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On, You Should try Checking Out the Thermostat
Next, check the thermostat, which acts as the control center for your HVAC system. If your furnace isn’t turning on, the issue might be a simple fix with the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to “heat” and that the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature. This will allow your heating system to warm up to your desired temperature.
Sometimes, the thermostat might not work correctly. It happens. Check the batteries and replace them if needed for your model. If your thermostat is still unresponsive, it’s a good sign that you should have an HVAC technician take a look for a proper diagnosis.
If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On, You Should try Checking Out the Air Filters
Have you checked the air filters in your HVAC system? It might seem minor, but a clogged air filter can significantly impact your furnace’s performance. When the filter is dirty and full of dust and other particles, it restricts airflow, which can cause the furnace to overheat and shut down for safety. So, if the issue hasn’t been fixed 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 important to change the air filter regularly—ideally every 1-3 months. This can help improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.
If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On, You Should try Checking Out the Ducts
Did you know that blocked ducts can stop your furnace from working properly? When airflow is blocked, it signals to your furnace that something is wrong, causing it to shut down. For instance, if objects have fallen into the ductwork, some furnaces may go into safety mode and won’t turn on.
Some furnaces are designed with a safety feature to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home. While specific conditions need to be met for this to happen, your safety is the top priority. Therefore, it’s always best to address any obstructions as soon as possible.
If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On, You Should try Checking Out the Drain Pan
Modern furnaces come with several safety features. For example, if the drain pan gathers too much moisture, it can activate a safety switch that stops the furnace from running. If your issue persists, check the drain pan (typically located beneath the furnace) and empty it if it’s full of water.
If you’ve noticed that the drain pan fills up often, it could mean there’s an issue with your HVAC system’s drainage. In that case, it’s time to give us a call.
Let’s Wrap It Up
Having a furnace that won’t turn on can be frustrating, but you can usually fix it by following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above. By checking the circuit breaker, thermostat, air filter, ducts, drain pan, pilot light, and fuel supply, you can often find and resolve the problem on your own.
If that doesn’t resolve your furnace issues, remember that your Five Star Heating & Cooling Cincinnati team is always ready to help! With our skills in furnace repair and maintenance, we can quickly get your furnace up and running again.
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and sometimes, getting expert help is the best option. Feel free to reach out to us anytime. You can contact Five Star Heating & Cooling Cincinnati today at (513) 216-5011 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
