If your furnace isn’t turning on, don’t worry—there are some basic troubleshooting steps you can try. With winter almost here, your furnace is ready for the season ahead. As a homeowner, you know how frustrating it is to look forward to a warm, cozy home only to discover that your furnace isn’t functioning.
Before you panic and contact your Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling professionals, remember that there are several common issues that might be causing your heating system to malfunction. To help you identify the problem, here’s a simple troubleshooting list with basic furnace steps you can follow to fix it.
Check the Power Source If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
When troubleshooting a problem, the first step is to check the power source. As the saying goes, “With great power, comes great responsibility.”
Jokes aside, there are two main power sources to check based on your furnace type: the circuit breaker or the gas or oil supply.
The Circuit Breaker: If your furnace runs on electricity, check the circuit breaker. It’s possible that the breaker for your furnace has tripped, cutting off power to your heating system. Look at your electrical panel for any switches that are turned “off” or are stuck between “on” and “off.” Sometimes, a breaker can appear to be “on” when it’s actually in the middle position and turned “off.”
To fix this issue, reset any tripped breaker switches by flipping them fully to “off” and then back to “on.” If the breaker trips again, it could indicate a deeper electrical problem 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 determine if circuit breaker repair or replacement is the best option.
The Natural Gas or Oil Supply: If your furnace runs on fuel, it requires a constant supply to function properly. Problems with the fuel supply, like a closed valve or an empty oil tank, can stop your furnace from turning on. You can safely 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. It acts as the control center for your HVAC system. If your furnace isn’t turning on, the thermostat might be the easy fix you need. Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is higher than the current room temperature. This will give your heating system a chance to reach the desired temperature.
Sometimes, the thermostat might not be working properly. It happens! Start by checking the batteries and replace them if your model requires it. If your thermostat is still unresponsive, it’s likely time 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 really impact your furnace’s performance. When it’s dirty and filled with dust and other particles, it restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down for safety. So, it’s a smart idea to check your air filters if the issue hasn’t been resolved yet.
If the filter is dirty, just replace it with a new one. It’s a good idea to change the air filter regularly—ideally every 1-3 months. Doing so can boost your HVAC system’s efficiency and extend 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, it signals to your furnace that something is wrong, causing it to shut down. For instance, if objects fall into the ductwork, some furnaces may go into safety mode and won’t turn on.
Some furnaces are designed with a safety response to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. While specific factors need to be in place for this to happen, your safety is the top priority. It’s always best to address any obstructions as quickly as possible.
Check the Drain Pan
Modern furnaces come with several safety features. For example, if a drain pan collects too much moisture, it can activate a safety switch that stops the furnace from working. If your problem persists, it’s a good idea to find the drain pan (usually located beneath the furnace) and carefully empty it if it’s full of water.
If you notice 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
If your furnace won’t turn on, it can be frustrating. However, you can usually fix this issue by following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above. Check the circuit breaker, thermostat, air filter, ducts, drain pan, pilot light, and fuel supply to identify and resolve the problem yourself.
If that doesn’t solve your furnace issues, remember that your Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling 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, expert help is the best answer. Feel free to contact us anytime. You can contact Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling today at (937) 412-2911 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
