Imagine a cold winter evening when your furnace unexpectedly stops working. What are your options? Before you rush into panic mode or wrap yourself in blankets, take a moment to breathe and regroup.
At Furnace & AC Experts, we’ve helped many homeowners tackle similar problems. In this article, we’ll share some straightforward troubleshooting steps and helpful tips that may just help you restore the warmth in your home.
- Check Your Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat is like the brain of your heating system, so let’s start there:
- Make Sure It’s Set to “Heat”: Sometimes, the simplest fix is the solution. Double-check that your thermostat is set to “Heat” mode.
- Adjust the Temperature: Set the temperature a few degrees higher than the current room temperature to see if that kicks the furnace on.
- Replace the Batteries: If your thermostat uses batteries, try swapping them out. Dead batteries could be the reason your furnace isn’t working.
After checking these things, if your furnace doesn’t turn on, it might be time to dig a little deeper.
If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting on your own, call us at Furnace & AC Experts at
905-595-0505 — we’re here to help!
- Inspect Your Furnace’s Power Supply
If your furnace stops working, it could be due to a power issue:
- Check the Circuit Breaker: Head to your breaker box and see if the furnace breaker has tripped. If it has, flip it back on.
- Check the Power Switch: Many furnaces have a power switch near them that looks like a light switch. Make sure it’s turned on.
- Look for Blown Fuses: Older homes may still use fuses. If your furnace runs on a fuse, check to see if it needs replacing.
If your furnace still won’t power up, the issue could be more complex, but don’t worry—there are still some steps to try.
- Replace or Clean the Air Filter
A dirty air filter can cause your furnace to stop working. Here’s what you can do:
- Turn Off the Furnace: Safety first! Make sure the power is off before you handle the filter.
- Remove the Filter: Locate the filter near the air intake vent or the furnace blower compartment. Pull it out carefully.
- Inspect the Filter: Hold it up to a light. If you can’t see light coming through, it’s time to replace it.
- Install a Clean Filter: Slide a new filter into place or clean the existing one if it’s reusable.
Keeping a clean filter not only helps your furnace work properly but also improves the air quality in your home.
- Check for a Pilot Light Issue
If your furnace has a pilot light, this could be the problem:
- Turn Off the Gas: Before you do anything, turn off the gas for safety and wait a few minutes for any gas to dissipate.
- Locate the Pilot Light: Usually, you’ll find it near the bottom of the furnace.
- Follow the Relighting Instructions: Most furnaces have a label with instructions for relighting the pilot light. Use a long lighter or match to relight it while holding the knob in the “Pilot” position.
- Turn the Gas Back On: Once the pilot light is steady, turn the gas valve back to the “On” position.
If the pilot light keeps going out, this could indicate a problem with the thermocouple, and it’s time to call in a professional.
- Ensure Air Vents Are Unblocked
Blocked air vents can cause your furnace to shut off. Here’s how to check:
- Inspect All Vents: Make sure no vents are closed or blocked by furniture or curtains.
- Check the Outside Vent: If you have a high-efficiency furnace, it may have an exhaust vent outside. Make sure it’s clear of snow, leaves, or other debris.
Good airflow is crucial for your furnace to work properly. Keeping vents open helps maintain even heating throughout your home.
- Look for Error Codes on Your Furnace
Many newer furnaces have a built-in error code system:
- Check the Control Panel: Look for a small blinking light or a display that shows an error code.
- Consult the Manual: Refer to your furnace’s manual to understand what the error code means. It could give you clues about the problem.
- Common Codes: Some common issues include ignition problems or blocked vents.
If you’re unsure what the code means or how to fix it, it’s best to call a professional for help.
- Reset Your Furnace
If you’ve tried everything else, sometimes a simple reset is all it takes:
- Turn Off the Furnace: Flip the switch or turn off the power at the breaker.
- Wait a Few Minutes: Give it a couple of minutes to reset.
- Turn It Back On: Flip the power back on and see if the furnace starts up.
This can help if your furnace experienced a minor glitch. If it still doesn’t work, it might be time for professional assistance.
Get in Touch with Experts
If your furnace still won’t work after trying these steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Furnace & AC Experts. We can help with:
- Detailed Diagnostics: We can identify problems like a faulty motor, gas valve issues, or a broken heat exchanger.
- Emergency Services: If your furnace stops working during extreme cold, we offer quick and reliable emergency services to restore your heat.
- Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance can catch small issues before they lead to a full furnace breakdown.
Prevent Future Furnace Issues
Avoid future breakdowns with these simple tips:
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual furnace check-ups to keep everything in good working order.
- Change Filters Regularly: Replace your filter every 1-3 months to maintain good airflow.
- Monitor Thermostat Performance: Make sure your thermostat is calibrated and working correctly.
These steps can extend the life of your furnace and ensure it keeps you warm when you need it most.
A furnace that stops working can be a real headache, but with these simple troubleshooting steps, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. If your furnace is still giving you trouble, our experienced team at Furnace & AC Experts in Mississauga is just a call away. We’ll diagnose the issue and get your heat back on quickly, so you can stay warm and comfortable all winter long.
Contact Furnace & AC Experts today at 905-595-0505 to schedule a service or get advice from our team. We’re here to help with all your heating needs!