As temperatures drop and the fall and winter months settle in, a reliable furnace becomes essential for keeping your home warm and comfortable. However, what happens when your furnace stops heating? Before you panic and brace yourself for a frigid home (and annoyed family), let's explore some common issues that could be causing the problem and how you might be able to address them.
1. Thermostat issues
Incorrect settings
One of the simplest and most common reasons a furnace isn't heating is an incorrectly set thermostat. Make sure it's set to "heat" mode and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature.
Dead batteries
If your thermostat is battery-operated, check to see if the batteries need replacing. Dead batteries can prevent the thermostat from communicating with your furnace.
Calibration problems
If the thermostat isn't properly calibrated, it might not be reading the indoor temperature accurately. Recalibrating or replacing the thermostat can solve this issue.
2. Clogged air filters
Air filters are crucial for maintaining air quality and ensuring your furnace operates efficiently. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust and debris, restricting airflow. This not only forces your furnace to work harder but can also cause it to overheat and shut down. Regularly replacing or cleaning your air filters can help prevent this issue – and it also will help to improve your home’s indoor air quality.
3. Pilot light or ignition control issues
Pilot light
Older furnaces use a standing pilot light that can go out due to drafts or a malfunctioning thermocouple. If the pilot light is out, you might need to relight it following the manufacturer's instructions.
Ignition control
Newer furnaces use electronic ignition systems that can fail due to electrical problems or component wear and tear. If your furnace isn't igniting, a faulty ignition control module might be to blame.
4. Faulty blower motor
The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. If the blower motor is malfunctioning, the furnace might produce heat, but it won’t distribute it effectively. Listen for unusual noises or check for reduced airflow from your vents, which can indicate a blower motor problem.
5. Dirty flame sensor
The flame sensor is a safety feature that ensures the gas valve only opens when there's a flame present. Over time, the sensor can become dirty and fail to detect the flame, causing the furnace to shut off. Cleaning the flame sensor can often restore normal operation.
6. Blocked vents or ducts
Blocked or closed vents and ducts can disrupt airflow and cause uneven heating or prevent the furnace from working altogether. Make sure all vents and ducts are open and free from obstructions.
7. Overloaded circuit
If your furnace shares a circuit with other high-powered appliances, it might trip the circuit breaker and shut down. Ensure your furnace has a dedicated circuit to prevent this issue.
8. Gas supply issues
For gas furnaces, an interrupted gas supply can prevent heating. Ensure the gas valve is open and that there's no interruption in the gas line. If you suspect a gas leak, immediately turn off the gas supply and contact a professional.
When to call a professional
While some furnace issues can be resolved with a bit of troubleshooting, others require the expertise of a professional HVAC technician. If you’ve checked these common problems and your furnace still isn’t heating, or if you’re uncomfortable performing any of these checks yourself, it’s time to call in the pros. A professional can accurately diagnose and repair your furnace, ensuring your home stays warm and safe throughout the winter.
At Oncourse Home Solutions, we understand the importance of a reliable heating system. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to help you get your furnace back up and running.
Visit us online to see if our Heating Repair and Heating Maintenance HVAC home warranties are available in your neighborhood. Don’t let a faulty furnace leave you in the cold – contact us today for all your heating repair needs!