As cooler weather is approaching, we want to feel warm and cozy inside our houses, which means we will begin to use our furnaces more over the next couple months. Just like all other HVAC systems, furnaces require regular maintenance, or they will end up having a few issues when we go to the use them. Our experts at ACE have come up with a furnace troubleshooting guide for some common problems you might encounter during the upcoming season.
Furnace Troubleshooting
Often times troubleshooting your furnace is quite simple and an easy fix. Usually you just have to check your thermostat or batteries. However, it’s always important to keep in mind that if it gets complicated, our experts at ACE are prepared and ready to lend you hand and get your furnace back up and running. Now, let’s dive into some troubleshooting tips!
Replace Your Furnace Filter
Dirty filters affect the air quality in your home and can shut off your furnace (especially newer gas furnaces, which turn off to avoid overheating). Change furnace filters every 30-90 days to allow for proper air flow.
Is Your Thermostat Set Correctly?
Double check that your thermostat is set on “heat” and the temperature is set where you want it. Between kids and possible guests around the holidays, someone in your home turned down the thermostat or accidentally flipped the switch. If the thermostat is set correctly, turn it up a few degrees to see if that makes a difference. Give the furnace a minute for the fan and heat to get started.
Check the Circuit Breakers
Is it possible that you could have blown a fuse? Absolutely! Find out where your fuse box is and look for your furnace switch. Flip the switch back and forth to reset the furnace and then test to make sure it is on and running correctly.
Change Your Thermostat Batteries
If your thermostat is battery operated and isn’t working your batteries may be running low or dead. If they are dead or running low the thermostat cannot properly communicate with the furnace. Change your batteries to see if that fixes your problem.
Check Your Fuel Source
Be very careful with this step if you do it yourself, as we recommend having one of our professionals to help with this troubleshooting tip. See if your valve was somehow turned off. If you smell gas, or anything similar contact our HVAC professionals at ACE immediately to handle any gas leaks, as they can be quite dangerous.
