As the weather turns cooler, you’re likely switching over to heating and starting up your furnace for the first time. But if your heat doesn’t fire up right away — don’t panic! We’ve got some tips to diagnose possible reasons why your furnace won’t stay on. Learn about these common causes of a malfunctioning furnace so you and your family can get back to feeling warm and comfortable.
Improper Thermostat Settings
The thermostat is often the culprit behind a non-starting furnace. Check to make sure you’re not still on cooling or fan mode. If your thermostat is programmable, check to see that it hasn’t switched to vacation or work mode. The thermostat may also need a set of fresh batteries.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
If the thermostat checks out, take a look at your home’s electrical panel. Check the circuit breaker linked to your furnace to see if the breaker has tripped. Even if your furnace burns gas, it still requires electricity to start up and operate. If the circuit breaker is in the middle position, reset it by turning it off, then back on. It may just need a single reset, but if the circuit breaker keeps tripping, it’s likely time to call for service.
If your thermostat has good batteries, is properly programmed, and the circuit breaker is engaged, but you’re still not getting heat, there may be other minor problems that require a service call.
No Pilot Light
If your furnace is older, it may operate using a continuously burning pilot light. Sometimes a stray draft or dust and debris can extinguish the pilot light. If it appears to be out, it will need to be relit by a furnace technician. The HVAC pros at Greiner Heating, Air, and Electric can check the pilot for debris or damage and then safely relight it.
Safety Switches Activated
For safety, your furnace has several automatic switches designed to shut off when they detect potentially dangerous problems. The pilot sensor shuts off the gas when it senses that the pilot light is not ignited. The limit switch will shut the furnace down if it senses that the heat exchanger is overheating. If a safety switch is activated, don’t worry; it’s doing its job! Your certified Greiner Heating, Air, and Electric technician can test safety switches and determine the appropriate heating repair.
Get Your Furnace Up and Running
Sometimes troubleshooting isn’t enough and your furnace needs a service call. You can count on the furnace professionals at Greiner Heating, Air, and Electric to provide prompt, reliable service and an accurate assessment of what’s wrong with your furnace. We’re equipped to repair minor furnace glitches and major repairs to get your home warm and toasty in no time.
If your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, our heating team can also recommend an efficient replacement furnace to cut your heating costs dramatically!
Regular Maintenance for Peace of Mind
No matter what age your furnace is, regular maintenance by the furnace pros can avoid upsetting problems, like not starting up. Homeowners count on the regular furnace maintenance from the team at Greiner Heating, Air, and Electric. With regular maintenance, you’ll extend the life of your furnace and ensure more efficient operation.
Check your thermostat & breakers if your furnace isn’t heating. Still no heat? We can help get your furnace started! Contact us to schedule an appointment.
