
Finding out that your furnace has stopped working all of a sudden isn’t only disappointing, but it could be a major issue that could be highly damaging to your home. So what do you do when something like this happens? Well, the most common step would be to troubleshoot the furnace yourself before calling in a professional technician to look at the issues.
In this article, we’re looking at some easy steps to troubleshoot your non-operational furnace and help you understand the details of the system issues.
Troubleshooting a Non-Operational Furnace
Thermostat Issues
-
Power Check
-
Check your Thermostat Settings
-
Testing Thermostat Functionality
-
Environmental Factors
-
Recalibration or Replacement
Make sure the thermostat is getting power because it can’t work unless it does. It may not work properly with old batteries, so be sure to change them if it runs on batteries. Check if the thermostat’s circuit breaker is not tripped (if your thermostat is wired). If so, you can reset it at the main electric panel.
Make sure to check your thermostat’s settings twice. When the seasons change, it’s easy to forget about this. To start the furnace in the winter, turn the thermostat to “heat” and set the desired temperature a few degrees higher than the room’s present temperature.
If you think the thermostat could be malfunctioning, you can check its functionality with a multimeter. Take the lid off the thermostat and insert the probes of the multimeter into the wires to ensure continuity. The thermostat may need to be replaced if it does not provide any readings.
Take a look at where your thermostat is located. Avoid placing it near windows, as they can let drafts in, and keep it out of direct sunshine since it can overestimate the room temperature. If you want precise measurements, move it to a different spot.
When problems persist after a factory reset or recalibrating the programmable thermostat, it may be necessary to replace the unit. For more information on these steps, refer to the manufacturer’s manual. It may be time to upgrade that outdated mechanical thermostat to a more energy-efficient model if the issues continue.
Electrical Problems with the Heating system
-
Initial Checks
-
Circuit Breaker Reset
-
Wiring Inspection
-
Continuous Tripping
Make sure the furnace power switch is turned on. You can find this switch on or near the unit; it looks like a light switch. Make sure the main electrical panel’s furnace circuit breaker is on and not tripped.
If the circuit breakers are tripped, you can reset it by turning it off and then back on again. Sometimes, this can fix a little electrical problem. Be sure to keep an eye on the breaker after resetting it. If it trips again, it could indicate a more serious problem.
Check for damage, or wear and tear on any exposed wiring that goes into or out of the furnace system. All electrical connections must be tight and undamaged. Because of the potential dangers involved, it is recommended that you contact a professional if you notice any signs of damage or loose connections.
Avoid trying to reset the breaker again if it keeps tripping even after you have done so. If this keeps happening, it’s likely because of a wiring or furnace-related electrical problem. Diagnosing and securely fixing this issue requires the expertise of a professional.
Gas Supply Issues
-
Main Gas Valve Inspection
-
Furnace Gas Valve Check
-
Gas Flow Verification
-
Professional Inspection
Verify that the main gas valve is open; you can find it at the gas meter outside your house. The normal position of this valve, when open, is for it to be parallel to the pipe.
Make sure the gas valve for the furnace is open as well. Unintentionally turning off this valve is a common occurrence, particularly after maintenance or when the season is over.
Check the functionality of any other gas appliances you may have by turning them on. The heating system could be fine, but if they don’t, the issue might lie with the main gas line.
When troubleshooting the valves doesn’t fix what seems like a gas flow problem with the furnace, it’s time to get a professional inspector to take a look. Dealing with gas supply concerns is a task best left to experts due to the inherent dangers.
Furnace Ignition Switch and Pilot Light Failures
-
Check Electronic Ignition
-
Pilot Light Maintenance
-
Furnace Flame Sensor and Pilot Adjustment
Be sure to check the electronic ignition by listening for the clicking sound that usually happens when it tries to light the furnace. An electrical fault might be indicated by the absence of sound, whereas a failure in the ignition process could be indicated by constant rapid clicking.
Before performing any maintenance on a system that requires a furnace pilot light, be sure the light is turned on. If it goes out again and again after being lit, it could be because of a draft that puts out the flame or a broken thermocouple that requires tweaking or replacement. Dust and other debris can also cause problems, so it’s important to clean the area around the pilot light.
If the pilot light’s flame sensor gets sooty, it won’t be able to detect the flame. Gently wipe the sensor down with a fine abrasive cloth. Make sure the pilot’s flame is hitting the sensor correctly by adjusting it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Airflow Problems due to a dirty Air Filter
-
Air Filter Replacement
-
Ductwork Inspection
-
Professional Duct Cleaning
When changing a dirty air filter, look for the panel that allows you to access the filter, which is typically on the furnace’s front or side. Take it out of the air filters and put it in the light. Quickly replace it if light can’t enter through. Keep in mind that you can clean some filters with water and use them again and again.
Find any indications of obstruction or leakage in the available air ducts. Stop any holes or cracks from showing by sealing them with mastic or metal tape. Make sure that no furniture or curtains are blocking the return air grilles or supply vents.
If there still isn’t proper airflow and you think the ducts are clogged, you might want to think about getting a professional duct cleaning service. Indoor air quality and gas furnace efficiency can both be enhanced in this way.
Mechanical Failures
-
Blower Motor Check
-
Limit Switch Testing
When you hear the furnace try to turn on, that’s a good sign that the furnace blower motor is turning on. A power outage or broken motor would not be indicated by the absence of sound. If the blower is humming but not moving air, it could be because it is stuck or needs to be oiled.
You can check the continuity of the limit switch by using a multimeter. If continuity is not detected, the switch should be replaced. Proper diagnosis and replacement of this part is essential for safety reasons.
Safety Switches
- Flame Sensor Cleaning: To remove any accumulation, carefully clean it with steel wool or a mild abrasive cloth. Put the furnace back in place and make sure it’s working.
- Pressure Switch Check: The pressure switch is usually linked to the draft inducer motor via a tiny tube; find it so that you can inspect it. Since it is a safety feature, the furnace can not turn on if something goes wrong. If you believe that this component is faulty, it is best to have an expert check it out.
Calling a Professional HVAC technician for your furnace repair
If you find your furnace malfunctioning and simple troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the problem, it’s highly important to seek the expertise of a professional HVAC technician, such as those at Comfort Union. Complex challenges like issues with the gas supply, intricate electrical faults, or challenging system diagnostics require the skilled hands of technicians equipped with the right tools and training.
Engaging a specialized HVAC service provider ensures that your furnace repairs are comprehensive, restoring your system efficiently and safely while mitigating the risk of further complications.
Expertise and Safety: Handling HVAC systems requires precise knowledge and caution due to their complexity and potential hazards. Qualified technicians at Comfort Union have the skills necessary to safely manage repairs that extend beyond simple fixes, ensuring that all work complies with industry safety standards.
Comfort Union stands out as a premier option for professional HVAC services. Renowned for their dependability and expertise, Comfort Union employs a team of certified technicians adept at managing a diverse array of furnace problems.
Comprehensive Service: Each Comfort Union’s furnace technician is prepared to address a wide range of HVAC challenges, from routine check-ups to urgent service needs. They focus on delivering thorough service that not only resolves current issues but also enhances the system’s future performance and efficiency.
Preventive Maintenance: Consistent maintenance is crucial for prolonging the life of an HVAC system. Comfort Union provides customized maintenance programs designed to avert sudden failures and keep your furnace operating at optimal efficiency, helping to save costs and prevent discomfort over time.
Reach out to us to know more about our services today!