As the seasons change, it can feel like a roller coaster as the temperatures go up and down. This inconsistent weather means that your furnace is under strain as it required to turn on and off over and over. Unfortunately, you may find that one day your furnace will just not turn on. This situation can be frustrating as it is likely to happen on a cold day, but it is important not to panic. You can follow these basic troubleshooting steps to see if you can resolve the issue or if you need to call in a professional.
Check the Power:
The first step to take is to check your furnace power source. If your system is propane powered, check that there is propane in your tank. You should check the gauges to ensure that you have enough fuel to ignite your furnace and keep it running. If your system is gas or electric, ensure that your breaker is turned on. The breaker should be labeled as “furnace” in the circuit breaker box. Finally, check that the switch on your furnace is turned on. If your furnace has one, the switch should look like a light switch and be fairly obvious.
Test the Thermostat:
Although this does sound simple, the thermostat not being turned on is a common underlying cause of a furnace not turning on. Don’t assume that your thermostat is automatically turned on, it may have a manual setting which needs to be adjusted to “heat” or “on”. Settings can be accidentally or inadvertently changed. The temperature on the thermostat may have been altered, so the system does not recognize it needs to turn on. Test your thermostat to see if adjusting the temperature and settings will trigger the furnace. A quick two minute check could save you a red face and a call out charge.
Do a Sniff Test:
If your furnace is gas fueled, it is a good idea to do a sniff test. You should always be aware that a rotten egg odor is a sign that you could have some form of a leak, and you will need immediate assistance. Even a small gas leak can be highly dangerous and needs to be resolved quickly with an emergency repair.
Change the Filters:
If there is a foul odor that does not smell of gas, it is a good idea to check the furnace filter; something could have become trapped, creating a blockage and nasty smell. Many furnaces have built in safety systems, so it is a good idea to ensure that the system is clear before trying to turn it on again. Some newer systems are more sensitive to a clogged filter. Dirty filters compromise airflow and efficiency. You may find that the system automatically shuts down because a filter has become ineffective. It is also a good idea to check the air filters to see if they also need replacement. Most manufacturers recommend that air filters are changed every two to three months.
If you have tried all these measures, you are likely to need professional assistance. A professional HVAC technician will be able to assess your system and quickly trace any potential fault.