Table of Contents
Common Furnace Problems For That Furnace Is Not Heating
If your furnace isn’t heating properly, there might be some common issues. One could be a clogged air filter restricting airflow. Another could be a malfunctioning thermostat or pilot light. Or maybe it’s a faulty gas line or blower motor. If you think there might be a gas leak, turn off the furnace and call an expert right away.
Image of a small gas furnace
To fix the problem, check the air filter and replace it if needed. Make sure the switches and breakers are on, and any fuses aren’t blown. If the pilot light’s out, follow the furnace manual to relight it. Vacuum any dust or debris from the vents and ductwork.
If none of this works, try resetting the limit switch near the burner in the furnace cabinet. If that fails too, you might need a professional repair technician to look at the ignition sensor or flame sensor.
Do regular maintenance checks with an HVAC pro to keep your heating system running smoothly. Also, don’t block registers or supply vents with furniture or other items. Lastly, replace the furnace filter regularly to avoid clogs and damage.
Checking the Furnace That Is Not Heating
Checking your furnace is key to keeping it running smoothly.
Here’s how to do it:
- Start by turning off the power switch and gas supply valve. Then, turn off the thermostat and wait a few mins for the system to cool.
- Remove the access panel and inspect for any wear or damage. Check all electrical components and wires, like switches, fuses, & circuit breaker.
- Check the air filter and replace if dirty/clogged. Inspect the blower motor, pilot light igniter/flame sensor (if applicable). Clean them with a vacuum/compressed air if needed.
Regularly checking your furnace can help prevent costly repairs. If you find something out of place or can’t inspect it, call a professional.
Last year, my neighbor had an issue with his heating system. On a chilly evening in November, he turned on his heater but nothing happened but noises coming from his vents. A professional repair person found a piece of furniture had fallen on the main ductwork, causing tension & breakage over time. This blocked airflow & clogged filters.
Steps to Fix a Furnace that is Not Heating
Fixing a furnace that won’t heat can be a real headache. So, try these steps to get it running again and your home cozy and warm:
- Check the thermostat. Is it set to “heat” mode and higher than the current room temperature?
- Inspect the filter. If it’s clogged or has dirt, replace it.
- Look at the pilot light/flame sensor. If it’s not lit, relight or clean it.
- Verify the gas supply and line. Open the valve and check the lines for leaks or damage.
- Check the control board/ignition sensor. Make sure all the electrical components are in the right spot. Reset any circuit breakers or fuses.
- Look at the blower motor/tension/sensor limit switch. It may need lubrication or repairs. Find the switch on the front access panel.
Regular maintenance and cleaning will help your furnace run better. Keep vents open and clean every month. Don’t cover registers with furniture. Never use duct tape unless an expert says it’s okay. And, replace the filter every month or as manufacturer’s instructions say.
Follow these steps and advice and you can keep your home safe and warm while avoiding costly repairs. But, if you’re not a DIY enthusiast, I recommend leaving it to the pros!
Hiring a Professional Furnace Repair Technician
As a homeowner, it is essential to keep your heating system in check before winter arrives. If you have problems that can’t be fixed with manual help, contact a furnace repair technician.
Follow this guide for hiring the best technician:
- Do your research – Check their certifications, licenses, insurance and experience.
- Ask for references – Get recommendations from family and friends or contact details of previous customers.
- Get written estimates – Discuss pricing and get all details in writing.
- Check reviews online – Look at ratings on Google reviews, Yelp and social media.
Before hiring, ensure the technician is suitable for your heating system’s needs. Confirm whether they are specialized in gas or electric furnaces.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Hire the best technician and schedule an appointment now to prevent any damage during the winter season. And if all else fails, just duct tape the furnace door shut and pretend it’s a new piece of modern art.
Conclusion
When it comes to furnace repair, there are many reasons why your heating system might not work properly. It might be a blower issue, a gas line problem, a thermostat malfunction, a heat exchanger breakdown, or even a clogged filter causing airflow problems. But, before calling a technician, you can troubleshoot the most common furnace problems yourself. First, make sure the power switch is on and the cabinet door is closed. If nothing happens when you raise the thermostat, check your circuit breaker or fuse box. Also, make sure all vents and registers are open. Then, check your pilot light and ignition sensor. If the pilot light is out or damaged, relight it or replace it. Clean your flame sensor carefully with sandpaper or an emery cloth. If there’s still no heat, look for damage or leaks. Clean any fuel stains around oil ports or fuel lines. If necessary, open access panels to inspect sections of the unit. Be careful when doing so.