How To Restart The Furnace: Must Know Guide!

Restarting a furnace is key for proper functioning, especially in the cold months. A failed start can be annoying and uncomfortable. It’s essential to know how to restart a furnace, so you don’t end up in this situation.

To restart a furnace:

  1. Check the power supply. Ensure access to power by checking switches, circuit breakers, and fuses.
  2. Inspect the filters. Clogged filters can block airflow, leading to blower malfunctions and poor performance. Clean or replace your filters accordingly.
  3. Reset the furnace. Different units have different reset processes. Refer to your manufacturer’s instructions for how to do this properly.
  4. Review error codes or issues. Check if your furnace has error codes showing on its thermostat, control board, or diagnostic light. Troubleshoot accordingly.
  5. Contact a professional technician. If all else fails or you’re unsure of what happened, contact an HVAC expert quickly to prevent more damage.

It’s important to note that oil furnaces have a different process than gas furnaces. Also, dirty air filters are not the only underlying problem of heaters shutting down. Sensors not working correctly or other issues with the heating system could be the cause.

Take these steps to get your furnace running again — no one wants to be cold in their own home!

How To Restart The Furnace

Steps to Restart a Gas Furnace


To restart a gas furnace, you’ll need to go through several steps to make sure it runs smoothly. With the sections, “Safety Precautions to Take Before Restarting”, “Check the Power Source and Reset Button”, “Check the Pilot Light and Re-Ignite if Necessary”, “Clean or Replace the Filter”, “Check the Thermostat and Heat Pump”, and “Identify and Address Soft Lockout or Hard Lockout Issues” as your guide, you can easily troubleshoot the furnace lockouts, identify and address issues with the pilot light, filter, and thermostat, and restart the furnace.

Safety Precautions to Take Before Restarting

To keep safe when reactivating your gas furnace, take the necessary precautions. These will help guard against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Here’s a guide:

  1. Switch off the power supply via circuit breaker
  2. Let the furnace cool for at least 30 mins after turning it off
  3. Clean or change the air filter & check all vents for blockages
  4. Inspect the chimney & exhaust pipes for damage or debris
  5. Check the wiring for wear & tear & fix, if needed
  6. Make sure you have working smoke alarms installed

Also, keep away flammable items from the furnace area. Don’t store gasoline, paint thinners, or cleaning solvents close to the furnace.

I’d like to share a story of what happens when safety measures are not taken. A man turned on his gas furnace after a long summer without any safety checks. The dust ignited, causing massive damage. If he had taken precautions such as cleaning the filters and vents, this incident could have been avoided.

If the furnace won’t start, don’t worry – just check the power source & reset button. It may just need a restart!

Check the Power Source and Reset Button

To keep your furnace running smoothly, follow these simple steps:

1. Switch off the power source.
2. Look for the reset button on the control panel.
3. Push and hold it for a few seconds, then release it.
4. Turn the power source back on.

Note: If this doesn’t work, contact a professional. Don’t forget that different furnaces have different reset button locations. Refer to the manual or hire an HVAC technician for guidance.

Also, regular maintenance and cleaning by a qualified professional can help maximize the furnace’s lifespan and reduce unexpected breakdowns. 

Plus, replacing air filters regularly can minimize energy costs and improve furnace performance. So don’t be left in the cold – light a pilot light and keep your furnace running!

Check the Pilot Light and Re-Ignite if Necessary

It’s essential to inspect your gas furnace’s pilot light and reignite it if needed. This is crucial because pilot light failure can disrupt the furnace. Here are 6 steps to check and reignite the pilot light:

  1. Turn off the supply valve.
  2. Open the access panel.
  3. Check for damage or debris.
  4. Clean and reposition.
  5. Manually reignite per instructions.
  6. Call a professional if unsuccessful.

Gas pressure regulation is important during ignitions. Imbalance can cause great damage. Electric ignitions replace manual lighting, making it easy for anyone to use.

Your furnace filter should be kept clean and replaced when it’s too old. It’s like a good relationship – clean and new!

Clean or Replace the Filter

When it comes to your gas furnace, focus on its filter! It’s essential for proper operation. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Locate the filter using your owner’s manual.
  • Switch off the furnace before cleaning or replacing it.
  • If cleaning, use a soft brush to vacuum the surface.
  • If replacing, buy a filter that fits the furnace size and MERV rating.
  • Install the new filter correctly.
  • Switch on the furnace & observe its performance.

Regular upkeep will extend the system’s lifespan. Plus, it’ll help keep allergens at bay. Not to mention, if you ignore maintenance, you’re likely to face costly repairs or replacements. So, take care of your filter and enhance your performance. Oh, and don’t forget to check your thermostat!

Check the Thermostat and Heat Pump

Restarting a gas furnace requires a crucial step – making sure the thermostat and heat pump are working correctly. To do this:

  1. Ensure the thermostat is set to “heat” mode.
  2. Set the temperature above room temp.
  3. Listen for sounds from the heat pump, indicating it’s on.
  4. If nothing, examine the wiring or replace the batteries.

Remember: some thermostats require special batteries. Check first!

Verifying these items helps to avoid costlier repairs down the line. Plus, EnergyStar.gov says properly maintaining the furnace can save 30% on energy costs each year. That’s better than my love life!

Identify and Address Soft Lockout or Hard Lockout Issues

Gas furnaces may suffer from soft or hard lockouts, which stop it from working. To fix this and restart the furnace, here’s a four-step guide:

StepDescription
1Check the thermostat setting. Is it too low or high for the room temperature?
2Inspect and reset the limit switch.
3Look out for blockages in the ventilation system.
4Check for electrical problems with components.

It’s essential to take care of these elements to address soft or hard lockouts.

If none of these steps work, check the pilot light. If that’s fine, then contact a technician.

Ignoring maintenance and safety precautions can cause dangerous home environments. This includes gas leaks and burnt circuits, leading to bigger issues. Restore your oil furnace with these steps!

Steps to Restart an Oil Furnace


To restart an oil furnace with the steps of checking fuel, filter, burner, and control board, you need to take safety precautions first. 

Then, proceed to check and reset the power or toggle switch, ensure oil is available, and check and possibly replace the oil filter. You may also need to reset the oil burner and diagnose any issues in the control board or sensors.

Safety Precautions to Take Before Restarting

Ensure safety when restarting an oil furnace – take precautions! Here’s a guide on what to do before restarting:

StepsInstructions
1.Turn off the power supply. This ensures no electricity is connected to the furnace and you can work safely.
2.Check for leaks. Inspect the tank, fuel line, and combustion chamber – they may have leaks.
3.Ventilate the room. Burning accumulated exhaust fumes could be risky.
4.Check the filters. If the HVAC/air conditioner was off during this period, ensure it is back on before cleaning/maintaining filters.

Check the pilot light and don’t forget to switch off the power supply. Don’t neglect these steps – they will help you maintain functionality with absolute security.

Check and Reset the Power Switch or Toggle Switch

To get your oil furnace up and running again, check and reset any switches or toggles. Here are the steps:

  1. Locate the power switch or toggle
  2. Turn off the switch for at least 30 seconds
  3. Switch it back on and confirm it’s operating correctly

Be sure to turn off the power completely before resetting. If you can’t find the switch or toggle, consult your owner’s manual for help.

Pro tip: Regularly check and reset the switches or toggles on your furnace to help avoid future issues. Avoid becoming the main course – check the fuel tank and top it up!

Check the Fuel Tank Gauge and Make Sure There’s Oil

To guarantee your oil furnace runs smoothly, it is essential to ensure it has enough fuel. Check the fuel tank gauge to verify how much oil is in the tank. If the gauge shows less than a quarter of a tank, arrange a new delivery of heating oil.

Inspect for any visible signs of damage or leaks. If there are, contact a professional technician to check and repair your furnace.

Providing your furnace with enough fuel is essential for efficient and consistent heating. Not doing so may lead to pricey repairs or even total breakdowns.

Wood-burning stoves were used to warm homes until coal became a go-to choice during WWII. Nowadays, oil furnaces are popular in Western countries as they are cost-effective and efficient. Don’t forget to check your oil filter, or else you might just end up with a rusty paperweight!

Check the Oil Filter and Replace it if Necessary

Ensure the smooth operation of your oil furnace by regularly inspecting and replacing the oil filter if necessary. Not doing so may lead to lower efficiency and more fuel consumption. Here are the 3 steps:

  1. Turn off the power supply. Shut down both the furnace and its auxiliary system to avoid any accidents.
  2. Remove the old filter. Dispose of it carefully with no spillage. Make sure you remember the location of the new one.
  3. Install the new filter. Put it in the same place and secure its rubber gasket. Then, turn the power back on to test.

Consult your manufacturer’s guide for how often to do this. It’s beneficial to arrange routine maintenance with a pro. Changing filters frequently will help extend your equipment’s life and reduce fuel costs. Lastly, resetting an oil burner is like hitting the snooze button – it’s just the reboot you need to get going again.

Check the Oil Burner and Reset if Necessary

To get your oil furnace running, check the oil burner. Here’s what to do:

  1. Locate the red reset button on the burner motor.
  2. Press and release it quickly – don’t hold it down.
  3. If it doesn’t start, turn off the power for a few minutes, then back on again.
  4. Check for enough fuel in the tank or arrange delivery if needed.
  5. If there’s still an issue, call a professional.

Check other potential problems that could prevent your oil furnace from working. Clogged air filters or malfunctioning thermostats are a few key issues. Don’t risk going without heat in cold temperatures – act fast!

Fix the furnace’s control board today – it’s like playing Operation, only more important.

Identify and Address any Issues with the Control Board or Sensors

Issues with the furnace’s control board or sensors can be a real hurdle. To prevent further expenses, troubleshoot and resolve them in time. Here’s a 3-step guide:

  1. Check the air filter for any blockages or dirt.
  2. Examine the wiring between the furnace and thermostat.
  3. Look for damage signs such as melted wires or burnt components.

Before you start, make sure that you have all the safety gear on. Also, keep the workspace clean.

If you can’t do it yourself, call the professionals immediately. Jim’s story is a reminder that DIY maintenance can lead to expensive consequences. Get ready to troubleshoot the dormant furnace!

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips for Furnace Restart


To restart your furnace, you may come across some common problems like furnace lockouts and error codes, as well as issues with the blower or airflow. In addition, a dirty or clogged filter can cause problems, as can issues with your smart thermostat or control unit. Other possible issues could arise as well. 

In this section, we will provide you with troubleshooting tips to overcome these problems and a guide for the next steps for repair.

Furnace Lockouts and Error Codes

Furnace lockouts and error codes can be disruptive. To figure out the cause, observe the table below. It shows probable reasons and solutions for furnace shutdowns.

Check the table for help:

Furnace ShutdownProbable ReasonsSolution
Flame Sensor ErrorDirty or faulty flame sensorClean or replace the flame sensor
Ignition FailureGas valve closed, dirty burners, faulty ignition moduleEnsure gas supply is on, clean burners, replace the ignition module
High Limit SwitchOverheating furnace due to clogged air filter or faulty blower motorReplace/clean air filter, repair/replace blower motor

Remember, furnace errors can be caused by many things. If the solutions don’t work, contact a pro. Don’t wait – take action right away! Delaying repairs can lead to more costly fixes and can damage the appliance’s lifespan. So, don’t let FOMO take control of your life – address furnace issues for uninterrupted warmth this winter! If the blower is weak, give it some TLC.

Issues with Blower or Airflow

When it comes to furnace maintenance, blower or airflow problems can cause big issues. Without the right airflow, your furnace can’t effectively heat your home. A clogged air filter is one potential issue. This can obstruct airflow and lead to a build-up of dust and debris.

To solve this, replace or clean the air filter as recommended by the manufacturer. Another issue could be a broken blower motor. This can greatly reduce airflow and result in inadequate heating.

If you suspect a faulty motor, contact an HVAC pro. Blocked registers or vents can also affect airflow. Make sure to keep all registers and vents free of anything that could block them. Cleaning these areas once a year by removing dust or debris will help them work better.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent common problems like blower motor failures or airflow obstructions. To get proper heating from your furnace, you need to maintain it and troubleshoot when needed. Start by dealing with blower or airflow issues straight away. Clean or get a technician for speedy repairs.

Dirty or Clogged Filter

A Blocked Filter in Your Furnace Can Cause Restart Issues. Dirty filters can block air movement needed for combustion, reducing airflow and causing efficiency to drop. This can lead to overheating of heat exchangers, triggering shut-downs or short-cycling.

It’s essential to replace or clean filters as needed. Check with your manufacturer to see what they recommend. Reusable filters need to be washed and put back in correctly.

Pro Tip: Check your filters often. Dirty ones cost more and put extra strain on furnace components. Can’t control the thermostat? Why not make it a sauna and charge admission?

Problems with Smart Thermostat or Control Unit

Is your furnace not working? It may be due to glitches in the thermostat or control system. Here are some of the major issues:

  • Connection problems that lead to no display & slow response.
  • Mismatch in firmware versions causing improper communication.
  • Temperature limits not programmed or set correctly.
  • Voltage fluctuation in battery-operated thermostats.
  • Compatibility issues with different manufacturers’ systems.

Be sure to check the device is connected & installed properly. Use the latest version of firmware for correct functioning. Compatibility issues must be dealt with cautiously. Match your system hardware before buying.

Pro Tip: Service & inspect your heating systems regularly to ensure uninterrupted performance during cold weather. And, remember: there’s always a guy called Bob who knows a guy who can fix it!

FAQs


1. How often should I restart my furnace?

It is recommended to restart your furnace at the beginning of each heating season or after a prolonged period of inactivity, such as during the summer months.

2. What are the steps to restart a furnace?

To restart a furnace, follow these steps:

  • Ensure the thermostat is set to the “”off”” position.
  • Locate the furnace’s power switch and turn it off.
  • Wait for at least 30 seconds before turning the power switch back on.
  • Set the thermostat to your desired temperature and turn it on.
  • The furnace should start up and begin heating your home.

3. Why is it important to restart the furnace properly?

Restarting the furnace properly ensures that it functions efficiently and safely. It allows the system to go through its startup sequence, which includes checking for any issues or malfunctions before heating your home.

4. Can I restart the furnace if there is a gas smell?

No, if you detect a gas smell, do not attempt to restart the furnace. Gas leaks can be dangerous and should be addressed by a professional immediately. Leave your home and contact your gas provider or emergency services.

5. How long does it take for a furnace to restart?

The time it takes for a furnace to restart can vary depending on the specific model and condition of the system. Generally, it takes a few minutes for the furnace to go through its startup sequence and begin heating your home.

6. Should I check the furnace filter before restarting?

Yes, it is recommended to check the furnace filter before restarting the furnace. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of the system. Replace the filter if necessary.

7. What should I do if the furnace doesn’t restart after following the steps?

If the furnace doesn’t restart after following the steps, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure the furnace has power. If the issue persists, it is advisable to contact a professional HVAC technician for further inspection and repairs.

8. Can I restart the furnace if the pilot light is out?

If your furnace has a pilot light and it is out, you can attempt to relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable doing so, it is best to contact a professional technician to relight the pilot light for you.

Conclusion 


After going through the furnace restart process, it’s key to understand the next steps and possible outcomes. If you reset your furnace successfully after a soft lockout or dirty filter, you can go on with your heating system without any issues. But, if you have a hard lockout or greater issues, you need a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem.

If your smart thermostat had an error code or your room temperature didn’t go up after the furnace reboot, there could be other underlying problems. It could be due to electrical components, control board malfunction, or clogged air sensors. You can try replacing old sensors for furnace repair.

When starting up or rebooting, some furnaces need different processes. Oil furnaces need priming after being idle for a while. Without proper priming of the tank and oil pipe frame before restarting, you could damage the unit forever.

It’s important to know that improper handling during restarting can be worse than poor maintenance. By following basic steps, like properly checking power switches and fuse boxes before applying new settings, you save time and money.

Finally, whether electric or gas furnaces, it’s essential to know that temperatures won’t reach full heating capacity in seconds, but in minutes, slowly rising up until reaching the degrees given by the manufacturer.