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When winter rolls in, your furnace is your best friend—keeping your home warm and cozy during chilly winter nights. But what happens if your furnace suddenly stops working or doesn’t seem to be heating properly? Don’t panic! Before you call in a professional, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and possibly fix the issue yourself.
In this blog, Alder Plumbing Heating & Air shares expert tips for troubleshooting your furnace. Whether you’re dealing with a furnace that won’t turn on, isn’t blowing warm air, or is making strange noises, these steps will help you diagnose the problem and, in some cases, resolve it without the need for costly repairs.
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
Believe it or not, many furnace issues are simply due to incorrect thermostat settings. Before diving into more complicated troubleshooting, make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature.
What to Do:
- Set the thermostat to your desired temperature, then make sure the furnace switches to heating mode.
- Replace the thermostat’s batteries if it’s a battery-operated model.
- Check if the display on your thermostat is working—if it’s blank or malfunctioning, it might need to be replaced.
2. Check the Furnace Power Supply
Your furnace relies on a steady power source to function. If your furnace isn’t turning on at all, it could be a power issue.
What to Do:
- Check if the furnace’s power switch (usually located near the furnace unit) is in the “ON” position.
- Make sure the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. If it is, reset it and see if the furnace starts working again.
- For gas furnaces, ensure that the gas valve is open and supplying gas to the unit.
3. Inspect the Air Filter
A clogged or dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons for furnace problems. When the air filter is blocked, airflow is restricted, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down.
What to Do:
- Turn off the furnace and remove the air filter.
- Inspect the filter—if it’s dirty or clogged with dust, replace it with a new one.
- Clean the filter if it’s reusable, or replace it every 1-3 months for optimal performance.
4. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition System
If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, it’s possible that the light has gone out. Modern furnaces, however, use an electronic ignition system, which can also fail.
What to Do:
- For pilot light models: If the pilot light is out, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions. If it doesn’t stay lit, there could be a problem with the thermocouple (which controls the flow of gas) and might need replacing.
- For electronic ignition systems: If it still isn’t working after troubleshooting the thermostat and power supply, check the ignition system. If it seems faulty, it may need a replacement.
5. Listen for Unusual Noises
Furnaces can make a variety of sounds, but certain noises are a sign of trouble. If yours is making a loud banging, whistling, or squealing noise, it could indicate a mechanical problem or a lack of airflow.
What to Do:
- Banging or popping sounds may indicate a buildup of dirt or gas in the furnace burners. Turn it off and call a professional to inspect and clean the system.
- Whistling or squealing sounds can be caused by a loose belt, malfunctioning motor, or issues with the blower. These noises usually require professional attention to avoid further damage.
6. Reset the Furnace
If you’ve gone through the steps above and your furnace still isn’t working, resetting it might help. Many modern furnaces have a reset button that can restore functionality if the system is locked out or overheated.
What to Do:
- Locate the furnace’s reset button (usually near the motor or on the control panel).
- Press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds.
- Wait a few minutes and see if the it kicks back on.
7. Check for Airflow Blockages
Restricted airflow is a common culprit in furnace issues. Blockages in the ductwork, vents, or even the furnace itself can cause the furnace to overheat, shut down, or fail to heat your home properly.
What to Do:
- Inspect all air vents and registers to ensure they are open and free of obstructions (like furniture, rugs, or debris).
- Check the ducts for any visible signs of blockage, dust, or dirt. If you notice a blockage that you can’t easily remove, consider scheduling a professional duct cleaning.
8. Monitor Furnace Cycling
If your furnace seems to turn on and off frequently (short cycling), this could indicate an issue with the thermostat, air filter, or overheating.
What to Do:
- Ensure the thermostat is in a stable, consistent location—away from heat sources or drafts that could cause inaccurate readings.
- Make sure the air filter is clean and that the airflow isn’t restricted.
- If short cycling continues, call a professional, as it could signal a problem with the furnace’s blower motor, limit switch, or heat exchanger.
When to Call Alder Plumbing Heating & Air
If your furnace is still not functioning properly after troubleshooting, it’s time to call in the experts. Alder Plumbing Heating & Air offers expert furnace repair services. Our experienced technicians can diagnose the issue and provide fast, reliable repairs to restore comfort to your home.
Whether you need a furnace inspection, repair, or a complete replacement, we’re here to ensure your heating system is working efficiently throughout the winter months. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get in touch with us for all your heating needs!