If your furnace will not start, you are likely not looking forward to the months. However, do not panic because you can do a few things to troubleshoot the problem and get your furnace up and running again. In this article, we will give you some tips on what to do if your furnace will not turn on, as well as how to spot common furnace problems.
Things to Do If Furnace Is Not Turning On
- See Whether it is Plugged in
First, check to make sure that it is plugged in and that the breaker has not been turned off. If it is plugged in and the breaker is on, there may be a problem with the furnace itself. Try turning off the power to the furnace at the circuit breaker and then turning it back on.
- Check the Thermostat
When your furnace will not start, the first thing you should do is check the thermostat. If it has turned off or set to away, your furnace will not turn on. Make sure the battery is also working in the thermostat. If everything looks good there, check the furnace switch to make sure it is in the on position. If it is, and your furnace still is not turning on, then it is time to call a technician. You should also make sure that the thermostat is set to heat and the fan setting is on auto.
- Check For Clogged Filter
When your furnace will not start, another place you should look is the filter. A clogged filter can prevent your furnace from turning on, so it is important to check and make sure the filter is clean. If it is clogged, be sure to clean or replace it as soon as possible. Taking this simple step can help ensure that your furnace will work properly.
- Clear Obstructions Around The Furnace Vent
If your furnace is not turning on, there could be a blockage in the vent. This is a common problem, especially during winter, and can be easily fixed by clearing the obstruction.
The Things That Cause Furnace Problems
Most homeowners will experience a problem with their furnace at some point. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, furnaces account for about one-third of all home energy usage. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the most common furnace problems and the best methods to troubleshoot them. This can help you save money on your energy bill and extend the life of your furnace. Some of the most common problems include:
- Lack of Maintenance
Neglecting to perform regular maintenance is the number one cause of furnace problems. Maintenance involves checking filters, cleaning vents and fans, and lubricating moving parts. Regular furnace maintenance is key to keeping your heating system running properly and ensuring that your home stays comfortable. Unfortunately, many people neglect this important task, which can lead to a variety of problems.
- Dirty Air Filters
Clogged air filters reduce airflow and can cause the furnace to overheat. If you have a dirty air filter in your furnace, it can cause all sorts of problems. It will not only affect the furnace’s performance but also lead to increased energy costs and even damage the furnace itself.
- Dirty Vents/Fans
Dirty vents and fans can have a negative impact on your furnace. They not only affect the performance of your furnace but can also lead to an increase in your energy bills. Dirty vents and fans can cause your furnace to work harder than necessary, leading to an increased chance of a breakdown. By keeping your vents and fans clean, you can help your furnace run more efficiently and extend its life.
- Unlubricated Furnace
If you are like most people, you probably do not give much thought to the lubricant that is used on the parts of your furnace. You may not even realize that there is a difference between using a lubricant and not using one. However, the effects of using an unlubricated furnace can be disastrous. An unlubricated furnace causes wear and tear due to metal-on-metal contact. This can cause significant damage over time.
No one wants to think about their furnace not working, but the truth is that it can happen to anyone. If you find yourself in this situation, do not panic. You can implement the aforementioned tips to try and get your furnace up and running again. However, if these methods fail, consider reaching out to professional furnace repairers to help you out.