If your furnace isn’t turning on, don’t worry; we have some simple troubleshooting steps you can try. With winter here, your furnace is ready for the season ahead. As a homeowner, you know how frustrating it can be to expect a warm and cozy home only to discover that your furnace isn’t working.
Before you panic and reach out to your Kettering-Oakwood Heating & Air professionals, remember that there are several common issues that might be causing your heating system to malfunction. Here’s a simple troubleshooting list to help you identify the problem and take some basic steps to fix your furnace.
Step One: Go Ahead and Check on the Power Source
When troubleshooting a problem, the first step is to check the power source. After all, “With great power, comes great responsibility.”
Jokes aside, there are two main power sources to look at based on your furnace type: the circuit breaker or the gas or oil supply.
Check the Circuit Breaker: If your furnace runs off of electricity, you’ll need to check the circuit breaker. It’s possible that the circuit breaker for your furnace has tripped, which would have cut off the power to your heating system. So, be sure to check out your electrical panel and look for any switches that are in the “off” position or somewhere between “on” and “off.” More often than you think, a breaker switch could look like it’s in the “on” position, but it is positioned in the middle and, therefore, looks like it is turned on but is actually turned “off.”
To fix this, reset any tripped breaker switches by flipping them completely to “off” and then back to “on.” If the breaker trips again, there might be a deeper electrical issue that needs a professional’s help. Also, keep in mind that circuit breakers can wear out over time. If this happens frequently, consider talking to a professional to see if a circuit breaker repair or replacement is the best option.
Check the Fuel Supply: If your furnace runs on fuel, it needs a steady supply to work properly. Problems like a closed valve or an empty oil tank can stop your furnace from turning on. You can safely check if the gas valve is in the right position, but if you think there’s an issue with the gas pressure, it’s best to call in a professional.
Step Two: Go Ahead and Check on the Thermostat If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Next, let’s check the thermostat, which acts as the command center for your HVAC system. If your furnace isn’t turning on, the issue might be an easy fix with the thermostat. Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. This will give your heating system a chance to reach the desired temperature.
Sometimes, the thermostat itself may just not be functioning properly. It happens. Try checking the batteries and replacing them (if this applies to your thermostat model). In the case that your thermostat is still not responding as it should, this is a good indication that an HVAC technician may need to assess it for a proper diagnosis.
Step Three: Go Ahead and Check on the Air Filters If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Have you checked your HVAC system’s air filters? It might seem minor, but a clogged filter can seriously impact your furnace’s performance. When the filter is dirty and filled with dust and other particles, it restricts airflow, which can cause the furnace to overheat and shut down for safety.
If the filter is dirty, try replacing it with a new one. It’s a good idea to change the air filters regularly—ideally every 1-3 months. This helps improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and extends its lifespan.
Step Four: Check if the Ducts are Blocked If Your Furnace Is Not Powering On
Did you know that blocked or obstructed ducts can stop your furnace from working properly? When airflow is blocked, it signals to your furnace that something is wrong, causing it to shut down. For instance, if objects fall into the ductwork, some furnaces might go into safety mode and won’t turn on.
Some furnaces are designed to respond this way as a safety measure against carbon monoxide poisoning in the home. While specific conditions must be met for this to happen, your safety is the top priority. Therefore, it’s best to address any obstructions as soon as possible.
Step Five: Go Ahead and Check on the Drain Pan If Your Furnace Is Not Turning On
Modern furnaces have several safety features. For example, if a drain pan collects too much moisture, it can activate a safety switch that stops the furnace from working. If your problem isn’t fixed at this point, it’s a good idea to check the drain pan (usually found under the furnace) and empty it if it’s full of water.
So, if you notice that the drain pan fills up often, this could signal a drainage issue with your HVAC system. If that’s the case, it’s time to give us a call.
On an Ending Note:
Dealing with a furnace that won’t turn on can be frustrating, but you can usually fix this issue by following the troubleshooting steps above. By checking the circuit breaker, thermostat, air filter, ducts, drain pan, pilot light, and fuel supply, you can often pinpoint and resolve the problem yourself.
If that doesn’t work, remember that your Kettering-Oakwood Heating & Air team is here to help! With our expertise in furnace repair and maintenance, we can quickly get your furnace back up and running.
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities! Contact Kettering-Oakwood Heating & Air today at (937) 502-3842, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
