A non-functioning furnace on a cold day can be a nightmare. Whether loathed or loved, we depend on our heating systems for smooth, cozy, and secure living. Hence, there is a terrible feeling when faced suddenly with a furnace that is not heating. For that, don’t worry; we are here to assist you. Let’s cover why a furnace stops heating and what steps to take for a reliable solution.
Contact Sub Zero Temp Control’s technicians in Vancouver, WA, whenever you notice these signs.
Furnace Not Heating? Are All the Parts Functioning Properly?
A massive or expensive repair solution may not be required if the root of the problem is simple. For example:
- Turn the thermostat to ‘heat’ mode and select a temperature above the room temperature.
- Make sure to check the mechanics of the unit if something is outside of place.
- Keep an eye on the battery levels on the digital thermostats, as low batteries can cause problems. If they are low, replace them.
- Fan settings should be tested. If the auto feature is enabled, the furnace will start or stop based on the heat requirement. The fan will run nonstop if the setting is switched on, even if the furnace does not heat anything.
- Power Supply: Check to see if the gas furnace is receiving power. Gas furnaces can trip a circuit breaker, so go to your breaker box and look for the circuit that might need resetting. Now, look at that switch on the furnace; occasionally, other work done on the house, mainly repairs, can cause a switch near the furnace to be turned off.
- Air Filter: Pneumatic air valves and dampers can cause ducts to close and cool off. It’s common to see air blowers with no weight shutting off the furnace because it has no heat and can’t turn on. If this is the case, the solution is simple: You should replace or clean the air filter. On average, expect to change a filter during the heating season every one to three months; otherwise, the system will experience problems.
Most Common Reasons a Furnace Won’t Work
Assuming these fundamentals are done correctly, we can narrow down the most likely causes of heating performance issues.
Pilot Light Issues: Pilot light problems are typical for gas furnaces. If the pilot light does not stay on or does not light at all, the reason can be a defective thermocouple or a clogged pilot orifice.
Thermocouple Issues: Dirty or worn-out thermocouples that sense the flame would not allow our gas valve to stay open, hence causing the pilot light to get extinguished.
Fixes: Bringing a solution for these issues can be simply cleaning or thoroughly drying the pilot light opening or thermocouple, but if that doesn’t seem to work, then you would want to replace them as these problems can sometimes become increasingly worse.
Gas Supply Problems: Open the gas valve and check it. Maybe it’s closed. The gas supply issue could be the cause of the furnace not being able to generate heating.
Look for gas supply issues: Heretical gas causes the gas valve to receive gas. Never repair gas lines yourself, as there is a risk of explosion if the repair isn’t done correctly. It’s safer to call for help if there is an expected gas issue.
Thermostat Malfunction: If the thermostat has encountered a failure, it means there’s a lack of signal from it to the furnace to go ahead and begin heating; typically, these instances are mostly observed with older thermostats or due to the malfunctioning wires.
Solution: To test your thermostat, set it at 1 to 3 degrees higher than the current temperature reading. If the furnace doesn’t respond, it may be time to replace or repair it. However, if you desire an upgrade, it is wise to go for smart or programmable thermostats.
Less Common (But Possible) Causes
There are some more reasons why the furnace may not work properly. These are more common in numerous older versions or systems that have not been serviced as regularly.
Defective Limit Switch: A limit switch is a device that turns off a blower when it is about to overheat. If this switch is faulty, the furnace will not be able to maintain a warm home.
Solution: This isn’t good. A limit switch breaking down would certainly require an HVAC technician to assess it and replace it.
Blower Motor or Belt Issues: A blower motor blows heated air through the vents installed within the ducts. If the motor or the belt connected to it is damaged, the heater will not work correctly. This is characterized by screeching or banging sounds from a worn-out or loose belt.
Solution: Are you having trouble with your blower motor? It is best to call a professional. After all, they are not easy parts to deal with, and fixing them might require some in-depth knowledge or special tools.
Ductwork Problems: If warm air doesn’t reach your room, your ducting is cut or leaking. Insulation around ducting also helps prevent air heat loss. If spaces in your home don’t seem as warm as they should, there may be a ductwork problem.
Solution: If a professional seals your ducting and inspects it thoroughly, compromised integrity will be reduced, energy will be saved, and hot air will be supplied to every room.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, specific problems with a furnace require someone certified to operate it. Here is when Sub Zero Temp Control should be contacted.
Ignition Problems: Dangerous gas or electrical components in a furnace’s burning system could restrict the ignition cylinders’ function. A professional may be needed in case of gas leaks or faulty wires in the ignition system.
Gas Supply Concerns: You should call the technician to check that the gas valve is open, but you still have gas supply struggles. Gas lines should not be interfered with unless there is a need.
Limit Switch and Blower Motor Repairs: Repairing or replacing the limit switch and blower motor, along with other inner components, requires a wealth of experience and knowledge. Unfortunately, these are the most sensitive components of HVAC. It is highly recommended that you leave such repairs to professionals, as DIY repairs can cause more damage or void the warranty.
Installation of the New Thermostat: Replacing the old thermostat with a new one, especially a smart one, will involve some new wiring work. Hiring a licensed contractor will help ensure that the new wiring is safely done and that your thermostat’s full functionality guarantees maximum output from the furnace.
Regular Maintenance
One of the simplest ways to prevent furnace breakdown is to maintain your furnace on a routine basis. Here is how replaced parts or seasonal service management by Sub Zero Temp Control help maintain efficiency and increase the life span of the entire heating system.
Rinsing and Dusting off Cleaning: Furnace parts should be thoroughly cleaned as part of end-of-season service, as dirt impedes smooth and even airflow through furnace parts. Removing dirt and dust also improves the furnace’s heating performance while increasing its durability.
Professional Assessment: During the professional’s examination, the relevant components, such as the blower motor or the thermostat, limit switch, igniter, and so on, are inspected to determine whether they function as intended. This helps prevent significant repairs to the unit by identifying minor issues as they arise.
Periodic Inspections: This particular type of expert, a professional tune-up expert, evaluates basic aspects such as gas leakages, sparks within the electric circuitry of the system, and the dangers posed by the potentially hazardous fumes of carbon monoxide. Such checks ensure that when operated, the furnace is safe to use and does not endanger the family during the cold season.
All In All
In most cases, the malfunctioning of the heating system is related to minor problems such as the thermostat or the air filter. But if you are unable to localize the problem or are not able to fix it by yourself, seek the assistance of the experts at Sub Zero Temp Control in Vancouver, WA.
Our technicians possess the skill, experience, and requisite training to properly troubleshoot your heating system and, in turn, reinstate your home heating safely and effectively. Whether it is just a tune-up, part replacement, or even an entire furnace inspection, worry no more because we will always be able to help you keep warm throughout the winter.
Next time you encounter a cold and your furnace fails to respond, remember these easy fixes, and feel free to call us when you want. Together, we can find ways to keep your home warm and safe this season!
