When the furnace stops working, it can be a major inconvenience at the very least, or downright dangerous if the weather is bad enough. To minimize your inconvenience and avoid scheduling a costly emergency service call, there are several things that you can easily check on your own before calling in the professionals to diagnose your furnace problems.
System Won’t Turn On
Make sure that the thermostat is set correctly and that it has fresh batteries, if required. If the thermostat seems to be working, make sure that the breakers for the furnace are not tripped, and reset them if necessary. If the furnace still won’t operate, make sure that the gas valve is turned on, and that the pilot light is lit or the electronic igniter is working properly. Relight the pilot light if necessary or repair the igniter.
Furnace Not Producing Enough Heat
Double check the thermostat settings and make sure that the air filter is not clogged or dirty. Replace it, if necessary. Make sure that none of the supply or return vents are blocked by furniture, curtains, or other items, and that they are reasonably clean. If the furnace still will not produce enough heat, the burners may be dirty or there may be other serious problems that will require a professional inspection.
System Cycles On and Off Frequently
Replace the air filter, if necessary, and make sure the thermostat is working properly. It may be necessary to adjust the heat anticipator, which turns the heat on or off as the appropriate temperatures are reached. It may allow the furnace to cycle too quickly if it is out of adjustment. If there are still problems with the furnace, make sure that the blower motor belt is properly adjusted and that the fan is reasonably clean.
Fan Will Not Turn Off
Make sure the fan is not set to “on” or “continuous” at the thermostat. Have the limit control switch checked if the problem continues.
For help with your furnace problems, talk to the experts at Ace Hardware Home Services, Inc. We serve the Dayton and Springfield areas.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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