The last thing you want to discover when the temperature dips is that your central heating isn’t working properly. Even if you have been scheduling regular HVAC tune-ups and maintenance throughout the year, malfunctions can still occur. Before you call the professionals for help, be sure to go through these troubleshooting steps and you may be able to solve the problem yourself.
- Start with the Basics
Start by turning the thermostat to a temperature that should turn on the heater. If the furnace doesn’t respond, your next step is to check the circuit breaker. You should be able to visually tell if the breaker to the heating unit has been tripped. Fortunately, this is an easy fix and all you have to do is switch the breaker all the way off before turning it back on. It is also a good idea to do a quick visual inspection of your furnace to make sure that you don’t see any blown fuses and that the furnace door is completely closed.
- Check the Pilot Light
Gas and propane furnaces rely on a pilot light that is usually located at the bottom of the furnace. This light needs to stay running in order for the furnace to work properly. If you don’t see the light, locate and turn off the gas reset valve which can be found inside the unit. Before you turn the valve back on, you will want to wait a minimum of five minutes. If resetting the gas valve doesn’t work, there may be an issue with the igniter and it may need to be replaced. Also, you can manually relight the pilot light to get the furnace running again. Refer to the instructions in your appliance’s owner’s manual for specific steps on how to do this. Better yet, have a professional handle this as safety is key! If your pilot lift is going out on a regular basis, you will want to contact certified hvac contractors.
- Check the Filters
If your furnace is not blowing, the problem may be dirty filters in the cold air returns. These filters can become blocked with dirt and debris over time, which will block airflow. Replace the filters and be sure to check them at least twice a year. While you are at it, don’t forget to change your air filter on a regular basis.
Once you have taken some simple steps to troubleshoot your heating problems without any luck, it is time to call in the HVAC installation and heating system repair. The right service provider will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and fix the central heating. No one likes to think about repair bills, so remember to continue with regular maintenance to reduce the frequency and cost of necessary repairs. This will also ensure that you are able to enjoy a safe and comfortable indoor environment throughout the year.
Comments are closed.