My Heater Is Not Working, What Gives?
A functioning furnace is not just a comfort but a necessity. However, homeowners often run into trouble when troubleshooting a furnace on their own. Trying to fix the issue yourself can put both your unit and yourself at risk.
Absolute Comfort Air — your trusted HVAC partner in Winder — understands the urgency of furnace failure, and we’d like to get it fixed as soon as possible. We’re here to shed light on these heating challenges and help you get it taken care of.
Common Reasons Why Your Furnace Won’t Start
If your heat is not working but the AC is, that could suggest one of several potential problems affecting your furnace. Because furnaces are complex machines, finding the cause of an issue isn’t always simple — but it’s not impossible.
Your Thermostat Isn’t Working
The first step in troubleshooting a furnace is to check the thermostat. It might seem obvious, but ensuring it’s set to “heat” and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature is essential. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as the thermostat being set to “cool” or “off.”
A dead battery or faulty wiring can also prevent your unit from kicking on. Regularly replacing the thermostat’s battery and checking for loose wires is another necessary step.
Power Supply Problems
Your furnace requires electricity to operate, even if it’s gas-powered. A tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse could be the culprit. Check your home’s electrical panel to ensure everything is in order.
Modern furnaces often come equipped with safety switches that automatically shut down the unit if a door is open. Ensure all furnace doors are securely closed.
Air Filter Is Dirty
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the unit to overheat and shut down. Regularly replacing your system’s air filter can prevent this common issue.
We recommend changing your air filter at least once every two to three months, but you’ll need to do so more frequently during months of high usage.
Restricted Airflow
Sometimes you’ll find that some rooms are being heated while others aren’t. This is often due to something obstructing your airflow. Be sure to check vents and ducts for any blocks and damage.
Mechanical Failure
Over time, components of your heater wear out and may fail to operate efficiently. For instance, your pilot light or furnace ignitor might be defective. Poorly maintained components will die out quicker, so regular maintenance is paramount.
If you suspect mechanical failure, you may benefit from a professional inspection to locate and fix your furnace problem.
How To Reduce The Risk Of Furnace Problems
Preventative maintenance is key to ensuring your heater operates smoothly throughout the colder months. Here are some tips to protect your home from the woes of furnace failure:
- Schedule annual inspections with Absolute Comfort Air to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
- Change your unit’s air filter every few months, or more frequently if you have pets or suffer from allergies.
- Ensure all vents and air returns are free from obstructions to maintain proper airflow.
- Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for more accurate temperature control and to identify potential furnace issues early.
Your furnace may not be invincible, but it can be a lot more resilient with proper maintenance. By being vigilant and getting mechanical issues fixed early, you’ll save money and keep your unit in good condition for years to come.
Get Furnace Problems Fixed In Winder
When your heater is not working properly and troubleshooting a furnace doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call in the experts. Absolute Comfort Air is here to provide professional, reliable furnace repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all year long.
Don’t let furnace troubles wear you down, contact us today for all your HVAC needs!
