4 Common Furnace Problems & How to Troubleshoot Them

Solutions to Common Furnace Problems

When a cold spell hits, furnace problems may arise. With routine maintenance, it's possible to avoid many potential issues; however, sometimes things happen. Should your furnace malfunction, don't panic just yet! Here are some of the most common furnace problems and how to troubleshoot them. Should these tips and tricks fail to do the job, or if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call a licensed professional, especially if you are unfamiliar with how a furnace works.

Is your thermostat on?

We understand how frustrating it is to not have heat. Here's the good news, though: nearly 25 percent of all service calls are easy fixes. Before you schedule an appointment, inspect your thermostat to see if the toggle has been switched to "heat."

Here are some other things you can check:

• What's the temperature setting?
• Turn the current temperature up by five degrees to see if the heat kicks on.
• Replace the thermostat's batteries.
• Open the thermostat and gently blow to rid dirt and dust.
• Are there any loose wires?
• If the program settings aren't working properly, alter the temperature by pressing up or down on the control. Then, press the hold button.

Check your electrical panel and shut-off switches.

Often, a furnace just needs to be turned on. Near your furnace, there should be a wall switch. If it's turned off, flip the switch. If that's not the cause for concern, check the circuit breakers in your electrical panel.

Have you changed the filter recently?

A dirty air filter can cause numerous problems. When dirt and dust accumulate, it limits airflow and shortens the lifespan of your system, not to mention it can dramatically hurt your indoor air quality. Further, it can overwork your system, causing it to shut off. If the blower is running, but you can't feel any heat coming out, replace your air filter.

The frequency at which you should change your filter will depend on your system, however, a common time-frame is every 30 to90 days. You should inspect your filter every month, as you may accumulate more dirt and dust than other homes due to pets, children, and habits.

Make sure to put the cover back on correctly after replacing your filter!

Is Your Pilot Light Out?

If you have an older furnace, it's possible that the pilot isn't turned on. Watch this easy tutorial to learn how to turn it on.