Hey there! It’s the team at Powell Heating and Cooling in Lafayette, IN, here to help you stay warm and cozy. We know how frustrating it can be when your furnace decides to take a break right when you need it most. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back with this comprehensive guide to troubleshooting furnace problems. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in!

Preliminary Checks Before Troubleshooting

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s start with a few simple checks to see if your furnace is actually on the fritz.

• Listen for Normal Operation Sounds: When your furnace kicks on, it should make a few familiar sounds—the blower fan humming and a gentle whoosh as the burners ignite. If your furnace is as silent as a winter night, something’s definitely up.
• Check Thermostat Settings: It might sound basic, but make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and cranked up higher than the current room temperature. Sometimes, a little tweak here can save you a lot of hassle.
• Feel the Airflow: Stand in front of a vent and see if you feel warm air blowing out. If you’re met with a cold breeze or nothing at all, it’s time to investigate further.
• Documenting Your Checks: Jot down what you’ve checked so far—this info will be super helpful if you need to call us in for backup!

Common Causes of Furnace Issues

Alright, now that we’ve ruled out the basics, let’s get into some of the most common reasons your furnace might not be working.

• Thermostat Troubles

Your thermostat is like the brain of your heating system. If it’s not working right, your furnace might not get the memo to turn on. Start by checking the batteries and settings. If it’s still acting up, you might need a new thermostat.

• Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

Dust and pet hair have a way of sneaking into your air filters, and when they do, they can block airflow and cause your furnace to overheat. Be sure to replace or clean your filters every 1-3 months to keep things running smoothly.

• Ignition or Pilot Light Issues

If your furnace uses a pilot light or electronic ignition, problems here can stop your furnace from firing up. Make sure the pilot light is lit, or if you have an electronic ignition, check for any error codes in your furnace manual.

• Lack of Fuel Supply

No fuel, no heat—it’s as simple as that. For gas furnaces, double-check that the gas valve is open. If you suspect a gas supply issue, it’s best to call in a pro right away.

• Dead Blower Capacitor

The blower capacitor is like the starter for your furnace. If it’s dead, your blower won’t work, which means no heat. If this is the culprit, it’s a quick fix for an HVAC technician.

• Dirty or Faulty Flame Sensor

The flame sensor makes sure your furnace stays lit. If it’s dirty or faulty, your furnace might shut down. You can carefully clean it yourself, but if you’re not comfortable, we’re just a call away.

• Burnt Out Draft Inducer Motor

The draft inducer motor helps vent gasses out of your furnace. If it gets clogged or burns out, your furnace might shut down as a safety precaution. Regular maintenance can prevent this from happening.

• Blower Motor Problems

A blower motor on the fritz can mean poor airflow and uneven heating. If you suspect an issue, it might need a little TLC—or a replacement.

• Blocked Vents or Ductwork

If your vents or ductwork are blocked, your furnace can’t do its job properly. Regularly check and clean these areas to keep the air flowing freely.

• Electrical Issues

Sometimes it’s as simple as a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker. Check your electrical panel and reset any breakers if needed.

• Overheating and Safety Shutoffs

If your furnace is overheating, it might shut down to protect itself. Keep your vents and ducts clear to ensure proper airflow, and call a pro if the problem persists.

• Aging Furnace and Wear and Tear

If your furnace is getting up there in years, it might just be showing signs of old age. Older furnaces can start to wear out, leading to all sorts of issues. If your furnace is acting up more and more, it might be time to consider an upgrade.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, even the best DIY efforts aren’t enough. If you’ve gone through all the steps and your furnace still isn’t working, it’s time to call in the experts. We’re here to help diagnose and fix the problem. Professional help ensures your furnace is repaired safely and efficiently, keeping your home warm and cozy.

Furnace Giving You Trouble? Trust the Experts at Powell Heating and Cooling!

We hope this guide has helped you understand the common issues that can cause your furnace to stop working and what you can do to fix them. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your furnace running smoothly, but if you ever need help, Powell Heating and Cooling is just a phone call away. Stay warm, Lafayette!

For more helpful tips and information, be sure to check out our other blogs. We’ve got plenty of great advice to keep your home comfortable all year round!