Everyone would undoubtedly agree that one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century is the furnace. No more building fires or trying to bundle under enough blankets to stay warm on a freezing winter night. With the invention of the furnace, staying warm and comfortable in our homes became as easy as flipping a switch. But sometimes something goes wrong, and nothing happens when you flip the switch. Sometimes the problem can be easily fixed, but other situations require the help of a professional HVAC specialist.
Common Reasons Your Furnace Isn’t Coming On
The Pilot Light Has Been Extinguished
One easy fix issue is a pilot light that has gone out. If this is the reason your furnace isn’t coming on, then you can correct the problem yourself by simply re-lighting the pilot flame. Use caution in doing so, of course. If the flame will not ignite or if re-lighting it does not correct the problem and your furnace still isn’t coming on, then the problem is more serious, and you will need to contact a licensed HVAC technician for help. The problem may be that your furnace needs a new pilot light component. These are fairly inexpensive and easy to replace. However, this type of repair work must be done by a professional. Do not attempt this kind of sensitive work on your own.
Your Thermostat May Be Damaged
One of the most common causes of a furnace failing to power on is a damaged thermostat. Older model thermostats contain a number of thin, delicate wires that are responsible for every function your system performs. These wires eventually become old and worn out. When this happens, it usually means you need a new thermostat. Since your existing thermostat was likely an older model, now is the perfect time to upgrade your HVAC system by installing a modern and more efficient programmable thermostat. The updated model will make it possible for you to control the settings even when you’re not at home. Save money and be environmentally conscious by turning back the temperature in your home during times when everyone will be out and at night when everyone will be warm in their beds. Increase the temperature settings for more heat when everyone is home. The settings are remotely controlled via a free app that can be downloaded on to your smartphone, laptop, tablet, or another device for convenience wherever you are. Programmable thermostats are more durable and effective than older models, extending the life of your HVAC system.
Gas Flow To The Furnace May Be Too Low
Some people try to save money and preserve their gas supply by cutting back on the amount of fuel they make available for their furnace to use. However, this is not a safe thing to do at all. It may save you a few dollars on your gas bill, and it may make your gas supply last longer, but insufficient gas flow will put undue strain on your furnace and can result in serious damage to your HVAC system/ A furnace without adequate gas flow is also a safety hazard to your home and family. Help your furnace to work safely and efficiently by always keeping the gas supply controls set to completely open or completely closed at all times.
Condensation May Be Causing Furnace Issues
There is a feature inside your furnace called a condensation pan. When the system’s reservoir collects the condensed water and becomes full, the excess water drains off into the condensation pan. Once the condensation pan gets full, your furnace will shut down, and the water will drain away. When this happens, your furnace will not restart. You will need to have your system inspected and repaired by a trained HVAC professional. The HVAC technician will find the reason for the overflow of the condensation pan and correct the problem right away.
There May Be Connectivity Issues
If your furnace isn’t coming on, it could be because of a poor electrical connection. Some part of your system has developed bad wiring. An HVAC technician will need to determine the extent of the damage do your system and make the necessary repairs. Do not attempt to repair this type of problem yourself; it can be extremely dangerous and must be handled only by a trained professional.
Still Need Help With Your Furnace?
At Centerville Heating & Cooling our certified, licensed HVAC technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to help keep your HVAC system working it’s best and to make sure that your furnace is performing correctly when it comes time to keep your home warm throughout the cold weather months. Give us a call at (937) 353-1169 or visit our web page at https://www.centervilleheatandcooling.com/appointments/ to schedule an appointment to have your system inspected and any repair work to be done right away.
