3 Important Troubleshooting Tips for Problematic Heating Systems
If something’s wrong with your furnace, you’ll be glad to know some troubleshooting basics. While various problems can occur with such complex machinery, it’s best to start with three common areas. By inspecting the thermostat, filter and ignition system, you can spot the problem and fix it yourself without needing to call a professional for assistance.
Check the Thermostat
First make sure it’s set to “heat” and that the thermostat setting is higher than the current indoor temperature. If everything checks out, but the heat still fails to come on, make sure the thermostat is receiving power. You can do this by visiting the circuit breaker box and resetting any tripped breakers. If you have a battery-powered thermostat, change the batteries and try again.
Change the Filter
A dirty filter could be restricting airflow, causing your furnace to overheat and shutdown. You should locate the air filter and inspect it for debris buildup. If it looks dirty, replace the filter with one of the proper size and efficiency. Repeat this process every month and change the filter when it looks dirty. Make sure you wait no longer than three months between making a replacement.
Reset the Igniter or Pilot Light
Central heating systems operating on natural gas or propane feature either an igniter or pilot light. After following the first two troubleshooting heating system tips, it’s time to try resetting the ignition system. To do this, shut off the gas reset valve inside the furnace. Wait five minutes, and then turn the valve back on.
This should reset the igniter or pilot light. If not, it’s time to call a professional. With these troubleshooting tips, you can avoid a service call. Still, regular inspections from a professional may prevent these problems from ever developing, so don’t forget to schedule an annual maintenance check with an HVAC professional.
At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.
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