When winter’s chill sets in, your furnace becomes one of the most important appliances in your home. But what happens when you crank up the thermostat, and instead of a wave of warmth, you are met with only the winter chill? A furnace that is not producing heat can be more than just an inconvenience, it can turn your home into an ice box. Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning will share the common reasons why your furnace might be failing to provide heat and what you can do about it.
Thermostat Issues
The thermostat is the command center of your heating system. If it is not working correctly, your furnace will not know when to kick on. The possible problems could be an incorrect setting, dead batteries, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Check that the thermostat is set to “heat” mode and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. Replace the batteries if it is battery-operated.
Dirty Air Filters
A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the furnace, which can prevent it from heating effectively. Make sure to regularly replace or clean the air filters to ensure proper airflow.
Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
For gas furnaces, issues with the pilot light or ignition system can prevent the furnace from producing heat. This may be due to a blown-out pilot light or a faulty ignition system. Check the pilot light, and if it is out, try relighting it following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have an electronic ignition system and it is not working, you may need to call a professional.
Fuel Supply Issues
If your furnace doesn’t have the fuel it needs, it won’t be able to produce heat. For gas furnaces, this could be due to a gas leak or a problem with the gas line. For oil furnaces, you might be out of oil. Check your fuel levels. If you suspect a gas leak, shut off the gas supply and call a professional immediately.
Overheating Furnace
Furnaces can overheat due to various issues, which often triggers a safety device that shuts off the furnace to prevent damage. Overheating can be caused by restricted airflow due to dirty filters or blocked vents, mechanical failures, or issues with the furnace’s internal controls. Start by checking for and removing any blockages in vents and registers. You might need a professional to inspect for more complex issues.
Furnace Blower Motor Problems
The blower motor circulates heated air through your home. If it is not working, the furnace might be producing heat that’s not being distributed. These problems can be due to motor failure, belt issues, or electrical problems. Listen for humming sounds from the blower motor or check if air is coming out of the vents. If not, the blower motor may need repair or replacement.
Faulty Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is crucial for heating the air. If it is damaged, it can greatly reduce the furnace’s ability to heat your home. A crack or damage to the heat exchanger often results in failure. This is a serious issue that can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. Turn off your furnace and call a professional.
Central Furnace Heating Diagnosis, Repair, Replacement, Maintenance & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Centennial, Enterprise, Lone Mountain Village, Paradise, Sunrise Manor, Spring Valley, Aliante, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Peccole Ranch, Silverado Ranch, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
While some problems can be resolved with simple checks and fixes, others require professional aid. Regular maintenance is key to preventing many of these issues and ensuring that your furnace keeps you warm all winter long. When you need furnace or other HVAC services, contact Air Supply Heating & Air Conditioning today.