Why Won’t My Furnace Turn On?

A warm, comfortable home is essential during the colder months, and having your furnace malfunction can be a real inconvenience. If you’re facing the frustrating issue of a furnace that won’t turn on, rest assured that Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling is here to help. We’ve compiled a list of common furnace problems and the expert solutions we offer to ensure your heating system is back in working order promptly.

1. When the Furnace Thermostat Won’t Turn On

Check the Electrical Panel: One of the first things to investigate is your electrical panel. Ensure that the circuit breaker for your furnace is in the “on” position. Sometimes, a simple power reset can work wonders.

Check the Batteries: If your thermostat is battery-powered, low or dead batteries can cause it to malfunction. Replace the batteries and see if that does the trick.

Check the Thermostat Position: Ensure your thermostat is set to “heat” mode and the temperature setting is above the current room temperature. If it’s set too low, the furnace won’t kick in.

2. When the Furnace Doesn’t Blow Warm Air

Check the Filter: A clogged or dirty air filter can obstruct airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and potentially overheat. Replace the filter regularly, typically every one to three months, to ensure proper air circulation.

3. When the Furnace Won’t Ignite

Check the Ignition Sensor: Modern furnaces often have ignition sensors that ensure safe and efficient operation. If this sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it might prevent your furnace from igniting. Gently clean the sensor or consult your furnace’s manual for guidance on sensor maintenance.

Inspect the Pilot Light: The pilot light is essential for older gas furnaces for ignition. If it’s out, your furnace won’t start. Follow your furnace’s instructions to relight the pilot, but exercise caution, and if you’re unsure, call a professional.

4. When There’s No Fuel Supply

Check the Gas Supply: Ensure the valve is open if your furnace is gas-powered. Gas flow interruptions can result from various factors, such as recent maintenance or repairs. If you suspect a gas supply issue, contact a qualified technician to investigate further.

5. When the Blower Motor Is Faulty

Listen for Unusual Noises: Noises like squeaks or grinding sounds could indicate a malfunctioning blower motor. A faulty motor can disrupt the airflow and cause your furnace to shut down. In this case, it’s best to contact a professional to assess and repair the motor.

6. When the High-Limit Switch Is Tripped

Check for Overheating: The high-limit switch is a safety feature that shuts off your furnace if it overheats. Inspect your furnace for any obstructions, like furniture or debris, blocking airflow around it. Also, ensure all vents and registers are open and unblocked to prevent overheating.

Guide for Non-working Furnace.

Hillside provides a comprehensive guide to help you diagnose and potentially repair your furnace, ensuring your home remains comfortable and safe throughout the colder months. Remember, whenever you need expert assistance, you can count on us at Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling to provide timely and efficient service.

1. When the Thermostat Won’t Power Up

Hillside Expert Solution – Thorough Inspection: Our experienced technicians meticulously examine your thermostat. We check for hardwired and battery-powered power sources and ensure all connections are secure. We replace batteries or reset circuit breakers to restore power and functionality if needed.

2. When the Thermostat Settings Are Incorrect

Hillside Expert Solution – Precise Calibration: Incorrect thermostat settings can lead to heating issues. Our experts verify that your thermostat displays the correct date, time, and heating mode (HEAT). We also ensure that the temperature setting is above the current room temperature, guaranteeing that your furnace operates as expected.

3. When the Furnace Doesn’t Power On

Hillside Expert Solution – Electrical System Check: Furnaces require a power source. We inspect your electrical system, including breaker boxes and power switches. If we find tripped breakers or switches, we reset them. We also examine internal fuses, replacing them if necessary, to restore your furnace’s electrical amperage.

4. When Furnace Access Panels Are Open

Hillside Expert Solution – Secure Panel Placement: To prevent accidents, most furnaces feature a safety mechanism that disables the system if access panels are open or improperly secured. Our professionals inspect your furnace for missing screws, loose panels, or open access points. We ensure that all panels are securely in place.

5. When the Furnace Doesn’t Ignite

Hillside Expert Solution – Ignition Diagnosis and Maintenance: If your furnace turns on but doesn’t produce warm air, it may indicate an ignition problem. Hillside’s technicians can handle both pilot light and electronic ignition systems. We relight pilot lights, clean electronic ignitions, and replace components as needed, ensuring your furnace ignites and generates heat reliably.

6. When Furnace Short-Cycling Occurs

Hillside Expert Solution – Addressing Short-Cycling Causes: Short cycling, where your furnace turns on and off rapidly, may result from airflow issues or internal dirt buildup. Our experts investigate and address potential causes such as clogged air filters or dirty flame sensors. Regular maintenance by Hillside can prevent short-cycling and keep your furnace running smoothly.

When to Call for Professional Repair

Remember that Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling is always at your service. If you encounter furnace issues that you’re unsure about or the troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the problem, don’t hesitate to contact our professional HVAC team. We’re available around the clock and committed to keeping you safe and comfortable by providing efficient and proactive repairs. Your home’s warmth and comfort are our top priorities.

Conclusion: A malfunctioning furnace can be a significant inconvenience, but with Hillside Oil Heating & Cooling, you’re never alone in addressing heating problems. Our experts are here to assist you in diagnosing and resolving furnace issues, ensuring your home remains warm and cozy throughout the winter. Trust our dedicated team for dependable, efficient, and proactive furnace care.