5 Signs of a Furnace Not Working
Being able to recognize the signs of a furnace not working is the first step to fixing the problem quickly. Here are some of the most common signs that might mean your furnace is not working properly:
- Lack of heat coming from the vents
- Peculiar noises emanating from the furnace itself
- More frequent cycling on and off
- Higher energy bills than usual
- Disproportionate heating within your home
If you see any of the above signs, then your furnace is likely failing to operate as expected. Being aware of the normal temperature and comfort levels of your home as well as being aware of the normal noises your heating system makes, will help you identify when there is an issue with your furnace not working. An inefficient running furnace will impact comfort while energy costs are driven upward.
How to When Your Furnace Isn’t Operating
If you discover your furnace not working, there is no need to panic. Before you call a professional HVAC technician, you can check a common issues with furances. Checking these simple items can lead you to an at home fix or most importantly give you insight on what to tell the HVAC technician when you call for emergency services.
- Check the thermostat: Ensure that it is set to “heat” and that the temperature is turned up enough from the current temperature of the room.
- Look at the air filter: It might be clogged. This could cut off airflow, causing the system to shut down. Change it if it’s dirty.
- Check circuit breaker: Check to see if your furnace’s circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Check the pilot light: For older furnaces, check the pilot light to make sure it is lit. If not, turn it on according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the gas supply: Check to see if the gas valve to your furnace is open.
If the above steps fail to get your furnace up and running, or you are not able to check these items yourself then your next step is to call a professional HVAC technician.
Remember: Attempting more technical or complex repairs on your own can lead to damage to your furnace as well as void any warranties that your system may have.
Steps to Take When Your Furnace Is Not Working in Cold Weather
Now, when this happens with your furnace and the weather is cold, it becomes an urgent matter. While you await the help of professionals to get back to a safe and warm temperature, here’s what you can do: Isolate unused rooms: Close the doors of rooms that you are not occupying to preserve the heat in the other occupied places. Use supplementary heating: Make use of space heaters, fireplaces, or electric blankets safely.
Dress in layers: Wear warm clothing and use extra blankets to retain body heat.
Frozen pipes: Let cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water is less likely to freeze than standing water.
Call in an emergency HVAC service: Search for a company that will offer 24/7 emergency furnace repair.
Remember, safety first is always the rule of thumb whenever you’re dealing with a furnace that isn’t functioning during cold weather. Never use outdoor heating equipment indoors; it can give you carbon monoxide poisoning.
Don’t Let a Furnace Not Working Leave You in the Cold
A problem with the furnace can quickly go from an inconvenience to an absolute emergency, particularly when winter hits. Catching the first signs and taking action can help minimize discomfort and damage to your home. Since so many furnace issues can be avoided with regular maintenance, consider calling a professional HVAC technician for annual service.
Whether it’s a cold day in January or any other time of the year, if you happen to come across an issue with your furnace, look no further than Berks Energy Heating and Cooling. Our experienced and qualified technicians are on hand, ready to repair whatever problem your furnace might be experiencing. The key to dealing with a furnace not working properly is speedy action combined with professional support.
Call us to learn more about our furnace repair service with Berks Energy Heating & Cooling and schedule yours today!
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