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Is Your Furnace Not Turning On?

Is Your Furnace Not Turning On?

Here's What You Need to Check First

At Rhymes Heating & Cooling, we know how frustrating it is when your furnace isn't working, especially on a cold St. Louis day. Before calling a professional, try troubleshooting to identify the issue. If you're unsure or the problem continues, we're here to help. Let’s look at some common reasons your furnace might not be turning on.
 

Why Is My Furnace Not Turning On? Common Causes

There are several reasons why your furnace might not be turning on. Here are some of the most common culprits:

  • Thermostat Issues: Sometimes the problem isn’t with the furnace itself but with the thermostat. If the thermostat is not set properly, or if it's malfunctioning, it won’t signal the furnace to turn on. Make sure your thermostat is in heat mode and set to a higher temperature than the room’s current temperature.

  • Blown Fuse or Circuit Breaker: If the fuse is blown or the circuit breaker is tripped, your furnace won’t receive power. Check your electrical panel and ensure the furnace breaker is in the “ON” position.

  • Pilot Light Problems: For older furnaces with a pilot light, a blown-out flame can prevent the furnace from igniting. Check the pilot light to see if it’s still lit, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it if needed.

  • Gas Supply Issues: Make sure the gas valve to your furnace is open. If it's turned off, your furnace won’t get the gas it needs to generate heat.

  • Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down or not turn on at all. A quick check and replacement could do the trick.

  • Malfunctioning Furnace Parts: Sometimes, it’s not as simple as a dirty filter or thermostat. Issues with the furnace’s heat exchanger, ignition system, or blower motor can cause your furnace to stop working. These require professional repair.
     

Step-by-Step Furnace Troubleshooting

If your furnace isn’t turning on, here are a few simple steps to help you troubleshoot:

  • Check the Air Filter: If airflow is restricted by a clogged filter, replace it and see if the furnace kicks back on.

  • Inspect the Pilot Light: Make sure the pilot light is lit, or reset it if necessary.

  • Examine the Thermostat: Ensure it’s set to heat mode and is calling for heat. You might also want to change the batteries if it’s not indicating it’s powered on.

  • Check the Electrical Panel: Make sure the furnace’s circuit breaker is on and not tripped.

  • Verify Gas Supply: Ensure the gas valve is open and gas is flowing to your furnace.
     

Furnace Turns On But Won’t Blow Heat

If your furnace turns on but isn’t blowing warm air, it could be due to a dirty air filter or ignition sensor. Here's what you can do:

  • Check the Furnace Filter: A clogged filter can block airflow, so replace it if necessary.

  • Inspect the Ignition Sensor: A dirty or faulty ignition sensor could stop your furnace from igniting. Cleaning or replacing the sensor can help get it running again.
     

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, troubleshooting just isn’t enough, and the issue might be more complex than expected. If your furnace continues to malfunction or you notice signs of gas leaks, carbon monoxide risk, or damaged parts, it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician. At Rhymes Heating & Cooling, we can help with furnace inspections, repairs, and maintenance to ensure your system runs efficiently and safely.
 

Get Your Furnace Back on Track with Rhymes Heating & Cooling!

Furnace issues can be a hassle, but with a little effort, you may be able to pinpoint the problem and get your home feeling cozy again. However, if you’re unable to fix the issue yourself or if you’re unsure about any of the troubleshooting steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Rhymes Heating & Cooling. We’ve been serving St. Louis homeowners for years and are always here to help with any heating needs!

For more HVAC tips, check out our guides on AC Replacement and What to Do When Your AC Stops Blowing Cold Air. Rhymes Heating & Cooling is here to help with all your heating and cooling needs!