How To Troubleshoot a Furnace
During winter, one can enjoy spending time indoors if the furnace is working optimally. And similar to other appliances, furnaces also require routine maintenance and regular upkeep. An HVAC technician should clean the furnace at least once a year to ensure everything is running smoothly as expected.
So, if you are yet to schedule routine maintenance and your furnace isn’t working optimally – then you should try these troubleshooting tips.
Troubleshooting your furnace
Basically, troubleshooting the furnace is all about reviewing a few things, like ensuring the thermostat works properly. But if the issues are complicated, then you can contact an HVAC technician to perform thorough inspection. Try this simple review at home before you contact a professional.
1.Ensure the thermostat has been set properly
Check if the thermostat has been set on ‘’heat’’ and ensure the temperature has been set accordingly. Maybe someone in your household turned off the thermostat by accidentally flipping the switch. After you confirm the thermostat is set properly, switch it on and check whether there’s a difference.
2. Replace the furnace filter
Worn out and dry filters can affect the quality of air that gets into your home. In fact, dirty filters can switch off the furnace to prevent overeating. That said, furnace filters need to be replaced every month to ensure optimum air flow.
3. Change the thermostat batteries
Do you have a thermostat that is battery-powered? The first thing you need to do is to ensure the batteries are in good condition. When the batteries are faulty, the thermostat is unable to communicate effectively with the furnace. Consider replacing the batteries and check if that rectifies the problem.
4. Check fuel source
Be careful when checking the fuel source since propane or gas is involved. Check whether the valve has been turned off accidentally. If you suspect gas leakage, contact a technician to prevent further gas leaks, which can be disastrous.
Inspect the circuit breakers
Check if the fuse is working as expected. First locate the fuse box and look at the switch that is marked ‘’furnace.’’ But if you don’t spot such a marker, find the switch that is flipped on the opposite side to the others. Flip it back and check if it’s working.
Conclusion
If you try these troubleshooting tips but your furnace isn’t working optimally, then you should contact the local HVAC technician to do the necessary repairs.
Reference: HVAC.com, Service Champions, Central htg