24 Jan Furnace on the Fritz? 5 DIY Tips to Troubleshoot Furnace Problems

It’s bad enough when it’s cold outside, but having a cold home can make winter even harder to handle. Before you worry about replacing your entire heating system, check these common things that can cause your furnace to stop working. Unless your system is older and has been acting up, there’s a chance it’s not really broken. As long as you don’t smell gas or smoke—which ALWAYS require professional service—start with these five tips to troubleshoot furnace problems yourself. If you still don’t have heat, then it’s time to call the HVAC experts at Cliff Bergin & Associates for a fast fix.

1. Game “on”—it’s more common than you might think, but one switch in the wrong position makes all the difference between cold and cozy. Check that the furnace switch itself and electrical breakers are on.
2. Check your ‘stat—thermostat, that is. Make sure it’s set to “heat” and that the setting is at least five degrees higher than the current indoor temperature to try to get the furnace to kick in. For programmable controls, make sure the day and time are correct for scheduled heating. If power has been lost, the thermostat may need to be reprogrammed. In addition, if your thermostat utilizes batteries, check them and replace if needed.
3. Change your filter— Check to make sure your filter is clean. A dirty filter may cause the unit to shut down, so replace it and restart your furnace.
4. Shut the front door—if the door on the front of your furnace isn’t closed properly, there’s a safety feature that prevents the blower motor from running.
5. Go with the flow—condensation is normal but check to verify that your drain hose is clear and unobstructed.

Still No Heat? Call in the Experts

Hopefully you can save some money by solving simple furnace problems yourself, but if you need help, we’ll still be here to troubleshoot furnace problems and keep costs down with honest advice and fair prices. The trained technicians at Cliff Bergin are available around the clock for emergencies to help you stay warm in winter and cool in summer. We also have licensed plumbers who can repair leaks, replace faucets, or install water softeners or well pumps. For services that keep you comfortable in Ozaukee County, choose the HVAC company that calls Mequon home—Carrier® authorized Cliff Bergin & Associates.