It is the middle of winter and your furnace just stopped working. Before you panic and call for emergency service, try these 5 quick checks. You might save yourself $150 or more.
1. Check the Thermostat
Make sure the thermostat is set to HEAT and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. Also check the batteries. A dead thermostat battery is one of the most common “furnace problems.”
2. Check the Air Filter
A clogged air filter can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety measure. Pull out the filter and hold it up to a light. If you cannot see through it, replace it. This should be done every 1-3 months anyway.
3. Check the Circuit Breaker
Furnaces have their own dedicated circuit breaker. Go to your breaker panel and look for a tripped breaker. If you find one, flip it all the way off and then back on.
4. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition
Older furnaces have a pilot light that can go out. Newer ones have electronic ignition. If you have a pilot light, follow the instructions on the furnace label to relight it. If you have electronic ignition, try turning the furnace off and back on to reset it.
5. Check the Gas Valve
Make sure the gas valve to the furnace is open. The handle should be parallel to the pipe. If it is perpendicular, the gas is off.
When to Call a Pro
If none of these fixes work, or if you smell gas, call a licensed HVAC technician immediately. Do not keep trying to troubleshoot if you smell gas. Leave the house and call your gas company.