Here is our step-by-step guide to help you check if your furnace is working:
- Ensure Thermostat is turned up.
- Inspect lower door panel on exterior of furnace, can you see any flashing lights? If so, record number of flashes. ...
- Re-set furnace switch, usually located on roof above furnace.
- Main inducer fan should come on first.
- Igniter area should start to glow in after 20-30 seconds.
- Burners should light.
- After about 30 seconds blower should start running.
Why is my furnace not kicking on?
What Would Cause a Furnace not to Kick ON?
- Thermostat issues. If your furnace isn’t responding to temperature changes, the most likely culprit is the thermostat.
- Ignition issues. If the thermostat is in good working condition, then the next thing you want to check is the ignition system.
- Gas supply issues. ...
- Electrical issues. ...
What furnace is the best?
The Best Furnace Brands of 2022
- Lennox. Known for: Lennox furnaces offer a wide range of options, including noise-reducing features with variable blower motors.
- Trane. Known for: Trane gas furnaces have been around since the late 1800s, and the company is well known as one of the industry’s top heating and cooling specialists.
- Goodman. ...
- American Standard. ...
- Amana. ...
- Bryant. ...
- Carrier. ...
- Rheem. ...
Why does my furnace keep Tripping the reset button?
Why does my gas furnace keep tripping the reset button? If a furnace isn’t receiving enough airflow, it may overheat and trigger the reset button to trip. Make sure to clean or replace the air filters and keep the air vents open enough for proper airflow.
Do I really need yearly furnace maintenance?
The same logic is applicable for a yearly tune-up of your gas furnace. A yearly HVAC or furnace checkup is going to identify current minor issues and save you from future complications and additional repair costs. For most people, opting for an annual furnace checkup should suffice.
How do you know if the furnace is not working?
There's a power disconnect switch by the furnace, even gas systems use electricity. Check the fuse/circuit breaker at the electrical panel for the furnace to make sure the breaker has not tripped. Make sure the power switch next to the furnace is in the “On” “position.
Should you be able to hear your furnace running?
A low hum is normal while the furnace runs, but if the noise is loud during a cycle or comes on when it wasn't present before, there could be an issue with the fan or capacitor.
What does a normal furnace sound like?
Normal Furnace Sounds Chirp – Chirping sounds are fairly common. It's usually the natural noise of the mechanisms. Rattle – Rattling noises usually happen when the system is cooling down and it's not generally cause for alarm. Hum – This is usually a sound that happens when the furnace burner lights.
How much noise should a furnace make?
Furnaces generally aren't noisy, and most modern furnaces are designed for noise reduction. A properly functioning furnace shouldn't make too much noise, especially after initially starting. One that is generally needs repairs, and the type of sound you're hearing can help determine the exact issue with the system.
How often should my furnace run in winter?
On average, furnaces should kick on and turn off anywhere from three to eight times per hour. However, if your furnace turns on and off more frequently, don't assume the furnace is short cycling just yet.
Why is my furnace running when thermostat is off?
The most common blower problem that makes your furnace run non-stop is a faulty limit switch. A limit switch is the part of your furnace that tells your system when to turn on and off. If it's broken, your furnace won't know when to shut off and will continue to run.
How often should your furnace kick on?
3-8 times per hourOn average, furnaces should kick on and off anywhere from 3-8 times per hour. However, if your furnace does so more frequently, don't assume it's short cycling just yet.
How long should a furnace run before shutting off?
Running 10 to 15 minutes per cycle seems acceptable. So is running as long as 20 minutes. Even running every seven or eight minutes may not be a problem, as other factors could lead to more frequent cycling. Outside temperature, for example, could contribute to how fast or slow the furnace cycles.
Why won't my furnace stay on?
If your furnace won’t stay lit or won’t stay on, this can be an indication that your heating system needs attention. A furnace repair may be needed to replace wiring that has become faulty, replace the malfunctioning thermostat wire, blower fan, condensate pan, or another component in the heating system. If your boiler or furnace keeps going out, that’s a sign it’s time to invest in a new heating system.
Why is my furnace not heating?
If you are noticing some rooms in your house are colder than others or that your heating system is just not doing its job, it’s likely that your furnace is not heating enough to keep your house warm anymore. Aging boilers and furnaces lose their capacity to heat your home effectively. Although a repair can provide a temporary solution, installing a new heating system that’s properly sized for your home’s heating needs is the best option.
What does a gas furnace flame look like?
On gas heating systems the burner flame should be a bright blue color. A furnace warning sign is a flickering or yellowish looking flame. This is an indication that the gas is not burning completely. It is also an indicator that your heating system may be producing a higher than normal level of carbon monoxide. Other carbon monoxide warning signs are:
What is the sound of a furnace?
Another furnace warning sign is strange noises. You should start to get concerned if your furnace or boiler is starting to make strange sounds such as squeaking, banging, rattling, hissing, clicking, popping or other strange noises. Another furnace noise to never ignore is the constant running of your furnace blower fan. Increasing these types of noises is generally an indicator that your heating system will need to be replaced.
How long does a furnace last?
The typical lifespan for furnaces that have been properly installed and maintained is approximately 12 to 15 years. Older heating systems will start needing more frequent repairs. Additionally, the efficiency of all or heating systems will decrease. If your heating system is beginning to need replacement parts and repairs, it is probably a good idea to start thinking about a replacement.
Why is my gas bill increasing?
As we all know, gas, propane and oil prices fluctuate month to month and day today (which is why we offer price protection for heating oil in NY, NJ, and PA). The second factor that could cause an increase in annual heating expenses is a decrease in the efficiency of your heating system. Heating systems begin to lose efficiencies as they age. Instead of piling on blankets, a way to reduce heating costs could be scheduling a furnace replacement to upgrade to a more efficient system.
Can you replace a furnace in Pennsylvania?
Replacing a heating system in the middle of a cold northeastern Pennsylvania, southern New York, or north Jersey winter is no fun at all. Also, the cost to replace the heating system in an emergency situation may be higher than a well-planned furnace replacement. Asking yourself the questions in this guide will help you decide to schedule any needed furnace repairs or plan for the best time to replace your furnace or boiler. Hopefully this will help you avoid “furnace not working” problems!
What does it mean when your furnace is burning other colors?
At the very least, flames of other colors mean that your furnace isn't operating as efficiently as it should.
Why does my furnace make a whooshing noise?
Has your furnace started making strange noises lately? An obvious whooshing sound when your heating unit fires up can indicate that it's burning too rich and is in need of a tuneup. Not only does this create extra wear and tear, it also wastes gas. Getting this problem taken care of can often make a noticeable difference in your heating bill.
What happens if your furnace costs increase?
If you begin to notice a marked increase in annual heating costs over several heating seasons, your furnace may have lost some of its efficiency. This is another one of those times when you should call a heating and cooling specialist and discuss your concerns.
Why does my furnace fan feel cold?
Is your fan set to ON? This will constantly circulate air throughout the home, even when the furnace isn't currently running. This can make it feel like the furnace is blowing cold air.
What does it mean when there is a difference in temperature in a room?
If there are differences in temperature between rooms or areas of your home, it may indicate that there is a problem with your ductwork that needs to be addressed.
Why does my heater make a squealing sound?
If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound when your heater starts up, it can be an indicator of a problem with the bearings in your blower motor. This is something that should be taken care of quickly, as it can cause your motor to freeze up. Frozen motor = frozen house! An overheated blower can also become a fire hazard if not dealt with promptly.
Why is it important to check if gas is leaking?
A gas leak will effect the efficient operation of your gas furnace. But more importantly, it can be a very serious health hazard to you and your family. Gas leak detecting equipment can help track down the location of gas leaks so they can be repaired quickly and efficiently.
Why does my furnace make a noise?
In general, most furnaces make some noise during operation. But if your furnace cycle is accompanied by an increasing amount of shake, rattle, and roll, it could be a sign that some of the mechanical elements are coming lose. In that case, a tune-up is advisable. And if the sounds stop abruptly, creating especially noticeable periods of silence, your furnace may be giving you a warning that there are bigger problems lurking. If you’re hearing more odd sounds around your house, here’s how to eliminate them forever.
What does it mean when your furnace isn't heating?
That in turn means your furnace isn’t heating to its potential, and that the carbon monoxide (CO) produced by your furnace may not be vented properly. Make sure to monitor your home’s CO level by installing a carbon monoxide detector and testing it regularly. 6 / 13. Family Handyman.
What does it mean when your furnace leaks water?
But what many homeowners don’t understand is that water is a natural byproduct of a gas furnace or air conditioner at work. Your first step should be to determine where the water is coming from.
Why does my furnace keep cycling on and off?
Start and Stop. If your furnace is cycling on and off, it’s because something in the system is causing it to cut off before it can complete a full heating cycle.
How long does it take for a furnace to top out?
Furnaces usually top out after around 20 years of service. If your furnace is old enough to drive, you may want to consider installing a new unit. The new furnace will be significantly more energy efficient, and replacing it on your own schedule is far less stressful than doing an emergency fix in the middle of winter.
How to tell if a furnace has animal droppings?
If you see signs such as nest material or animal droppings around your furnace, perform a full system examination and look for signs of chewed wires or clogs in the vents. The same goes for animal activity on the roof, especially around vent hoods. Sometimes animal activity isn’t visible, but is evident to anyone with a nose.
What are the symptoms of a haunted house?
(For a great explanation of this phenomena, listen to this episode of This American Life .) Other signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include nausea, headaches, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms.
Why is my furnace in cooling mode?
This is because the cooler air naturally sinks downward, and the warm air rises in the rooms. It's then easier for the HVAC system to pull the warmer air up and out of the rooms and push the cooler, air-conditioned air back down into the rooms.
Where is the furnace located in my home?
Furnaces located in an attic or upper story are most likely downflow furnaces. When it's located in the basement or crawlspace of the home, you likely have an upflow furnace.
How does an upflow furnace work?
In an upflow furnace, air comes into the furnace from the bottom. It gets heated and then flows upward into the home's ductwork. In a downflow furnace, the air flows in the opposite direction. It enters the furnace from above and flows down into the home.
What is the most efficient furnace?
Energy efficient for heating: Upflow furnaces work with the natural flow of heat going upwards rather than working against it. For this reason, they are the most efficient systems for any homes located in colder climates or areas that have longer seasons where heating is necessary.
Why is an upflow furnace so efficient?
This is because heat naturally rises, and this system takes advantage of this natural heat flow.
What is the difference between an upflow furnace and a downflow furnace?
The main distinction between upflow and downflow furnaces is the direction of the airflow in the furnace. In a downflow furnace, air is warmed as it flow s down through the unit and the home's ductwork. This type of furnace is generally placed in an attic or the highest level of a home if there is no attic. Placing the furnace in the attic or upper level gives greater versatility to homes without basements. However, the downward flow of air goes counter to how heat naturally rises, so they are somewhat less energy efficient for heating than upflow furnaces.
What direction should the air filter be when changing out?
When you're changing the filters, you need to make sure the arrow points toward the furnace and away from the return air ducts.
