When you live in a place with severe winters like Lake County, a furnace that won’t produce heat is more than just an inconvenience. It’s a serious problem that demands immediate attention. Here are some of the most common reasons why a heater stops working and how to resolve them.
Check the Settings
Whether by a bump of the elbow or a spurt of energetic dusting, it’s easy to inadvertently alter the settings on your thermostat or heater without knowing it. Reset the thermostat, and then wait a couple of minutes for the system to start up:
- Make sure that the switch on the thermostat is set to “Heat.”
- Turn the fan setting on the thermostat from “Auto” to “On.”
- Check the power switch located on or near the heater to ensure it’s in the “On” position.
- Inspect your circuit breaker to verify that your heater is getting electrical power.
More Diagnostic Tips
A simple filter change may get your heater up and running again. Some heating systems are designed to shut down when a dirty filter clogs the airflow. If you have older equipment with a gas pilot, check the ignition to ensure the flame hasn’t blown out.
Repair or Replace?
Depending on the cause of a breakdown, a timely furnace repair can save you from the cost of a replacement. There are times, however, when upgrading to a high efficiency furnace is the best option. The Environmental Protection Agency offers a simple checklist that can help you determine if it’s more cost-effective to repair or replace your system.
At Herchenbach Mechanical, our experienced technicians are not only experts at furnace repair but are adept at addressing any underlying issues as well. To learn more about HVAC solutions that can improve your comfort and help you avoid future repairs, explore our heating system services or call us today at (847) 260-9335.
