My Furnace Won't Start: 5 Things to Check Before Calling for Emergency Service

Waking up to a cold house in Calgary is a stressful experience. Before you panic and call for an emergency repair, there are several simple things you can check on your own. Many times, a furnace that refuses to start is caused by a minor issue that does not require a professional technician. By following these five steps, you might be able to get your heat back on quickly and save yourself the cost of a service call.

1.     Check the Thermostat Settings

The first place to look is your thermostat. Ensure that the thermostat is set to the heat position and that the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature.

If the screen is blank, the batteries likely need to be replaced. Even if the screen is still visible, weak batteries can sometimes prevent the thermostat from sending a strong signal to the furnace. Try putting in a fresh set of batteries to see if that triggers the system to start.

2.     Verify Power to the Unit

Your furnace has its own power switch which often looks like a regular light switch located on the side of the unit or on a nearby wall. It is common for this switch to be accidentally flipped off by someone moving items in the mechanical room. Make sure it is in the on position.

You should also check your electrical panel. Locate the circuit breaker for the furnace and see if it has tripped to the middle position. If it has, flip it all the way to off and then back to on to reset the power.

3.     Inspect the Air Filter

A dirty air filter is one of the leading causes of furnace failure. When a filter is clogged with dust and pet dander, it restricts airflow. This causes the furnace to overheat, which triggers a safety limit switch that shuts the entire system down to prevent damage. If your furnace starts for a few minutes and then stops, or if it refuses to turn on at all, inspect the filter. If it looks grey or dark, replace it immediately.

4.     Clear the Exterior Vents

In Calgary, heavy snowfall and wind can cause problems for high efficiency furnaces. These units have plastic intake and exhaust pipes that lead outside your home. If snow or ice builds up around these pipes, the furnace will shut down to prevent dangerous gases from backing up into your house. Go outside and ensure that both pipes are clear of any obstructions. Even a small amount of frost or a stray leaf can be enough to stop the system from running safely during a cold snap.

5.     Confirm the Gas Supply

Finally, check the gas supply. While it is rare for the main gas line to be shut off, it can happen during home renovations or utility work. Locate the gas valve near your furnace and ensure the handle is parallel to the pipe. This indicates that it is open. If the handle is at a right angle to the pipe, the gas flow is blocked. If you have recently had work done on your gas lines, this is a common oversight that prevents the furnace from igniting.

Professional Help When You Need It

If you have gone through all five of these steps and your home is still cold, it is time to call in the experts at J&B Heating. Our team is ready to help Calgary homeowners get their systems back online safely. We offer transparent pricing, will diagnose the problem and provide a clear quote before any work begins. Do not shiver in the cold when professional help is just a phone call away.