Furnace Not Igniting? Here’s What You Can Do

As the temperatures drop, the last thing you want is for your furnace to stop working, leaving your home chilly and uncomfortable. At Above All Heating and Air, we understand how frustrating it can be when your furnace is not igniting. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling in the experts. Let’s walk through some common reasons and what you can do to get your furnace up and running.

What to Do When Your Furnace Is Not Igniting

Check Your Thermostat Settings

One of the most overlooked problems is the thermostat settings. Before diving into more complex issues, make sure the thermostat is set to “heat” and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If the thermostat’s batteries are low, it may not send the correct signals to the furnace, causing it not to ignite.

If your thermostat is programmable or smart, double-check that the programming hasn’t overridden your manual settings. Also, ensure that the fan is set to “auto” so it turns on only when the furnace is running.

Inspect the Power Supply

If the furnace is not igniting, it could be due to a power issue. Check that your furnace’s power switch is turned on (it’s often located near the furnace itself). Additionally, inspect the circuit breaker to see if the furnace tripped the breaker. If this happens frequently, it may indicate a more significant electrical problem.

At Above All Heating and Air, we advise exercising caution when dealing with electrical issues. If you suspect a larger problem, calling a professional is always the safest option.

Common Reasons for Furnace Not Igniting

Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

A simple but common cause for a furnace not igniting is a clogged or dirty air filter. Air filters trap dust, dirt, and debris, but over time, they can become so clogged that air cannot properly flow into the furnace. When this happens, the furnace may overheat or fail to ignite as a safety measure.

We recommend changing your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on your usage and the type of filter. Clean air filters not only help your furnace ignite but also improve the overall efficiency of your heating system.

Pilot Light or Ignition Problems

For older furnaces with a pilot light, a common problem is the pilot light going out. If the pilot light is not staying lit, it could be due to a draft, a dirty flame sensor, or a faulty thermocouple. Meanwhile, furnaces with electronic ignitions may experience issues if the ignition sensor is dirty or damaged.

If your furnace’s ignition system is not working, it’s best to contact Above All Heating and Air to diagnose and fix the problem. Ignition issues can be tricky and often require professional expertise.

When to Call a Professional

Frequent Furnace Issues

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your furnace still won’t ignite, it’s time to call in a professional. Frequent problems with your furnace not igniting could signal a deeper issue with the internal components, gas supply, or electrical systems. Ignoring these issues can lead to larger problems and potential safety hazards.

How Above All Heating and Air Can Help

At Above All Heating and Air, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing furnace ignition issues. Our team of trained technicians will ensure your furnace is back in working order quickly and efficiently. Regular maintenance is key to preventing future problems, so we recommend scheduling annual service checks to keep your system running smoothly and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Conclusion

A furnace that isn’t igniting can be a real inconvenience, especially during cold weather. However, by following some simple troubleshooting steps—like checking your thermostat, inspecting the power supply, and changing your air filters—you might be able to resolve the issue. If the problem persists, Above All Heating and Air is here to help with expert furnace repair services. Don’t let a cold home ruin your day—give us a call, and we’ll get your furnace back to doing what it does best: keeping you warm and comfortable!